### Artichoke and Tomato Panzanella: A Flavorful Italian Salad Recipe
Panzanella is a delightful Italian bread salad that can be made with fresh, seasonal ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and artichokes. This version adds a unique twist with artichoke hearts, enhancing the flavors of the traditional recipe.
#### Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh or canned artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups torn day-old Italian bread (preferably crusty)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for added flavor
#### Tools:
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Kitchen towel or paper towels (for draining bread)
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Bread:**
- If using fresh bread, cut it into cubes and let them dry on a kitchen towel for 30 minutes to an hour. This step is crucial as it absorbs excess moisture that might make the salad soggy.
2. **Dice Vegetables:**
- Dice the tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the artichoke hearts finely. If using canned ones, drain them well before chopping.
3. **Make the Dressing:**
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. **Combine Ingredients:**
- In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the bread cubes with half of the dressing to coat evenly.
- Add the diced tomatoes, cucumber, artichokes, and chopped basil to the bowl. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
5. **Finish the Salad:**
- Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad and mix thoroughly until everything is well coated.
- If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the salad just before serving for a burst of flavor.
6. **Serve Immediately or Chill:**
- For best results, serve the panzanella right after preparation while the bread remains fresh and slightly crunchy. Alternatively, you can chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. However, be mindful that the bread may become a bit soggy if left too long.
### Tips for Success:
- Choose ripe but firm tomatoes; they will add natural sweetness without being overly juicy.
- Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and fresh basil for authentic flavor.
- If you want to make this dish more substantial, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
Enjoy your Artichoke and Tomato Panzanella as a refreshing side or light main course! This recipe combines the freshness of summer produce with the comforting texture of bread, making it perfect for any warm weather gathering.