Panzanella Salad

Ingredients

• 6 cups day-old Italian bread , torn into bite-size pieces
• 0.33 cups olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic , minced
• 0.25 cups olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 4 medium ripe tomatoes , cut into wedges
• 0.75 cups sliced red onion
• 10 basils leaves , shredded
• 0.5 cups pitted and halved green olives , Optional
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella , Optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

2. 2

   Toss bread with 1/3 cup olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic in a large bowl.

3. 3

   Arrange on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven until golden, about 5 to 10 minutes.

4. 4

   Transfer bread back into the bowl and set aside to cool slightly.

5. 5

   Whisk 1/4 cup of olive oil and balsamic vinegar together in a small bowl; set aside.

6. 6

   Add tomatoes, onion, basil, olives, and mozzarella into the bowl with bread; toss with vinaigrette.

7. 7

   Let stand for 20 minutes before serving. Enjoy!