Mid summer italian bread salad –Summer is the perfect time to indulge in light, refreshing salads that burst with flavor and color. One such delight is the Mid-Summer Italian Bread Salad, a vibrant dish that incorporates the freshest ingredients to create a symphony of tastes. Imagine the sun shining, a gentle breeze flowing, and a table filled with this beautiful salad. Let’s dive into the details and get ready to create this summertime favorite!
Mid-Summer Italian Bread Salad
This salad is not just a side dish; it’s a delightful medley of textures and flavors that showcases the bounty of fresh produce. The crunchy bread combined with juicy vegetables and aromatic herbs will transport your taste buds to the heart of Italy!
Ingredients
- 4 cups crusty Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil. Toss to coat and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Chop the Vegetables: While the bread is toasting, prepare your vegetables. Chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix in the Bread: Once the bread is done, let it cool slightly before adding it to the bowl of vegetables.
- Add Herb and Cheese: Toss in the torn basil leaves and crumbled feta cheese to your mixing bowl. This will infuse the pasta with fresh flavors.
- Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad sit for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve at room temperature, and enjoy!
This Mid-Summer Italian Bread Salad is an ideal dish for any summer gathering or picnic. Plus, feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste! Embrace the season and savor every single bite!