25+ Authentic Italian Tomato Bread Salad Recipes for Light Dining

Italian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and one of the best ways to celebrate this culinary tradition is through the classic tomato bread salad, known as panzanella.

This delightful dish combines ripe, juicy tomatoes with crusty bread, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Whether you’re using stale bread from yesterday’s dinner or fresh produce from the garden, tomato bread salads are an excellent way to reduce waste while savoring the essence of summer.

In this article, we’ve compiled over 25 Italian tomato bread salad recipes that range from traditional favorites to innovative twists, perfect for any occasion.

Each recipe showcases the simplicity and deliciousness of Italian cooking, allowing you to impress your family and friends with minimal effort.

Let’s dive into this culinary journey and discover how to elevate your meals with these delightful salads!

25+ Authentic Italian Tomato Bread Salad Recipes for Light Dining

As you can see, Italian tomato bread salads offer endless possibilities for creativity and flavor.

Whether you prefer the classic panzanella or want to experiment with new ingredients like avocados or capers, these salads are sure to please your palate.

Perfect as a light meal, a side dish, or a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats, these recipes make use of seasonal produce and leftover bread, making them both practical and delicious.

We hope you enjoy trying out these 25+ Italian tomato bread salad recipes in your kitchen, embracing the vibrant flavors of Italy while making the most of your ingredients.

Panzanella Salad

Panzanella is a classic Tuscan salad that celebrates ripe tomatoes and stale bread, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. This salad is perfect for using up leftover bread and showcases the vibrant flavors of summer. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant basil, all dressed in a simple vinaigrette, creates a delightful medley that can be served as a side or main dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale Italian bread, cut into cubes
• 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, red onion, and torn basil leaves.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Add the stale bread cubes to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the bread absorbs the juices from the vegetables and dressing.
4. Let the salad sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Panzanella salad is a true celebration of summer, marrying simple ingredients to create a flavorful dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The stale bread becomes a wonderful vehicle for the juicy tomatoes and crisp vegetables, making every bite a burst of freshness. Whether served as a side dish for grilled meats or as a light lunch, Panzanella is versatile and will impress your guests with its rustic charm.

Caprese Bread Salad

This Caprese bread salad takes the traditional Caprese salad and adds a delightful twist with the addition of crusty bread. The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, enhanced by the rustic texture of bread, creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for warm days. Drizzled with balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also offers a burst of classic Italian flavors in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups ciabatta or baguette, cut into cubes
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves.
3. Once the bread cubes are toasted, add them to the bowl with the tomatoes and mozzarella.
4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze and olive oil over the salad, then season with salt and pepper. Gently toss to combine, allowing the bread to soak up the flavors.
5. Serve immediately or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb some of the juices.

This Caprese bread salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, capturing the essence of Italy in every bite. The creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil create a classic combination that is enhanced by the crunchy bread. This dish is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a light main course. It’s not only delicious but also a stunning centerpiece for your summer dining table, showcasing the simplicity and beauty of Italian cuisine.

Mediterranean Tomato Bread Salad

This Mediterranean tomato bread salad offers a fusion of flavors that pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean region. Featuring olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs alongside ripe tomatoes and bread, this salad is a hearty and satisfying option. With a zesty lemon dressing, it provides a refreshing taste that’s perfect for a light lunch or as an accompaniment to grilled meats and seafood.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups rustic bread, cut into cubes
• 3 large tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, toast the bread cubes over medium heat until golden and crunchy, about 5-7 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, red onion, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Add the toasted bread cubes to the vegetable mixture and drizzle the dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the bread is well coated.
5. Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.

This Mediterranean tomato bread salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that embodies the flavors of the region. The combination of salty feta, briny olives, and fresh herbs complements the juicy tomatoes perfectly, while the toasted bread adds a delightful crunch. This salad is not only visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. It’s a celebration of Mediterranean ingredients, showcasing how simple components can come together to create something truly special.

Tuscan Tomato and Bread Salad

This Tuscan tomato and bread salad, also known as “Panzanella,” is a rustic dish that captures the essence of Italian summer. Using simple, high-quality ingredients, this salad combines ripe tomatoes, crusty bread, and fresh herbs to create a vibrant dish that is both hearty and refreshing. Perfect for picnics or as a side for grilled meats, this salad embodies the spirit of Italian cuisine with its focus on fresh, seasonal produce.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale Tuscan bread, torn into pieces
• 5 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the torn bread in a large bowl and add the chopped tomatoes, sliced onion, diced cucumber, and torn basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, ensuring the bread is well coated with the juices from the tomatoes.
4. Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the dressing before serving.

This Tuscan tomato and bread salad is a celebration of Italy’s culinary heritage, showcasing how simple ingredients can create a flavorful and satisfying dish. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and fragrant basil paired with the soaked bread makes for a delightful texture and taste experience. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal, this salad is sure to impress and transport your taste buds to the sunny streets of Tuscany.

Italian Ciabatta Tomato Salad

This Italian ciabatta tomato salad combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with the heartiness of ciabatta bread. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this dish is both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying. The blend of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil is complemented by the crusty bread, creating a wonderful balance of textures and flavors that is perfect for a summer meal or a light appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups ciabatta bread, cut into cubes
• 2 cups heirloom tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the ciabatta cubes on a baking sheet and toast for about 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves.
3. Add the toasted ciabatta to the bowl and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Toss gently to combine, allowing the bread to soak up the flavors. Serve immediately or let it sit for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.

The Italian ciabatta tomato salad is a delightful twist on traditional Italian flavors, combining the creaminess of mozzarella with the fresh taste of heirloom tomatoes and aromatic basil. The toasted ciabatta adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful experience. This salad is versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a light main course, perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. Enjoy the tastes of Italy in your home with this easy-to-make dish!

Sicilian Bread and Tomato Salad

Sicilian bread and tomato salad, or “Pane e Pomodoro,” is a traditional dish that highlights the flavors of Sicily, showcasing the region’s love for fresh ingredients. This salad is simple yet deeply flavorful, featuring ripe tomatoes, crusty bread, and aromatic herbs, all drizzled with high-quality olive oil. It’s an ideal dish for warm weather, making it a perfect complement to barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch on its own.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale bread, torn into pieces
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and basil.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the torn bread to the bowl with the tomato mixture, then pour the dressing over the top.
4. Toss gently to combine, making sure the bread absorbs the juices from the tomatoes and dressing.
5. Allow the salad to sit for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature to enhance the flavors before serving.

Sicilian bread and tomato salad is a rustic and comforting dish that exemplifies the simplicity of Italian cuisine. The harmonious blend of ripe tomatoes and crusty bread, along with the fresh basil and zesty dressing, creates a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. It’s an excellent way to celebrate summer produce, making it perfect for any occasion—from a family meal to a festive gathering. With its vibrant flavors and textures, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Herbed Tomato and Bread Salad

This herbed tomato and bread salad is a refreshing dish that bursts with flavor from fresh herbs and juicy tomatoes. The addition of various herbs elevates the dish, creating a fragrant and colorful salad that’s perfect for summer gatherings. This salad is not only a great way to use up stale bread but also a wonderful way to showcase the bounty of summer produce. Serve it as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish at your next barbecue.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups day-old bread (preferably sourdough), cut into cubes
• 5 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, toast the bread cubes over medium heat until golden and crunchy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, parsley, dill, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Add the toasted bread cubes to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine.
5. Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the flavors before serving.

The herbed tomato and bread salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the fresh produce of summer. The combination of herbs adds depth and complexity, making each bite a delightful experience. The crusty bread soaks up the juices from the tomatoes and dressing, creating a satisfying texture that perfectly complements the salad’s freshness. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also a beautiful addition to any table, ideal for picnics, barbecues, or light summer meals.

Roasted Vegetable and Tomato Bread Salad

This roasted vegetable and tomato bread salad brings together the rich flavors of roasted vegetables with the freshness of ripe tomatoes. The toasty bread acts as a hearty base, absorbing the flavors of the vegetables and the dressing. This salad is perfect for using up leftover roasted vegetables and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for any season.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups day-old bread, cut into cubes
• 2 cups assorted roasted vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant)
• 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for about 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, diced tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Once the bread is toasted, add it to the vegetable mixture.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving.

This roasted vegetable and tomato bread salad is a hearty and flavorful dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables paired with juicy tomatoes. The crumbled feta adds a delightful creaminess, while the toasted bread provides a satisfying crunch. Perfect for meal prep or as a side dish for grilled meats, this salad is versatile and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of the season while minimizing food waste, showcasing how leftovers can be transformed into something special.

Mediterranean Chickpea and Tomato Bread Salad

This Mediterranean chickpea and tomato bread salad is a nutritious and satisfying dish that combines protein-packed chickpeas with fresh tomatoes and a crunchy bread base. The salad is brightened with a zesty lemon dressing, making it perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a great option for meal prepping, as it holds well in the fridge for a couple of days.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale whole wheat bread, cut into cubes
• 2 cups canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 4 large tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, chopped red onion, and parsley.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Add the stale bread cubes to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the bread absorbs the juices.
4. Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

This Mediterranean chickpea and tomato bread salad is a wholesome and delicious dish that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. The combination of hearty chickpeas and fresh vegetables creates a filling meal, while the zesty lemon dressing adds brightness. Ideal for lunch or as a side dish, this salad is also highly adaptable—feel free to add olives, cucumbers, or your favorite herbs to customize it to your liking. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a quick and healthy option for any occasion.

