Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious? Look no further than this Make Ahead Thanksgiving Panzanella! Bursting with fresh flavors and colorful ingredients, this salad is the perfect sidekick to your holiday spread. Imagine crunchy bread cubes mingling with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it can also be prepared in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a show-stopping dish that will have your guests asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of crusty bread, cubed
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Take the loaf of crusty bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes. You can use a serrated knife for cleaner cuts. Set the bread cubes aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the vegetables.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl with the bread cubes. Then, dice the cucumber and thinly slice the red onion, adding both to the bowl as well.
- Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and add them to the bowl. This will help release their flavor into the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the bread and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is golden and slightly crispy.
- Once baked, remove the panzanella from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Before serving, give the panzanella a final toss to mix any ingredients that may have settled. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Transfer the panzanella to a serving platter or individual bowls. Enjoy this delicious make-ahead Thanksgiving panzanella as a refreshing side dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, opt for a crusty artisan loaf or sourdough. These types hold up well during baking and absorb the dressing without becoming soggy.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the bread cubes and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or roasted squash for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors in your panzanella.
- Serve at Room Temperature: While this dish can be served warm, letting it rest for a bit allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
- Garnish for Presentation: Just before serving, consider adding a few whole basil leaves or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Experiment with Dressings: While the balsamic dressing is delightful, you can also try a lemon vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing for a different flavor profile.With these tips in mind, you’re ready to create a stunning Thanksgiving Panzanella that will impress your guests and leave them craving more!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
