Panzanella Salad
About This Course
Dive into the rustic charm of Tuscany with this vibrant bread-and-tomato salad. You’ll master the art of transforming stale bread into flavor-packed croutons, balancing juicy heirloom tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, and layering fresh herbs to create a refreshing, hearty dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Learning Objectives
How to choose and prep day-old bread for optimal texture
Techniques for toasting or pan-frying bread cubes so they stay crisp yet absorb dressing
Selecting and handling peak-season tomatoes and cucumbers for maximum juiciness
Crafting a harmonious vinaigrette of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and seasonings
Layering ingredients and timing the rest period to meld flavors without sogginess
Material Includes
- Printable recipe card with ingredient ratios and timing tips
- Guide to selecting heirloom tomatoes and complementary produce
- Vinaigrette formula worksheet for practice with different oils and acids
- Access to a community forum for troubleshooting and recipe variations
Requirements
- 1. Ingredients (requirements):
- Bread:
- 200–250 g (about 7–9 oz) of stale ciabatta or Italian loaf, cut into cubes.
- Vegetables:
- 2–3 large ripe tomatoes (such as Roma or beefsteak), cut into large chunks or wedges.
- 1 cucumber (e.g., English cucumber), peeled if preferred, sliced into rounds or half-moons.
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced into half-rings.
- Optional: 1–2 sweet bell peppers (red or yellow), cut into strips.
- Herbs:
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped.
- Olive Oil & Dressing:
- 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (plus a little extra for drizzling).
- 1½ tablespoons red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar).
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- Optional Extras (choose any):
- 50 g (about 2 oz) fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces.
- A few capers or green olives, pitted and halved.
Target Audience
- Home cooks eager to utilize leftover bread in creative ways
- Fans of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine
- Entertainers seeking colorful, make-ahead salads for al fresco dining
- Chefs and caterers looking to add a rustic salad to their menu
Curriculum
5 Lessons3h 35m