Description
Classic Panzanella with Mozzarella is a fresh and vibrant Italian bread salad packed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy mozzarella, and toasted rustic bread tossed in a flavorful homemade dressing. This easy recipe is perfect for quick lunch ideas, healthy dinner ideas, summer gatherings, and light Mediterranean-inspired meals. The balance of fresh vegetables, herbs, and rich mozzarella creates a refreshing dish that feels hearty and satisfying at the same time. Whether you are searching for easy food ideas, healthy salad recipes, or a colorful side dish for grilled meals, this Classic Panzanella with Mozzarella delivers incredible flavor with simple ingredients and minimal cooking.
Ingredients
4 cups crusty Italian bread cubes
2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 cup fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces
1 cucumber, sliced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and toast for about 10 minutes until golden and crisp.
2. Chop the tomatoes into medium-sized pieces and slice the cucumber and red onion thinly. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Tear the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces and add it to the vegetables.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Add the toasted bread cubes to the bowl with the vegetables and mozzarella.
6. Pour the dressing evenly over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are coated.
7. Tear the fresh basil leaves and mix them into the salad.
8. Let the salad rest for 10 to 15 minutes so the bread can absorb the dressing and tomato juices.
9. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before serving if desired.
10. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Use day-old crusty bread for the best texture and flavor absorption.
Add the basil just before serving to keep it fresh and aromatic.
Allow the salad to rest briefly before serving so the flavors blend perfectly without making the bread too soft.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed Salad
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: classic panzanella with mozzarella, italian salad recipe, easy salad recipe, healthy lunch ideas, mediterranean salad, tomato mozzarella salad, easy dinner ideas, fresh summer salad