Pumpernickel, Mozzarella & Heirloom Tomato Panzanella

May 05, 2023May 5, 20230 2
A refreshing summer salad with tangy balsamic vinaigrette
in Salad

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Ready In

35 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

6 cups pumpernickel bread , stale and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup English cucumber , sliced in half & 1/4 inch slices ( half moon shaped )
1 red bell pepper , roasted , seeded , peeled , and chopped
1/2 small red onion , thinly sliced & cut in half
1 cup mozzarella cheese , preferably fresh cut into cubes
1 cup tomatoes , preferably a mixture of yellow pear and red grape heirlooms
1/2 cup basil , thinly sliced ( chiffonade )
1 garlic clove , finely minced
1/2 teaspoon whole grain mustard
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar , a good variety
1/2 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
6
Calories
393
Sugar
5g
Fat
28g
This Pumpernickel, Mozzarella & Heirloom Tomato Panzanella is a delightful twist on the classic Italian bread salad. The sturdy pumpernickel bread offers a satisfying crunch and pairs beautifully with the tangy balsamic vinaigrette. The variety of colorful heirloom tomatoes and thinly sliced vegetables make this salad not only delicious, but also visually appealing. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your next barbecue, this recipe is sure to become a summer favorite.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 400°F
2.Toss bread cubes in 2 tbsp of olive oil and spread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake until crispy and golden brown (~15 minutes).
3.In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and whole grain mustard. Gradually whisk in remaining olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4.In a large salad bowl, combine cucumber, red pepper, red onion, mozzarella, and tomatoes.
5.Add bread cubes and pour vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss to coat. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the vinaigrette.
6.Just before serving, top with basil. Enjoy!

PROS

Refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect for summer.
Includes a variety of fresh vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil and mozzarella.

CONS

The bread cubes can become soggy if left in the vinaigrette for too long, so it’s best to serve immediately.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Tomatoes are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, while cucumber and red pepper also provide important nutrients like vitamin K and potassium. Olive oil and mozzarella contain healthy fats that can benefit heart health.

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