Best-Ever Summer Panzanella
Ingredients
- 1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil
plus more for brushing
- 2 3/4"-thick slices country bread
- 1 medium zucchini or summer squash
halved
- 1/2 large red onion
cut into 4 wedges
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 clove garlic
minced
- 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
- 4 c. diced mixed tomatoes
such as heirloom, vine-ripened, cherry, and grape
- 1 c. cubed fresh mozzarella
- 1/2 c. packed fresh basil leaves
torn into bite-size pieces
- Balsamic glaze
for drizzling
Directions
- 1
Heat grill to medium-high and oil the grates. Brush bread, zucchini, and onion all over with oil and season with salt and pepper.
- 2
Grill bread and veggies until bread is lightly charred and toasted, 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, and zucchini and onion are lightly charred and crisp-tender, 3 minutes per side.
- 3
Transfer grilled bread, zucchini, and onion to a work surface. Rub garlic on both cut sides of the bread, then let everything cool slightly.
- 4
Cut bread into bite-size cubes, thinly slice zucchini crosswise, and chop onion.
- 5
In a large bowl, whisk together oil and the vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Add bread cubes, zucchini, onion, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Toss to combine and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Best-Ever Summer Panzanella
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 5 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, fresh side that effortlessly elevates any summer gathering? This Best-Ever Summer Panzanella is your answer, bringing together the season's finest ingredients in a quick 25-minute dish perfect for your next BBQ.
What makes this panzanella truly special is its focus on peak-season produce and the thoughtful combination of textures. You'll find yourself reaching for this recipe repeatedly, thanks to its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch.
Prepare for a delightful medley of flavors and textures in every bite. Expect juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes bursting with sweetness, contrasted by the sharp tang of red onion and a hint of garlic. The country bread cubes offer a wonderful chew and absorb the dressing beautifully, while fresh mozzarella adds a creamy richness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties all the elements together with a sweet and tangy finish. This light and refreshing salad is designed to be a standout side that feels both sophisticated and effortlessly easy.
Feel free to customize this panzanella to your pantry and preferences. Instead of zucchini, you can easily use summer squash for a similar tender texture. Experiment with different types of heirloom, cherry, or grape tomatoes to vary the color and sweetness. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the red onion wedges in a little cold water for a few minutes before dicing. While country bread provides excellent texture, any sturdy, crusty bread will work well.
This panzanella is the ultimate companion to grilled meats, fish, or simply as a light lunch on a warm day. Serve it family-style in a large bowl, allowing the colors to truly shine.