Tomato-Herb Bread Salad - cooking recipe

Ingredients

5 large ripe tomatoes, diced
8 stalks celery, peeled and diced
10 scallions, thinly sliced
2 tsp. grated lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
1 c. coarsely chopped basil leaves
1/4 c. chopped Italian parsley
1/4 c. chopped mint leaves
2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 1/2 Tbsp. salt
fresh ground pepper to taste
1 large loaf stale, crusty French or Italian bread

Preparation

In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, celery, scallions, lemon zest, garlic, basil, parsley and mint.
Add the olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt and pepper and mix well.
Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
Pour on enough water to completely moisten the bread.
Let stand for 10 minutes.
Squeeze out the excess water.
Finely chop the bread and toss it in the salad.
Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Yield:
8 servings.