Elevate your appetizer game with this vibrant and flavor-packed Panzanella Bruschetta—a delicious fusion of two classics! This recipe combines the bold, fresh flavors of a traditional Italian Panzanella salad with the crispy, garlicky base of bruschetta, creating the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and fragrant basil are tossed with golden ciabatta croutons and a zesty red wine vinegar dressing. Piled high on toasted baguette slices rubbed with fresh garlic, each bite is a satisfying combination of crunch and tanginess. Ready in just 30 minutes, this fresh and easy appetizer is perfect for parties, light lunches, or any occasion that calls for a crowd-pleasing dish brimming with Mediterranean charm.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the ciabatta bread into 1-inch cubes and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and toss to coat. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let cool.
While the bread is toasting, dice the cherry tomatoes, peel and seed the cucumber, and dice it into small cubes. Thinly slice the red onion. Combine these ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
Add the toasted ciabatta cubes to the bowl with the vegetables.
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and fold them into the salad. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the flavors.
Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick diagonal slices. Toast the slices in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-6 minutes, or until they are crisp and golden brown.
Peel the garlic cloves and rub them lightly onto the surface of the toasted baguette slices while they are still warm.
Spoon the Panzanella mixture onto the toasted baguette slices, distributing evenly.
Serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Calories |
2934 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 93.0 g | 119% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.2 g | 56% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 7005 mg | 305% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 453.0 g | 165% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 29.9 g | 107% | |
| Total Sugars | 28.5 g | ||
| Protein | 90.0 g | 180% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 274 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 31.6 mg | 176% | |
| Potassium | 1536 mg | 33% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.