Description
Peach Panzanella Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian bread salad, featuring toasted rustic bread combined with juicy ripe peaches, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh basil, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This vibrant summer salad is perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups cubed rustic bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or baguette)
- 3 ripe peaches (sliced into wedges)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cucumber (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
- Optional: 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls or sliced prosciutto
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the rustic bread into cubes and spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Toast the bread in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, to add a perfect crunch to your salad.
- Prepare the Fresh Ingredients: While the bread is toasting, slice the ripe peaches into wedges, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the cucumber and red onion. Having these fresh components ready will make assembly smooth and efficient.
- Combine Salad Components: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the toasted bread cubes, peach wedges, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and torn fresh basil leaves. If you choose, add fresh mozzarella balls or sliced prosciutto for an extra savory touch.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well emulsified and flavorful.
- Toss the Salad with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss everything together until the dressing coats all ingredients evenly without breaking the delicate fruit and bread.
- Let the Flavors Meld: Allow the salad to rest at room temperature for about 5 minutes before serving. This step helps the bread soak up the dressing and the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Notes
- For extra texture and flavor, consider adding toasted nuts such as walnuts or pine nuts.
- The rustic bread is key for absorbing the dressing without becoming overly soggy; day-old bread works best.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by varying the amount of honey to complement the peaches.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be kept refrigerated for up to 1 day; toast bread fresh before serving if needed.
- For a vegan option, omit mozzarella and prosciutto and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
