Toasted Panzanella

Green olives and colorful fresh vegetables are tossed with toasted French bread and flavored with red wine vinegar and sautéed garlic. The lemon zest and fresh basil make it an extraordinary treat for your guests.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients

1 small French bread, cut into small cubes ( about 4 cups)
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh basil, cut
1 1/2 lbs (700 g) fresh tomatoes, diced
1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded, diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup green olives, coarsely chopped
2 tsp capers, drained and coarsely chopped
1/2 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp sugar

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175 °C)
2. Cut the bread into cubes and spread on the baking sheet.
3. Bake in the oven until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Add the oil to a small skillet and set over medium heat.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes, until golden and fragrant.
6. Chop the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, basil, and place in a serving salad bowl. Add the sugar, capers and lemon zest.
7. Add the vinegar and sautéed garlic and oil. Season with salt, pepper, and mix well to coat.
8. Let sit for 30 minutes before serving.
9. Serve with baked potatoes, pea puree or cooked rice.