Panzanella…..Tuscany’s beloved rustic bread salad. Tomatoes and peaches are at their height of the season and shine in this salad. Leftover bread with the tomato juices and vinaigrette create a perfect combination of texture and flavors. The sweet tart stone fruit pairs well with the tomatoes. Add a creamy soft burrata cheese for a silky finish.
Tomato and Stone-Fruit Panzanella With Burrata
2 cups torn sourdough, ciabatta or country bread
6 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1¼ pounds heirloom tomatoes, cut into ½-inch wedges
1 large white peach or nectarine, cut into ½-inch wedges
¼ cup thinly sliced basil
1 small shallot, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon Sherry vinegar
2 balls burrata
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spread croutons across a medium baking sheet and toss with 4 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper. Bake croutons, tossing halfway through, until golden and crisp on all sides, about 13 minutes.
Meanwhile in a large bowl, toss together tomatoes, peaches and basil. Season with salt and let sit to allow flavors to meld, about 10 minutes. Place shallots in a small bowl and cover with ice water. Let shallots crisp, about 8 minutes, then remove them from water. Blot shallots dry and set them aside.
Just before serving, toss shallots, croutons, remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and vinegar with tomato-peach mixture. Season with extra salt and let croutons absorb some of the fruits’ juices, about 5 minutes. Distribute salad among 4 plates and place ½ a ball of burrata on each plate. Season cheese with a pinch of salt and drizzle with additional olive oil. Serve immediately.
Adapted from: WSJ/ Chef Mr. von Hauske and Jeremiah Stone
