Summer Panzanella Salad Recipe with Pesto Vinaigrette

Summer Panzanella Salad Recipe with Pesto Vinaigrette

A refreshing and vibrant summer delight, Panzanella Salad with Pesto Vinaigrette combines the wholesome goodness of vegetables with the tangy, herbaceous punch of homemade pesto. Packed with fresh flavors, this salad is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a nutritious choice, boasting a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants. At approximately 250 calories per serving, it’s a light yet satisfying meal perfect for warm days.

Servings and Preparation Time

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups crusty bread cubes (day-old works best)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

For the Pesto Vinaigrette:

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread

1. Toast the bread cubes in a large skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Let them cool.

2. Make the Pesto Vinaigrette

1. In a blender, combine basil leaves, olive oil, white wine vinegar, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.
2. Pour the pesto vinaigrette over the mixture and toss gently until everything is coated.

4. Garnish and Serve

1. Add torn basil leaves on top for an extra burst of freshness. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Tips and Tricks

• Bread Selection: Day-old bread absorbs the vinaigrette better without becoming soggy. A crusty baguette or sourdough works wonders.
• Customizations: For added protein, consider including grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Storage: If not serving immediately, keep the vinaigrette separate and mix it in just before eating to maintain the salad’s crispness.

Nutritional Highlights

This salad is an excellent source of fiber and essential vitamins such as A, C, and K. The Pesto Vinaigrette provides healthy fats, making it a balanced and flavorful choice for summer meals.

For instance, experiment with zucchini, olives, or even mozzarella for a twist on the classic recipe.

Enjoy this Summer Panzanella Salad as a refreshing main dish or a colorful side for your next cookout!