Looking for a delicious and vibrant dish to impress your guests at the next party? Look no further than this Party Perfect Panzanella recipe! This classic Italian bread salad is a colorful and flavorful addition to any gathering, combining fresh vegetables, crusty bread, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor get-together, this Panzanella is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 small loaf of crusty Italian bread, cubed
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
For the vinaigrette:
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cubed Italian bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, basil leaves, and Kalamata olives.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
4. Add the toasted bread cubes to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together until well combined.
5. Allow the Panzanella to sit for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the Party Perfect Panzanella in a large salad bowl or on a platter, garnished with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch.
This Panzanella recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it to your liking by adding other ingredients such as grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella cheese, or roasted vegetables. You can also adjust the seasoning in the vinaigrette to suit your taste preferences – a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of oregano can add a different dimension to the dish.
Preparing this Panzanella ahead of time is a great option for busy hosts. You can assemble the salad a few hours before the party and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Just remember to give it a quick toss before serving to freshen it up.
In conclusion, this Party Perfect Panzanella is a delightful dish that will add a burst of color and flavor to any party spread. With its mix of textures and tastes, it’s a surefire way to impress your guests and elevate your hosting game. So, next time you’re planning a gathering, consider adding this classic Italian salad to your menu for a guaranteed hit!
