Salad is a crisp, refreshing meal for the summer, and this panzanella salad is the best salad for a hot summer day because it is made with just a few simple ingredients.

You won’t have to shop for anything fancy before getting into this salad, making this an affordable and accessible recipe to make for a taste of Italy.

Why add fresh mozzarella to panzanella salad?

Panzanella salad is elevated with the addition of a soft and creamy cheese like mozzarella or burrata. With veggies and bread, cheese always goes.

Why do you need to toast the bread?

You need to toast the bread because you’re creating a sort of crouton with the bread. You don’t want the bread to get soggy from the dressing, so you want to be sure to toast it until it is nice and crisp.

Don’t worry, when you add your dressing the bread will soften right up!

What you need to make panzanella salad

To make panzanella salad you’ll need a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your fridge.

You can also add different ingredients like cucumber, banana peppers, olives, and more but for the traditional recipe you’ll need:

• Tomatoes
• Mozzarella
• Red onion
• Basil
• Baguette bread
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

To make the salad simply put together all the ingredients and add the dressing. Learn how to make it below.

How do you make the dressing?

The dressing is very simple. You just add a few ingredients together let the flavors combine with the sweet juices of the tomato and onion. This will create a harmony of flavors no one can resist.

Here’s what you’ll need to put together the dressing:

• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Pepper

Looking for a twist?

If you’re looking to mix up some flavors and try a fresh version of panzanella you’ve never tried before, add some pesto to your dressing.

That’s right, the creamy, herby pesto will add another level and flavor to the salad! Try it out and let us know how you liked it by tagging us @breakthrukitchen on social media!