Panzanella(Italian Tomato And Bread Salad) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 small loaf crusty Italian bread (about 12 oz.), cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
1/2 c. olive oil
1/4 c. red wine vinegar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. minced garlic
1/2 tsp. pepper
8 medium size tomatoes, cut in large chunks
1/2 c. thinly sliced red onion
1 c. thinly sliced fresh basil leaves

Preparation

Put bread slices into a large bowl.
Add cold water to cover; let soak 10 minutes.
In another bowl, whisk oil, vinegar, salt, garlic and pepper until blended.
Drain bread and press out excess water.
Tear into small pieces and add olive oil and wine vinegar to mixture.
Add tomatoes and onion; toss to mix.
Let stand at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Stir in basil before serving. Garnish with basil leaves.
Makes 10 servings.