Summer Garden Bread Salad
This vibrant and refreshing Summer Garden Bread Salad is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the season. With its combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sweet cubanelle peppers, and fresh basil, this salad is a step beyond the classic panzanella. The addition of crusty bread crumbs, a splash of olive oil, and a touch of red onion makes this dish truly irresistible. Light yet satisfying, it’s a wonderful addition to any summer meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family barbecue, a picnic, or as a simple side dish, this salad is sure to become a regular favorite in your household. Best of all, it takes just 45 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect quick and easy option for busy days.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Plum tomatoes | 4 |
| Cucumber | 1 |
| Cubanelle pepper | 1 |
| Red onions | 3-4 thin slices |
| Fresh basil leaves | 5 leaves, chopped |
| Olive oil | 4 tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper to taste | – |
| Crusty bread cubes | 2-3 cups |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 94.3 kcal |
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 6.3mg |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4.2g |
| Protein | 1.5g |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing and chopping the fresh vegetables. Dice the plum tomatoes and cucumber, then slice the cubanelle peppers and red onion thinly. Place them into a large mixing bowl. Tear the basil leaves and add them to the mix for a fragrant burst of freshness. -
-
Season and Let Stand:
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the ingredients together to ensure everything is well coated. Let the salad rest for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the vegetables to release their juices and meld together, developing a more intense and harmonious flavor. -
Add the Bread and Olive Oil:
After the vegetables have had time to “juice up,” stir in the crusty bread cubes. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss everything together until the bread absorbs some of the delicious juices and the oil coats all the ingredients. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Give the salad one final toss and serve it immediately or let it sit for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to further marry together. This Summer Garden Bread Salad is a light, refreshing dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, cheeses, or as a standalone vegetarian delight.
Tips for the Perfect Salad:
- Bread: Use a day-old baguette or sourdough bread for the best texture. If you donβt have crusty bread, you can use any sturdy bread, but toast it lightly before adding it to the salad to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
- Flavor Variations: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra kick of acidity. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or mint for a twist on the classic basil.
- Meal Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a fresh mozzarella and tomato platter for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Enjoy the lightness and vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful garden-inspired bread salad!
