BLT Panzanella is a refreshing Italian bread salad with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce, tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.
Hello, friend! Get ready to experience a taste sensation with this BLT Panzanella recipe. This isn’t your ordinary salad, oh no! It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that takes the classic BLT sandwich and transforms it into a fresh and vibrant salad.
We’re talking crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette and mixed with chunks of crusty bread. It’s a perfect summer dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and create a salad that’s bursting with flavor!
Utensils You Need:
Gather these tools to make your delicious salad:
- Large bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
The Recipe
BLT Panzanella
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed crusty bread
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
- Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and toasted.
- While the bread is toasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, cooked bacon, cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine lettuce, red onion, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients until well combined.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately or chill for a bit to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- You can use any type of crusty bread for this salad, such as ciabatta, sourdough, or baguette.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocado.
- You can make the vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
- If you want to make this salad ahead of time, wait to add the bread until just before serving to keep it crispy.
Alternative Ingredients:
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below:
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| Crusty bread | Croutons |
| Bacon | Pancetta, ham, or vegan bacon substitute |
| Romaine lettuce | Any type of lettuce or mixed greens |
| Red wine vinegar | Balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar |
| Dijon mustard | Whole grain mustard or honey mustard |
What to Serve with BLT Panzanella:
You can pair this delicious BLT Panzanella with the following:
- Grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal.
- A cold glass of lemonade or iced tea on a hot day.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use stale bread for panzanella?
Yes, stale bread is actually ideal for panzanella as it will soak up the dressing and become flavorful without getting too soggy.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon or use a vegan bacon substitute.
How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Can I use a different type of dressing?
Yes, you can use any dressing you like, but a vinaigrette is traditional for panzanella.
Can I use store-bought croutons instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought croutons if you’re short on time.
