Description
A fresh, vibrant Italian salad that transforms simple ingredients into a standout dish. This Classic Panzanella with Mozzarella is perfect as a quick lunch, easy dinner, or healthy side. With juicy tomatoes, crispy bread, creamy mozzarella, and a zesty dressing, it’s one of those easy recipes and food ideas you’ll keep coming back to for effortless flavor.
Ingredients
4 cups crusty bread cubes
3 cups ripe tomatoes chopped
8 oz fresh mozzarella torn
1 small red onion thinly sliced
1 medium cucumber chopped
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves torn
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and toast bread cubes for 10–15 minutes until golden.
2. Chop tomatoes, cucumber, and slice onion thinly.
3. Tear mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
4. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper to make dressing.
5. Combine bread, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion in a large bowl.
6. Add mozzarella and basil, gently tossing.
7. Pour dressing over and toss lightly to coat.
8. Let sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb flavors.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
10. Serve at room temperature and enjoy.
Notes
Use day-old bread for best texture and flavor absorption.
Let the salad rest before serving to enhance taste.
Use high-quality olive oil and ripe tomatoes for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 25mg