Italian cuisine is known for its simple yet delicious dishes that celebrate fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Today, we’re embracing the essence of Italian cooking with a delightful recipe for Tomato and Basil Panzanella. This classic Tuscan bread salad is a perfect combination of summery tomatoes, fragrant basil, crusty bread, and tangy vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite at any gathering or as a light meal on a warm day.
Title: Tomato And Basil Panzanella
Ingredients:
– 4 cups of ripe tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces
– 4 cups of day-old crusty bread, cubed
– 1/3 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large salad bowl, combine the tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, red bell pepper, and torn basil leaves.
2. Add the cubed bread to the bowl, making sure to mix it well with the vegetables.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the tomato mixture and bread. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the bread is well coated with the dressing.
5. Let the panzanella sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the bread to absorb the dressing.
6. Serve the Tomato and Basil Panzanella at room temperature, garnishing with a few extra basil leaves for a fresh and aromatic touch.
The Tomato and Basil Panzanella is a delightful dish that embodies the vibrant flavors of the Italian countryside. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a side dish, a light lunch, or a refreshing appetizer. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crunchy bread, and fragrant basil creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the sun-soaked hills of Tuscany. With minimal effort and a handful of simple ingredients, you can recreate this classic Italian favorite in your own kitchen. Buon appetito!
