Panzanella Salad with Bread, Tomatoes, and Basil

Panzanella Salad is a rustic Italian classic that beautifully transforms simple, humble ingredients into something vibrant and unforgettable. Originating in Tuscany, this salad was traditionally a way to use up stale bread, pairing it with ripe summer tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a bright olive oil–vinegar dressing.

What makes Panzanella special is its contrast of textures—chewy, soaked bread mingling with juicy tomatoes and crisp vegetables—along with fresh, herbaceous flavors. It’s a celebration of seasonal produce and simplicity, proving that when ingredients are good, very little needs to be done to make them shine. Perfect for warm weather, this salad is refreshing, filling, and full of Italian charm.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s effortlessly fresh, resourceful, and deeply satisfying. It turns day-old bread into the star of the dish and highlights the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes.

The flavors improve as the salad rests, making it ideal for relaxed meals and gatherings. It’s also endlessly adaptable and always feels light yet comforting.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Authentic taste of Italian summer cooking
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients
• Perfect way to use stale or leftover bread
• Refreshing yet filling
• Naturally vegan and easy to customize

Recipe Overview

• Course: Salad / Side Dish / Light Main
• Cuisine: Italian (Tuscan)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for toasting bread, optional)
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (approx.): 280 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 cups day-old rustic bread, torn into chunks
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup cucumber, sliced (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

For the Dressing

• 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Cooking Directions (Quick Method)

1. Toast bread lightly (optional).
2. Combine tomatoes, onion, cucumber, and basil.
3. Add bread to vegetables.
4. Toss with olive oil and vinegar.
5. Rest briefly and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Bread: Tear bread into bite-sized pieces. Toast lightly in the oven or pan if bread is very soft.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Chop tomatoes, slice onion thinly, and prepare cucumber if using.
3. Combine Salad: In a large bowl, add tomatoes, onion, cucumber, and basil.
4. Add Bread: Add bread pieces to the bowl and gently toss.
5. Dress: Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar evenly over the salad.
6. Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Rest: Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes so bread absorbs the juices.
8. Final Toss: Gently toss again before serving.

How to Serve

Serve Panzanella at room temperature for the best flavor. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a summer picnic spread. Enjoy it as a light main course or a hearty side dish.

Recipe Tips

• Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for best flavor
• Day-old or stale bread works best
• Tear basil by hand to avoid bruising
• Don’t overdress—simple is key

Variations

1. Classic Tuscan Panzanella

Add celery and omit cucumber for a traditional version.

2. Mozzarella Panzanella

Add fresh mozzarella or burrata for extra richness.

3. Grilled Vegetable Panzanella

Add grilled zucchini, peppers, or eggplant.

4. Protein-Enhanced Salad

Add grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for a fuller meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store for up to 1 day; best eaten fresh.
• Freezer: Not suitable for freezing.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prep components separately and assemble just before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Baking tray or pan (for toasting bread)

Conclusion

Panzanella Salad with Bread, Tomatoes, and Basil is a timeless Italian recipe that celebrates simplicity, seasonality, and flavor. With its juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and perfectly soaked bread, it’s a dish that feels both rustic and refreshing. Whether enjoyed as a summer side or a light main, this salad is a must-try that brings the essence of Italy straight to your table.