Panzanella Salad by Barbara

Panzanella is a type of Tuscan salad.  It simply means that you incorporate stale bread in with the mix of greens, tomatoes and vegetables.  Surprisingly good if you've never tried it.  

I make this version using the antipasto salad with order from our local pizzeria, Aniello's. They make fantastic bread in addition fantastic Neopolitan-style pizza.  So, their leftovers make a great panzanella salad.  You can easily create the same salad with store-bought items.  

---Barbara

Panzanella Salad

Serves 2 generously

2 cups arugula or spinach 

1/2 cup Italian deli meats: chopped ham, chopped pepperoni

1/3 - 1/2 cup provolone cheese, thinly sliced, into strips

1 large tomato, cut into bite-size cubes

1 to 2 cups, torn, cubed soft Italian bread

1/3 to 1/2 cup Italian dressing

I swap out the leftover iceberg lettuce that comes from Aniello's for fresh arugula, then add the leftover ham, pepperoni, provolone and tomatoes on top.  

Then I break up the leftover bread (their salad comes with a small sub-shaped wedge) into bite-size pieces. 

Pour their dressing or any store-bought Italian dressing on top.  (You need more than usual due to the bread which you want to soak up the flavors.) 

Toss well and serve.

 B