Imagine a dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine with a rustic charm that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. This Grilled Bread Salad with Basil and Cherry Tomatoes is not just a recipe—it's a celebration of fresh flavors, crispy textures, and the magic of summer's bounty. Perfect for those who crave a quick, impressive dish that looks like it came straight from a Mediterranean kitchen, this salad will elevate your dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, ensuring the surface is clean and lightly oiled.
- Brush both sides of the bread slices with olive oil, making sure to coat evenly for perfect grilling.
- Place bread slices on the hot grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crisp grill marks appear. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove grilled bread from heat and let cool for 2-3 minutes, then cut into rough, rustic cubes of approximately 1-inch size.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes and torn fresh basil leaves.
- Add the grilled bread cubes to the tomato and basil mixture.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the salad, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring the bread cubes are well-coated and mixed with tomatoes and basil.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve immediately at room temperature as a fresh, rustic side dish or light lunch.
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Choose a robust, day-old crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough that can withstand grilling without falling apart.
- Oil is Key: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for maximum flavor. Brush the bread generously to ensure beautiful grill marks and prevent sticking.
- Grill Temperature Control: Medium-high heat is crucial. Too hot, and you'll burn the bread; too cool, and you won't get those delicious crispy edges.
- Fresh Ingredients are Non-Negotiable: Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes and freshly picked basil for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Timing is Everything: Let the salad rest for 5 minutes after mixing to allow the bread to slightly absorb the tomato juices and olive oil, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately at room temperature to enjoy the optimal texture and taste of the grilled bread and fresh ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
