Panzanella
AI-generated image
Vegan Italian

Panzanella

A Tuscan bread salad of crisp-edged bread, ripe tomatoes, cucumber, basil, and red onion, brought together with a bright red wine vinaigrette. The bread softens at the center while keeping enough chew to carry the juices.

37 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Heat the oven to 200°C. Toss the bread cubes with 30 ml of the olive oil and 2 g of the salt, then spread them on a baking sheet in one layer.
2
Bake the bread for 10–12 minutes, turning once, until the edges are golden and crisp while the centers remain slightly chewy. Cool for 5 minutes.
Golden toasted bread cubes cooling on a baking sheet AI-generated image
3
Place the tomatoes in a large bowl with the remaining salt and let them stand for 10 minutes so they release their juices. Add the cucumber, red onion, and basil.
4
Whisk the red wine vinegar, grated garlic, black pepper, and remaining olive oil in a small bowl until lightly emulsified.
5
Add the cooled bread and dressing to the tomato mixture. Toss thoroughly until the bread is coated with tomato juices and vinaigrette, then rest for 15 minutes at room temperature.
Panzanella with toasted bread, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil AI-generated image
6
Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or vinegar. Serve at room temperature while the bread is tender but still pleasantly textured.

Why this recipe works

Toasting the bread gives it a sturdy crust and a tender center, while ripe tomato juice, vinegar, and olive oil create a dressing that seasons every piece without making the salad immediately soggy.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. The bread will continue to soften, so the salad is best on the day it is made.

How to reheat it

Do not reheat. Bring refrigerated leftovers to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition / serving

371kcal
9.16 gprotein
48.40 gcarbs
16.35 gfat
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Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 17 Aug 2026 · updated 17 Aug 2026