Panzanella (Italian Bread Salad)

Step 1

In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, garlic and basil.

Step 2

Drizzle with the 1/2 cup olive oil and the 3 tblsps vinegar, season with salt and pepper and toss well.

Step 3

Place half of the bread in a wide, shallow bowl.

Step 4

Spoon half of the tomato mixture over the bread.

Step 5

Layer the remaining bread on top and then the remaining tomato mixture.

Step 6

Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Step 7

Just before serving, toss the salad and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper.

Step 8

If the bread seems dry, add a little oil or vinegar.

Step 9

Serve immediately.