Grilled Panzanella Salad with Bell Peppers, Summer Squash, and Tomatoes

A vibrant Italian bread salad featuring grilled vegetables, crusty ciabatta, and fresh herbs tossed in a bright lemon-vinegar dressing. This colorful summer dish combines smoky grilled peppers, squash, and onions with juicy tomatoes and fresh herbs.

6 servings
45 min

Ingredients

  • pounds assorted bell peppers
  • pounds assorted summer squash
  • 1 medium red onion
  • 1 loaf ciabatta
  • ¼ cup Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
  • cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound tomatoes
  • ½ cup fresh Italian parsley
  • ¼ cup assorted fresh herbs
  • 2 tablespoons capers

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Prepare barbecue (medium heat). Brush both sides of bell peppers, squash, onion, and bread slices lightly with olive oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill vegetables until tender and brown, about 4 minutes per side for peppers and squash and 3 minutes per side for onion. Grill bread until browned and crisp, turning occasionally, about 4 minutes. Cool slightly. Rub bread with cut sides of garlic. Tear bread into 3/4-inch pieces; place in very large bowl. Cut grilled vegetables into 1-inch pieces; add to bread in bowl.

    20 min

  2. 2.

    Whisk first 3 ingredients in small bowl to blend. Gradually whisk in 1/3 cup oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Add dressing, tomatoes with juices, and all remaining ingredients to salad; toss. Let stand 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

    20 min