The Panzanella recipe is a classic Italian bread salad that combines stale bread with fresh, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and fragrant basil. Tossed in a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and red wine vinegar, this dish offers a refreshing blend of textures and flavors. Traditionally from Tuscany, Panzanella is a great way to repurpose leftover bread and enjoy seasonal produce. It’s perfect for warm weather meals, served as a light lunch or a side dish. With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, this Panzanella recipe is both flavorful and easy to make, ideal for any occasion.

Why is it Called Panzanella?
The word “Panzanella” is thought to have originated from the Italian words “pane” (bread) and “zanella” (a deep bowl or plate). Historically, it was a peasant dish, created to avoid wasting old bread by soaking it in water and mixing it with garden vegetables. Over time, the dish evolved into what we know today—a colorful salad of toasted bread, tomatoes, onions, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and vinegar.

How Should Panzanella Taste?
A well-made Panzanella recipe offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The bread should be slightly crisp on the outside but absorbent enough to soak up the vinaigrette without becoming soggy. The tomatoes and cucumbers add juiciness, while red onions and basil provide aromatic freshness. The olive oil and vinegar dressing binds everything together, creating a dish that is tangy, savory, and refreshing.

What Makes Panzanella Recipe Super Yummy?
The key to a delicious Panzanella recipe lies in the quality of ingredients. Use ripe, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and high-quality olive oil to elevate the flavors. Properly toasting the bread ensures it maintains some crispiness while absorbing the vinaigrette. Additionally, letting the salad rest for a few minutes before serving helps the ingredients meld, creating an even more flavorful dish.

Panzanella Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- 3 cups stale bread (cubed)
- 2 large tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cucumber (sliced)
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup basil leaves (torn)
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Toast the BreadIf the bread isn’t stale, toast the bread cubes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
- Step 2: Prepare the VegetablesWhile the bread cools, slice the tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Tear the basil leaves into small pieces for freshness.
- Step 3: Make the DressingIn a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- Step 4: Combine EverythingIn a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Step 5: Let it RestAllow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes to let the bread absorb the flavors.
- Step 6: Garnish and ServeTop with fresh basil and serve at room temperature.
Notes
- Cutting the Vegetables: For the best presentation and texture, cut the tomatoes into even chunks, and slice the cucumbers thinly for a crisp bite. Use a sharp knife to thinly slice the onions, ensuring they blend smoothly with the salad.
- Bread Preparation: If your bread isn’t stale, lightly toasting it in the oven enhances its crunch and prevents it from becoming too soggy.
- Tossing the Salad: Gently toss the vegetables and bread together to avoid crushing the ingredients, especially the tomatoes. This will help maintain the salad’s structure and visual appeal.
- Resting Time: Allow the salad to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, giving the bread time to absorb the dressing for the best flavor.
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Conclusion
The Panzanella recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh vegetables and give stale bread a second life. Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or a refreshing summer dinner, this Italian bread salad is a crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a must-try for anyone who appreciates wholesome, flavorful food.