Bread Salad

Bread Salad Recipe with Plum Tomatoes, Basil, and Olive Oil

Region / culture: Italy, South Africa | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Bread Salad, also known as Panzanella in some cultures, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the hearty texture of bread with the fresh flavors of vegetables and herbs. This recipe takes a simple approach to creating a delicious and satisfying meal or side dish that is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a light dinner. The combination of crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, and a flavorful dressing makes this salad a delightful experience for the palate.

History

The origins of Bread Salad can be traced back to the Tuscany region of Italy, where it was traditionally made with stale bread, onions, tomatoes, and basil, dressed with olive oil and vinegar. It was a peasant dish, created out of necessity to use up leftover bread and fresh produce from the garden. Over time, the recipe has evolved and spread across different cultures, incorporating various ingredients and dressings but always maintaining its essence of simplicity and resourcefulness.

Ingredients

1 loaf crusty bread, torn into bite-size pieces
2 lb (907 g) plum tomatoes, cut into chunks
0.25 cup chopped fresh basil

For the dressing

0.5 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic
salt
0.25 tsp dried rosemary
1 dash hot pepper flakes
4 tbsp white wine vinegar

How to prepare

Combine bread, tomatoes, and basil in a large bowl.
In a food processor with a metal blade, chop garlic and salt. Add rosemary, hot pepper flakes, and vinegar.
Add olive oil in a stream to emulsify.
Toss bread mixture with dressing.
Allow to stand for at least 20 minutes so the bread can absorb the dressing.

Variations

There are many ways to vary this Bread Salad recipe to suit your taste or make use of what you have on hand. Consider adding cucumbers, red onions, capers, or olives for additional flavors and textures. For a more substantial salad, include mozzarella balls, grilled chicken, or canned tuna.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best texture and flavor for your Bread Salad, use a loaf of high-quality, crusty bread that can absorb the dressing without becoming too soggy. If your bread is very fresh, you can toast it lightly to enhance its texture. When it comes to tomatoes, choose ripe, flavorful varieties for the best taste. Letting the salad sit for at least 20 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the dressing, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dish.

Serving Suggestions

Bread Salad can be served as a standalone meal for a light lunch or dinner, or as a side dish to complement grilled meats or fish. It is best enjoyed outdoors on a warm day, making it a perfect addition to summer barbecues and picnics.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in making Bread Salad is allowing the bread to absorb the dressing without becoming too soggy. This can be achieved by using crusty bread and letting the salad sit for at least 20 minutes before serving. For an added flavor dimension, you can grill the bread before tearing it into pieces for the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh basil, you can use other fresh herbs like parsley or mint. In place of white wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or lemon juice can be used for the dressing. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread.

Make Ahead Tips

Bread Salad is best enjoyed when freshly made, but you can prepare the components ahead of time. Chop the tomatoes and make the dressing in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Combine with the bread and basil just before serving to maintain the best texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Bread Salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and basil. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and a sprinkle of coarse salt and freshly ground pepper just before serving for an added touch of flavor and elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Bread Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of wines, particularly light, crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the fresh flavors of the salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Bread Salad is best enjoyed the day it is made, as the bread will continue to absorb the dressing and may become too soft. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. It is not recommended to reheat Bread Salad, as it is intended to be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Bread Salad contains approximately 250-300 calories, making it a relatively light yet satisfying dish. The majority of the calories come from the carbohydrates in the bread and the fats in the olive oil.

Carbohydrates

This Bread Salad recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from the bread. A serving of this salad provides approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, which supply energy to the body. The tomatoes and basil also contribute a small amount of carbohydrates, along with dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

Fats

The primary source of fats in this recipe comes from the extra virgin olive oil used in the dressing. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats. A serving of Bread Salad contains about 10-15 grams of fat, depending on the amount of dressing used. It's important to use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor and health benefits.

Proteins

Bread Salad is not a high-protein dish, but it does provide a modest amount of protein from the bread and a small contribution from the tomatoes. A serving of this salad contains approximately 5-7 grams of protein. For a higher protein meal, consider adding cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, or grilled chicken to the salad.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the tomatoes and fresh basil. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Basil contributes vitamins A and K, along with calcium and iron. The olive oil in the dressing also provides vitamin E and K.

Alergens

The main allergen present in this recipe is gluten, found in the bread. Individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should use gluten-free bread as a substitute. Additionally, the recipe contains garlic, which some individuals may be sensitive to.

Summary

Overall, Bread Salad is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and a modest amount of protein. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the fresh vegetables and olive oil. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences.

Summary

Bread Salad is a versatile, flavorful, and nutritious dish that embodies the essence of simplicity and resourcefulness. With its combination of crusty bread, ripe tomatoes, and a vibrant dressing, it offers a delightful eating experience that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Whether served as a light meal or a side dish, Bread Salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Bread Salad. It was a warm summer day, much like today, and I was wandering through the bustling streets of a small Italian village. The aroma of fresh bread and ripe tomatoes filled the air, drawing me towards a quaint little cafe tucked away in a corner.

As I entered the cafe, I was greeted by the sight of an elderly woman behind the counter, busy slicing crusty bread and tossing it with vibrant vegetables. The colors and textures of her creations were simply mesmerizing, and I couldn't resist asking her what she was making. With a warm smile, she replied, "Bread Salad, my dear. A simple yet delicious dish that has been passed down through generations in my family."

Intrigued by her words, I watched as she deftly mixed together chunks of bread, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy olives, drizzling them with olive oil and vinegar. The final touch was a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper, tying all the flavors together in perfect harmony. The woman offered me a taste of her creation, and with the first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

I begged her for the recipe, eager to recreate the magic of that moment in my own kitchen. She smiled knowingly and handed me a faded piece of parchment, covered in scribbled notes and splatters of tomato juice. As I thanked her profusely and made my way back home, I couldn't wait to try my hand at making Bread Salad for myself.

Back in my cozy kitchen, I gathered the ingredients and carefully followed the instructions written on the parchment. I chopped the tomatoes, tore the bread into bite-sized pieces, and assembled everything in a large bowl. As I drizzled the olive oil and vinegar over the salad, I could almost hear the sounds of the bustling Italian village once again.

The moment of truth arrived as I took my first bite of the Bread Salad I had prepared. The flavors exploded in my mouth, each ingredient complementing the others perfectly. The crunch of the bread, the juiciness of the tomatoes, the freshness of the basil – it was a symphony of tastes and textures that transported me back to that small cafe in Italy.

Over the years, I have refined and perfected the recipe for Bread Salad, adding my own twists and variations to suit my taste. Sometimes I toss in some grilled vegetables or sprinkle feta cheese on top. Other times, I experiment with different herbs and spices to create new flavor combinations. But no matter how I choose to make it, Bread Salad always remains a beloved staple in my kitchen.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the kind woman in that Italian village who shared her family's tradition with me. Through her simple act of generosity, she not only introduced me to a delicious dish but also opened my eyes to the beauty of food and the stories it can tell.

And so, whenever I make Bread Salad, I do so with a heart full of memories and a spirit of adventure, knowing that each bite carries with it a piece of that warm summer day in Italy. It is a dish that transcends borders and time, connecting me to a world of flavors and experiences that will forever hold a special place in my heart.