Italian Panzanella Salad with Rosemary-Infused Bread Cubes

Origin and History of Panzanella
Panzanella is a traditional Italian salad that has its roots in the Tuscany region. It was born out of the need to avoid wasting stale bread, a staple in Italian households, especially in rural areas. Originally, panzanella was made with hard country bread, water, olive oil, and vinegar, along with fresh seasonal vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. This salad is both simple and delicious, a perfect example of rustic cuisine: dishes made with local, inexpensive ingredients that, through careful preparation, offer a burst of flavors.

Panzanella has a history dating back centuries, although its modern version often includes fresh tomatoes, onions, and herbs. It is a pillar of Italian summer cuisine, particularly enjoyed during the warmer months when tomatoes are abundant and perfectly ripe. It is a simple dish that celebrates one of Italy's most iconic ingredients: extra virgin olive oil.

Ingredients for Panzanella with Rosemary-Infused Bread Cubes
For 4 people:

• Stale country bread (preferably not fresh): 4 thick slices, cut into cubes.
• Fresh rosemary: a few sprigs to flavor the bread.
• Red tomatoes: 3 to 4 ripe tomatoes.
• Yellow or orange cherry tomatoes: 200g to add sweetness and color.
• Cucumber: 1 cucumber, peeled and diced.
• Small onion (red or white): 1, finely chopped.
• Fresh basil leaves: a handful of torn leaves.
• Black olives: 50g (preferably Kalamata olives for their robust flavor).
• Extra virgin olive oil: 3 to 4 tablespoons.
• Balsamic vinegar: 1 to 2 tablespoons.
• Salt: to taste.
• Freshly ground black pepper.

Preparation of Panzanella Salad

1. Preparation of rosemary-infused bread cubes:

   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Cut the country bread into cubes.
   • Place the bread cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh rosemary. Toss to coat the bread evenly with oil and herbs.
   • Toast the bread cubes in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. Let them cool.

2. Preparation of vegetables:

   • Wash the red tomatoes and cherry tomatoes, then cut them into pieces (the cherry tomatoes can be halved).
   • Cut the cucumber into thin rounds or small cubes, depending on your preference.
   • Slice the onion thinly.
   • Tear the fresh basil leaves into pieces to release their aroma.

3. Assembling the salad:

   • In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, black olives, and basil leaves.
   • Add the toasted and cooled bread cubes to the bowl.

4. Seasoning:

   • Drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
   • Gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients evenly.

5. Resting:

   • Let the salad sit for 15 to 20 minutes so the bread can soak up the flavors of the vinegar, oil, and fresh vegetables.

6. Serving:

   • Serve the panzanella well-chilled as a side dish or a light main course.

Drinks to Pair with Panzanella
As a light and fresh salad, panzanella pairs well with refreshing beverages that complement its Mediterranean flavors:

Wines:

• Dry white wine: A Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is perfect to accompany this salad. These fresh, slightly acidic wines pair well with the lightness and freshness of the tomatoes and basil.
• Provence Rosé: This fruity and fresh rosé wine will complement the sweetness of the tomatoes and the crispness of the toasted bread.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks:

• Sparkling water with lemon: The acidity of sparkling water with a slice of lemon helps balance the oiliness of the salad and refresh the palate.
• Fresh tomato juice: A lightly seasoned tomato juice with a pinch of salt and pepper can be a great choice to extend the tomato flavors of the salad.

Light Cocktails:

• Spritz: A light cocktail made with Prosecco, Aperol, and sparkling water, which brings a refreshing and light touch to the meal.

Beers:

• Witbier (Belgian wheat beer): A lightly fruity and spicy wheat beer pairs nicely with the herbaceous flavors and the rosemary-infused bread.

Tradition and Cultural Influence
Panzanella is more than just a salad; it embodies the true spirit of Tuscan cuisine and, more broadly, Italian culinary tradition. Italian cuisine is characterized by the use of simple, yet exceptional-quality ingredients, and panzanella is a perfect example. This dish is also a testament to the wisdom of the people and respect for the seasons: it transforms leftover bread into a flavorful dish, using seasonal vegetables and local products.

Today, panzanella is a must-have dish during the summer across Italy, and its recipe has been adapted in many other countries, especially for barbecues and outdoor meals.

In Conclusion
Panzanella is a simple yet delicious salad, full of Mediterranean flavors, ideal for enjoying fresh summer produce. With its affordable ingredients and herbal aromas, it perfectly reflects the spirit of Italian cuisine, where simplicity and quality come together to create memorable dishes.

Buon appetito!