Grilled Peach & Zucchini Panzanella

If you’re craving a refreshing, vibrant salad that marries the sweetness of summer fruits with the savory crunch of grilled vegetables and bread, look no further than this Grilled Peach & Zucchini Panzanella. This dish is a celebration of seasonal produce, featuring juicy peaches and tender zucchini, perfectly charred to enhance their natural flavors. Tossed with crusty day-old bread and brightened with fresh basil and tangy feta, it’s a colorful, wholesome salad that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What makes this Grilled Peach & Zucchini Panzanella stand out is its unique combination of smoky, sweet, and savory elements that come together effortlessly. The grilling process caramelizes the peaches and zucchini, adding a depth of flavor that transforms a simple salad into a gourmet experience. Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile — it can be served as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or even a stunning starter for your next gathering.

Using day-old Italian bread absorbs the dressing beautifully without getting soggy, making every bite perfectly textured. If you prefer making your own bread or croutons, check out this fantastic guide on Homemade Croutons to enhance your panzanella even further.

This salad is not only bursting with flavor but also quick to put together, ideal for those warm days when you want something fresh and fast. The balance of sweet peaches, smoky zucchini, and the creamy saltiness of feta cheese will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 2 cups diced day-old Italian bread
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

How To Make Grilled Peach & Zucchini Panzanella

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your day-old Italian bread into 1-inch cubes. If your bread is fresh, lightly toast the cubes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until crisp but not browned. This step ensures your bread holds up well once mixed with the dressing.

Step 2: Grill the Peaches and Zucchini

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the peach halves and zucchini slices lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place them on the grill, cooking the peaches cut side down for about 3-4 minutes until you see lovely grill marks and the fruit softens slightly. Grill zucchini slices for about 2-3 minutes per side until tender and charred.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to your taste. This simple vinaigrette will tie all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Cut the grilled peaches into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, grilled zucchini, and peach pieces. Drizzle the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Add Fresh Basil and Feta

Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad. Finally, crumble feta cheese on top for a creamy, tangy finish that complements the sweetness of the fruit and the smoky veggies.

Step 6: Serve

This salad is best served immediately while the bread is still slightly crisp and the grilled produce is warm. However, it can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Expert Tips

• Use ripe but firm peaches to avoid them becoming too mushy on the grill.
• Day-old bread is key for absorbing the dressing without turning soggy. If you don’t have day-old bread, lightly toast fresh bread cubes.
• Don’t skip the grilling step; it adds a smoky depth that makes this panzanella exceptional.
• Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar to balance sweetness and acidity according to your preference.
• Fresh basil is essential for the bright herbal note—avoid dried basil substitutes.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out feta cheese for goat cheese or mozzarella for a milder, creamier texture.
• Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch and nuttiness.
• Incorporate a handful of arugula or baby spinach for more greens.
• Try adding thinly sliced red onions or shallots for a subtle bite.
• For a smoky twist, serve alongside Smoky Paprika Zucchini Fries With Lime Aioli.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Grilled Peach & Zucchini Panzanella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the bread may soften as it absorbs more dressing over time. To refresh the salad, you can add a little more fresh bread cubes or lightly toast some before tossing the leftovers. For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to enjoy this salad fresh.

FAQ

Can I use other types of bread for panzanella?

Yes! While traditional panzanella uses Italian bread, you can substitute with any rustic, crusty bread like sourdough or ciabatta. Just make sure the bread is a day old or toasted to prevent sogginess.

Is it necessary to grill the peaches and zucchini?

Grilling is highly recommended as it caramelizes the natural sugars in the peaches and adds a smoky flavor to the zucchini, elevating the overall taste. However, if you don’t have a grill, you can roast them in the oven or sauté in a pan, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based and naturally vegan-friendly.

What is the best way to prepare the salad in advance?

You can prepare the grilled peaches, zucchini, and bread separately and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad and add the dressing, basil, and feta just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Conclusion

This Grilled Peach & Zucchini Panzanella is a delightful medley of textures and flavors that celebrates the best of summer’s bounty. Its simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a light main, it’s sure to impress with its harmonious balance of sweet, savory, smoky, and fresh notes. Give it a try for your next meal and enjoy a taste of sunshine on your plate!

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