Grilled Panzanella Salad

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces cherry tomatoes (or summer tomatoes of choice), halved or cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1/2 medium red onion, very thinly sliced

• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped or grated

• 12 ounces sourdough, Italian bread, or hearty, crusty bread of choice, cut into 1-inch thick slices

• 1 medium bell pepper, diced into 1/2-inch pieces

• 1/2 seedless cucumber, thinly sliced (half moons or quarters)

• Optional: Big handful fresh basil and/or parsley, finely chopped

• Optional: 1/2 cup shaved Asiago

• Kosher salt & ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes and Onion: In a large bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, red wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, and ground black pepper. Add the thinly sliced red onion and garlic, mixing well. Let this sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate.

2. Grill the Bread: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the bread slices on both sides with 1/4 cup of olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Grill the bread for about 2-3 minutes per side, until it’s crispy and golden brown. Once grilled, cut the bread into bite-sized cubes.

3. Grill the Veggies: Toss the diced bell pepper and sliced cucumber with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the veggies for 3-4 minutes until they’re slightly charred but still crisp-tender. Set them aside to cool.

4. Assemble the Salad: In the bowl with the tomatoes and red onion, add the grilled bread cubes, grilled bell pepper, and cucumber. Toss everything gently to combine.

5. Finish the Salad: If you’re using fresh herbs, sprinkle the basil and/or parsley over the salad, and add the shaved Asiago (if using). Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper, if needed.

6. Serve: Serve the Panzanella immediately or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the dressing and juices. This salad gets even better as it sits!