Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy with this Panzanella Salad recipe, a delightful variation of the traditional tomato salad. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes, thanks to the use of multi-colored tomatoes, but also a gourmet experience that has won the hearts of many families, including mine. The star of the show? The homemade croutons that add a crunchy texture to the salad.
Prepare the croutons first by heating a bit of olive oil in a pan, adding the bread cut into larger cubes, and sprinkling with a little salt.
Stir the bread cubes periodically to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. Once crispy and golden, drizzle a bit more olive oil, and remove from heat to cool.
Chop the tomatoes into pieces, ensuring they are not too small to maintain their juicy texture.
Layer the sliced cucumbers over the tomatoes.
Add the thinly sliced red onion and a sprig of finely chopped basil for a burst of freshness.
Right before serving, incorporate the croutons, drizzle an additional 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, season with salt to taste, and give it a good mix to combine the flavors.
For an elegant presentation, garnish with mozzarella and cherry tomatoes, and don't forget to place a sprig of basil on the plate for an extra touch of green.
Enjoy this Panzanella Salad immediately for the best combination of flavors and textures.
Bon Appétit!