Panzanella, a traditional Italian bread salad, embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine through its vibrant flavors and textures. This refreshing dish is perfect for warm weather, showcasing ripe vegetables, fragrant herbs, and crusty bread. Enhance your dining experience with this delightful recipe featuring olives and feta cheese, which adds a savory twist to the classic salad.
Panzanella (Italian Bread Salad) with Olives and Feta
Indulge in the refreshing taste of this panzanella salad, where the combination of fresh vegetables and hearty bread creates a symphony of flavors. The addition of olives and feta elevates the dish, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of day-old crusty bread, cut into cubes
- 2 cups of ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup of cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup of fresh basil leaves, torn
- ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the bread. If it’s not already stale, you can toast the bread cubes in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until lightly golden and crispy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, halved olives, crumbled feta cheese, and torn basil leaves.
- Add the toasted bread cubes to the vegetable mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Let the salad sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors!
This panzanella with olives and feta is not only a visually appealing dish but also a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Italian cuisine. Perfect for entertaining guests or savoring a quiet evening at home, it leaves a lasting impression with its incredible taste.