Add some white beans, and suddenly this traditional Italian bread and tomato salad is filling enough to stand on its own. It’s also a delicious way to use up those fresh tomatoes from the garden or farmers market.

Introducing Viva Panzanella, a vibrant and flavorful Italian salad that celebrates the freshness of tomatoes, the crunchiness of bread, and the delightful combination of Mediterranean ingredients. Join us as we explore the origins, history, and the art of creating this delectable dish.

Panzanella is a traditional Tuscan salad that originated as a way to use stale bread. It was a clever solution to avoid wasting any precious food in times when resources were scarce. The name “panzanella” is derived from the Italian words “pane” (bread) and “zanella” (soup bowl), reflecting its humble origins as a bread-based dish.

Over the years, Panzanella has evolved and been adapted in various regions of Italy, with each area adding its own unique twist. Viva Panzanella embraces a combination of Mediterranean flavors, featuring sourdough bread, ripe tomatoes, white kidney or cannellini beans, artichoke hearts, roasted sweet red peppers, basil, red onion, Greek olives, and capers. The salad bursts with colors, textures, and a symphony of flavors.

To create this delightful salad, start by cubing sourdough bread and tossing it with olive oil before toasting it in the oven. This step adds a satisfying crunch and allows the bread to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients without becoming soggy. Meanwhile, prepare the remaining ingredients by chopping tomatoes, rinsing and draining beans and artichoke hearts, slicing roasted red peppers, basil, and red onion, and quartering Greek olives. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, including the cooled toasted bread.

The dressing for Viva Panzanella is a harmonious blend of balsamic vinegar, minced fresh parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, minced fresh thyme, marjoram, oregano, and minced garlic. Whisk all the dressing ingredients together until well combined. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.

PREP: 40 MIN.

MAKES: 6 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• ¾ pound sourdough bread, cubed (about 8 cups)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2½ pounds tomatoes (about 8 medium), chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) white kidney or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14 ounces) water-packed artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained and quartered
• 1 cup thinly sliced roasted sweet red peppers
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ¼ cup Greek olives, quartered
• 3 tablespoons capers, drained

FOR DRESSING:

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 3 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1½ teaspoons minced fresh marjoram or ½ teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1½ teaspoons minced fresh oregano or ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 garlic clove, minced

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, toss the bread with oil and transfer to a baking sheet. Bake at 450° for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Cool to room temperature.
2. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, beans, artichokes, peppers, basil, onion, olives, capers, and bread.
3. In a small bowl, whisk dressing ingredients. Drizzle over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

1. Summer Picnic: Viva Panzanella is a perfect addition to a summer picnic or outdoor gathering. Its refreshing flavors and vibrant colors make it an inviting and delicious dish for sharing with friends and family.
2. Brunch Delight: Serve Viva Panzanella as part of a brunch spread, alongside other brunch favorites like quiches, frittatas, or smoked salmon. Its combination of flavors and textures will add a delightful twist to your morning meal.
3. Potluck Party: Impress your guests at potluck parties by bringing Viva Panzanella. Its unique combination of ingredients and beautiful presentation will make it a standout dish among the other offerings.
4. Light Lunch or Dinner: Enjoy Viva Panzanella as a light and satisfying meal on its own. The combination of bread, vegetables, beans, and olives provides a balanced and nourishing dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
5. Grilled Meat Accompaniment: Pair Viva Panzanella with grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or lamb. The fresh flavors and tangy dressing of the salad complement the smokiness of the grilled meats, creating a delightful combination.

Viva Panzanella is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, showcasing the simplicity and beauty of Italian cuisine. Its colorful presentation, the crunch of toasted bread, and the medley of flavors from the fresh ingredients make it a true culinary delight. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the spirit of Italy, and savor the vibrant goodness of Viva Panzanella. Buon appetito!