Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe

This Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe is a delightful summer dish that bursts with fresh flavors. Combining juicy peaches with crusty bread, cherry tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, it creates a beautiful balance of sweet and savory. Ideal for warm-weather meals, picnics, or potlucks, this Italian-inspired salad is not only easy to prepare but also customizable, making it perfect for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of sweet peaches and tangy balsamic vinaigrette brings vibrant flavors to your table.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a light main course or as a side dish at gatherings; it’s sure to impress!
• Easy Customization: Add ingredients like mozzarella or prosciutto to cater to your taste preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh produce, this salad is low in calories yet filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Peach Panzanella Salad efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparing your salad easier and enhances the overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Salad tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for the vegetables and fruits, enhancing presentation.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
• Salad tongs: Perfect for tossing the salad gently without damaging delicate ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 cups cubed rustic bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or baguette)
• 3 ripe peaches (sliced into wedges)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cucumber (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
• Optional: 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls or sliced prosciutto

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut your rustic bread into cubes.
• Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 2: Slice Fresh Ingredients

• While the bread is toasting, slice the peaches into wedges.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the cucumber and red onion.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, peach wedges, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and torn basil leaves.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Toss the Salad

• Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture.
• Gently toss everything together using salad tongs until evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve

• Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will let flavors meld together beautifully.

This Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe is simple yet elegant—perfect for any summer occasion!

How to Serve Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe

This Peach Panzanella Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. There are several creative ways to serve and enhance this vibrant dish, making it perfect for any gathering or meal.

As a Main Course

• Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a satisfying main dish on hot days.
• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a more protein-rich meal.

As a Side Dish

• Complement your favorite grilled meats, such as steak or pork, with this refreshing salad.
• It’s an excellent addition to summer barbecues and picnics.

For a Brunch Spread

• Include it in a brunch buffet alongside other light dishes like quiches or frittatas.
• The sweetness of the peaches makes it a delightful contrast to savory breakfast items.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Portion into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for busy days.

How to Perfect Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe

To elevate your Peach Panzanella Salad, consider these simple yet effective tips.

• Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that are fragrant and slightly soft to ensure sweetness and juiciness.
• Toast the bread: Lightly toast the bread cubes before adding them to the salad to enhance their flavor and texture.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds vibrant flavor; consider mixing in mint or parsley for variety.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Experiment with the balsamic vinaigrette by adding more honey or mustard for sweetness or tanginess.
• Add protein: For a heartier salad, include mozzarella balls or sliced prosciutto as optional toppings.
• Let it rest: Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe

When serving Peach Panzanella Salad, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers cooked over an open flame add a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the salad.
2. Caprese Salad: A classic Italian dish featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. It’s light and pairs perfectly with Peach Panzanella.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offer a warm side that balances the coolness of the salad.
4. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a favorite; serve warm alongside your fresh salad for added texture and flavor.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf can provide extra nutrition and pairs well with both sweet and savory notes in the salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices make for a hearty side that rounds out your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Peach Panzanella Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overusing Dressing: Adding too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Use a light hand and add more only if needed.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Using Stale Bread: Old bread won’t absorb the dressing well. Make sure your bread is fresh or properly toasted for the best texture.
• Forgetting to Chill: Serving the salad warm can diminish its refreshing qualities. Allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Leaving out fresh herbs will reduce flavor complexity. Always include fresh basil or other herbs for added freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture will change once thawed.

Reheating Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven at 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking tray and heat for about 10 minutes, but beware that it may lose some freshness.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals (20-30 seconds) until just warm, but avoid heating too long.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally for even heating without cooking further.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe?

A Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe combines ripe peaches, crusty bread, tomatoes, and herbs dressed in a light vinaigrette, creating a refreshing summer dish.

Can I customize my Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like mozzarella, prosciutto, or different vegetables based on your preferences.

How do I choose ripe peaches for my salad?

Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. They should have a sweet aroma and vibrant color.

Is the Peach Panzanella Salad Recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread options available in stores.

Final Thoughts

The Peach Panzanella Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its combination of sweet peaches and savory elements makes it perfect for any summer gathering. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or dressings to suit your taste! Give this refreshing salad a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

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Peach Panzanella Salad

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this Peach Panzanella Salad. This delightful dish showcases juicy peaches paired with crusty bread, ripe cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Each bite combines sweet and savory notes, making it a versatile option for picnics, barbecues, or as a light main course. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, this Italian-inspired salad is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature, and let the natural sweetness of the peaches shine through!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups cubed rustic bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or baguette)
• 3 ripe peaches (sliced into wedges)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cucumber (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
• Optional: 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls or sliced prosciutto
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut rustic bread into cubes and toast on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
2. While bread is toasting, slice peaches into wedges, halve cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice cucumber and red onion.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread cubes with peach wedges, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and torn basil leaves.
4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Drizzle dressing over salad mixture and gently toss using salad tongs until evenly coated.
6. Allow the salad to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg