Panzanella-style Italian Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale Italian or French bread, cubed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 English cucumber, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer
3. Bake bread cubes for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp
4. In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, cubed cucumber, and chopped basil and parsley
5. In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar until well combined
6. Pour vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss well to coat
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste
8. Let the salad sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the vinaigrette
9. Serve immediately garnished with additional basil and parsley if desired

Verdict:

Panzanella-style Italian salad is the perfect summer salad that combines the freshness of vegetables with the crunchiness of toasted bread. The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes and tangy red onion with the creamy cucumber and fresh herbs creates a delicious flavor profile. The garlic vinaigrette ties everything together to create a mouthwatering dish.

Serving Suggestions:

This salad is perfect on its own as a light lunch or dinner. However, it also pairs well as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. Serve it with a glass of chilled white wine to complete the Mediterranean experience.