Description
This Peach Panzanella Salad is a vibrant, refreshing twist on the classic Italian bread salad. Featuring juicy ripe peaches, crunchy toasted crusty bread, fresh basil, tangy cherry tomatoes, sweet red onions, and creamy mozzarella balls, all tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light summer meal or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 3 medium ripe peaches, pitted and sliced into wedges
- 4 cups crusty bread, cubed
- 1 cup fresh basil, torn into pieces
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided: 1 tablespoon for bread, 2 tablespoons for dressing)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed bread evenly on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare Vegetables: While the bread is baking, thinly slice the red onion and halve the cherry tomatoes. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Slice Peaches: Cut the ripe peaches into wedges and set aside.
- Combine Fruits and Herbs: Add the sliced peaches and torn basil leaves to the bowl with the onions and tomatoes. Then gently toss in the mozzarella balls.
- Make Dressing and Toss: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
- Rest the Salad: Allow the salad to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld and the bread absorbs some of the dressing and juices.
- Serve: Serve the peach panzanella salad at room temperature and enjoy a fresh, flavorful dish.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale crusty bread for better texture when toasted.
- You can substitute mozzarella balls with fresh burrata or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a slight kick if desired.
- Make sure peaches are ripe and sweet to balance the tangy dressing.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread.
