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Spring Panzanella Salad: 7 Fresh & Irresistible Ways to Enjoy This Dish

Spring Panzanella Salad

Spring Panzanella Salad is a vibrant Tuscan-inspired dish featuring toasted bread cubes, crisp spring vegetables, and fresh herbs tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing, customizable salad ideal for picnics, family meals, or light dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups crusty bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (preferably day-old)
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (plus 3 tbsp for dressing)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup radishes, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh arugula
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Toss bread cubes with minced garlic and 3 tbsp olive oil.
  3. Spread bread on baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes until golden and crispy.
  4. Prep vegetables: halve tomatoes, slice cucumber, radishes, and onion, dice bell pepper.
  5. Whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for dressing.
  6. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread, veggies, basil, and parsley.
  7. Pour dressing over salad; toss gently to combine.
  8. Let salad sit for 10 minutes for flavors to meld.
  9. Top with feta cheese, toss lightly, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Tip: Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin veggie slices.
  • Variation: Substitute ciabatta with sourdough or gluten-free bread.
  • Substitution: Make vegan by skipping feta or using dairy-free cheese.
  • Serving: Pair with white wine or cucumber lemonade; garnish with extra herbs or toasted nuts for crunch.

Nutrition

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