To make a typical Panzanella salad, first cut stale, crusty bread into cubes and lightly roast them in the oven until crisp. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, cucumber chunks, and fresh basil leaves. Add the toasted bread cubes to the bowl. In a small bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make a simple vinaigrette. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated. Allow the salad to remain for at least 30 minutes so that the flavors can combine. Serve at room temperature and enjoy this traditional Italian dish! // panzanella salad traditional // panzanella salad // panzanella // panzanella salad barefoot contessa // panzanella salad recipe // panzanella sandwich //