Spicy Tomato and Bread Salad with Arugula

This spicy tomato and bread salad with arugula is a bold twist on the classic Italian dish. With the addition of arugula’s peppery flavor and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, this salad is both vibrant and refreshing. It’s a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or as a standalone dish for a light lunch. The mix of textures from the crusty bread and fresh ingredients creates a delightful experience for the palate.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale crusty bread, cut into cubes
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups arugula, washed and dried
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, toast the bread cubes until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, arugula, sliced red onion, and torn basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the toasted bread cubes to the salad mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine.
5. Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

This spicy tomato and bread salad with arugula is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The peppery arugula and spicy kick make this dish exciting, while the crusty bread absorbs the delicious juices from the tomatoes and dressing. This salad is not only visually appealing but also a fantastic way to enjoy the bounty of fresh summer produce. Whether served as a starter, side dish, or light main course, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Pesto Tomato Bread Salad

This pesto tomato bread salad is a delightful fusion of flavors that elevates the traditional Italian salad. Using fresh basil pesto as a dressing, this dish brings together the robust flavors of ripe tomatoes and crunchy bread. It’s an excellent option for a quick lunch or a side dish for any summer meal. The vibrant green of the pesto and the red of the tomatoes make for an eye-catching presentation, perfect for entertaining guests.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale Italian bread, cut into cubes
• 4 large tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for about 10-12 minutes until golden.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts.
3. Add the toasted bread cubes and pesto to the bowl, mixing gently to combine.
4. If using, add the fresh mozzarella balls and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the bread to absorb the flavors.

The pesto tomato bread salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that celebrates the essence of Italian cooking. The bright and aromatic pesto enhances the fresh tomatoes and crunchy bread, creating a satisfying and delicious salad that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also highly versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, such as olives or roasted vegetables. Enjoy this delightful salad as a light meal or as a vibrant side dish at your next gathering.

Caprese Tomato Bread Salad

This Caprese tomato bread salad is a deconstructed version of the classic Caprese salad, featuring fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all combined with crusty bread. This dish embodies the essence of Italian cuisine—simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Ideal for summer dining, this salad can be served as a starter or as a light main dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups day-old ciabatta bread, cut into cubes
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup balsamic reduction
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, toast the ciabatta bread cubes over medium heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. In a large serving bowl, layer the toasted bread, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves.
3. Drizzle the balsamic reduction and olive oil over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

This Caprese tomato bread salad is a beautiful and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, paired with the crunchy toasted bread, creates a delightful dish that is both satisfying and light. It’s perfect for entertaining or a casual family meal, allowing you to savor the fresh produce of the season. This salad embodies the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine, making it a must-try for any home cook.

Mediterranean Tomato and Bread Salad with Olives

This Mediterranean tomato and bread salad with olives is a flavorful celebration of Mediterranean ingredients. The combination of ripe tomatoes, briny olives, and toasted bread creates a satisfying dish that can be served as a light lunch or a hearty side. With the addition of fresh herbs and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or picnics.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale country bread, cut into cubes
• 5 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast until golden brown, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, olives, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Add the toasted bread cubes to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine.
5. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This Mediterranean tomato and bread salad with olives is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that captures the essence of the Mediterranean diet. The briny olives and fresh vegetables pair beautifully with the crunchy bread, making each bite a burst of flavor. This salad is versatile enough to serve as a side dish at barbecues or as a light lunch on its own. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh ingredients while providing a satisfying and healthful meal option.

Tuscan Tomato and Bread Salad with Capers

This Tuscan tomato and bread salad with capers offers a rustic take on the classic panzanella. The addition of capers adds a tangy and briny flavor that complements the fresh tomatoes and toasted bread. This salad is perfect for those who appreciate bold flavors and is a great way to utilize day-old bread. Serve it as a side dish or as a light main course, and enjoy the taste of Tuscany in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale Tuscan bread, cut into cubes
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for about 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, capers, sliced red onion, and torn basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the toasted bread cubes to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine.
5. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the bread to soak up the flavors.

This Tuscan tomato and bread salad with capers is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italy. The capers add a unique zing that elevates the traditional ingredients, making this salad an exciting option for any meal. It’s not only a fantastic way to use leftover bread but also a healthy and satisfying dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of summer produce. Serve it as a standalone dish or alongside grilled meats for a delightful Italian-inspired feast.

Avocado and Tomato Bread Salad with Balsamic Dressing

This avocado and tomato bread salad with balsamic dressing is a creamy and delicious twist on the traditional tomato bread salad. The addition of ripe avocado adds richness, while the balsamic dressing provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the fresh ingredients. This salad is perfect for those looking for a filling yet refreshing option, making it ideal for summer gatherings or as a light lunch.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale French bread, cut into cubes
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Remove and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, avocado, sliced red onion, and chopped basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Add the toasted bread cubes to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine.
5. Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld.

This avocado and tomato bread salad with balsamic dressing offers a delightful combination of creaminess and freshness, making it a standout dish at any meal. The rich avocado balances perfectly with the tangy balsamic dressing, while the toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for a light lunch or side dish. Enjoy it as part of a summer picnic or as a refreshing complement to grilled proteins.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!