Imagine a dish that captures the essence of Tuscan cuisine in every single bite - crispy grilled bread, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a tantalizing balsamic dressing that dances on your palate. This Grilled Tuscan Bread Salad is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany. Get ready to impress your guests and elevate your summer dining with this incredibly easy yet sophisticated dish that proves gourmet cooking can be both accessible and delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Tuscan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices of rustic bread
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Brush each slice of rustic bread with olive oil on both sides. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Place bread slices directly on the hot grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp with distinct grill marks. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Cut grilled bread into large, rustic cubes approximately 1-inch in size.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and freshly chopped basil.
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar and remaining olive oil in a small bowl to create the dressing. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add grilled bread cubes to the vegetable mixture and gently toss with the balsamic vinaigrette.
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow bread to absorb the dressing and flavors to meld together.
- Serve at room temperature, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: Use a rustic, day-old Italian or sourdough bread for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Grill Temperature Matters: Maintain medium-high heat (400-450°F) to achieve perfect golden-brown grill marks without burning.
- Let the Salad Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes helps the bread soak up the dressing, intensifying the flavors.
- Fresh Ingredients Are Key: Use ripe, in-season cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for maximum flavor.
- Customize Your Vinaigrette: Experiment with different vinegars or add a touch of Dijon mustard for extra complexity.
- Serve at Room Temperature: This salad is best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature to maximize flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
