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Peach Panzanella Salad

Peach Panzanella Salad combines sweet peaches, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and toasted bread with a tangy balsamic dressing. Light, refreshing, and ideal for summer lunches or dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American, healthy, Italian, summer
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 3 –4 cups crusty bread cubes day-old bread works best
  • 2 –3 ripe peaches sliced
  • 1 cup cherry or heirloom tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn
For the Dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ons:
  • Crumbled feta or goat cheese
  • Toasted pine nuts or walnuts

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Baking sheet (for toasting bread)
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Salad tongs or large spoon

Method
 

Prepare the Bread
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Toss bread cubes lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
  4. Let cool slightly before adding to the salad.
  5. Pro Tip: Using day-old or slightly stale bread absorbs the dressing better without becoming soggy.
Slice the Fruit and Vegetables
  1. Wash and slice peaches into thin wedges.
  2. Halve the cherry or heirloom tomatoes.
  3. Dice the cucumber and thinly slice red onion.
  4. Tear basil leaves for freshness.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity as needed.
  3. Pro Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of Dijon mustard to the dressing.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, peaches, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil.
  2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
  3. Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Optional Additions
  1. Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top for a creamy contrast.
  2. Add toasted nuts for crunch and extra flavor.