Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives

Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives is a vibrant salad that celebrates the flavors of charred peppers, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy burrata cheese. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light weeknight meal. The combination of grilled vegetables and fresh ingredients makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an impressive addition to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Flavorful: The charred peppers and sweet cherry tomatoes bring a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side—great for barbecues, potlucks, or casual dinners.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing seasonal produce ensures this salad is both healthy and delicious.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this dish visually stunning; perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process while ensuring great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Cast-iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Ideal for charring the peppers and enhancing their natural sweetness through high heat.
• Cast-iron skillet: Perfect for cooking tomatoes evenly while infusing them with flavors from rosemary and garlic.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and bread without damaging your kitchen counters.

Ingredients

A panzanella salad full of charred peppers, burst cherry tomatoes, olives, grilled bread, and burrata cheese

Servings: 4-6

For the Salad

• 6 small bell peppers
• olive oil
• 1 sprig rosemary
• 12 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
• kosher salt
• 1 tbsp red apple vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¾ cup pitted castelvetrano olives, halved
• 1 tbsp chopped garlic chives (or regular chives), plus more to garnish

For the Bread Base

• 6 oz crusty bread, sliced ½”

For Garnishing

• 1 ball burrata cheese
• flaky sea salt
• freshly cracked black pepper

How to Make Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill over high heat to prepare for charring the peppers.

Step 2: Char the Peppers

1. Place the small bell peppers directly on the grill.
2. Char them on all sides until blackened and tender.
3. Transfer the charred peppers to a bowl and loosely cover with foil. Let them steam for about 10 minutes as they cool down.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Peel the skins off the cooled peppers, cut out the stems, scrape out the seeds, and slice into smaller pieces.
2. While waiting for the peppers to cool, place a cast-iron skillet over the grill to heat it up.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss in the sprig of rosemary. Heat in oil for a few seconds until fragrant.
4. Add in the halved cherry tomatoes, seasoning them with a pinch of kosher salt. Cook until they burst and become tender—about a few minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in the red apple vinegar, along with minced garlic. Cook for another minute before removing from heat.
2. Mix in the halved castelvetrano olives and chopped garlic chives (or regular chives).

Step 5: Grill the Bread

1. Brush each slice of crusty bread with olive oil and season lightly with salt.
2. Grill until crisp and slightly charred—about one minute per side.
3. Remove from grill and cut each slice into smaller pieces.

Step 6: Assemble Your Salad

1. Spread pieces of grilled bread out in a large shallow bowl.
2. Top with charred pepper mixture (discarding any remaining rosemary).
3. Break apart the ball of burrata cheese, distributing it over top.
4. Season generously with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
5. Garnish with additional garlic chives or regular chives before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives!

How to Serve Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives

Serving Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives is a delightful way to enjoy fresh flavors and textures. This vibrant salad can be the star of your meal or a refreshing side dish. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Offer it alongside grilled chicken for a wholesome meal that balances protein and veggies.
• Pair it with a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious juices from the salad.

For Dinner Parties

• Serve family-style in a large bowl, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Create an inviting atmosphere by adding candles and soft music to enhance the dining experience.

As Part of a Picnic

• Pack individual servings in mason jars for easy transport and minimal mess.
• Include refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea to complement the flavors of the salad.

With Wine Pairings

• Choose a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, which pairs well with the freshness of the peppers and cheese.
• A sparkling water with lemon can also be a great non-alcoholic option.

How to Perfect Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives

Perfecting Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives is all about enhancing its flavors and textures. Follow these tips for an exceptional dish.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Use ripe cherry tomatoes and colorful bell peppers to ensure maximum flavor.
• Char the peppers properly: Aim for a nice char on all sides; this adds depth and smokiness to your salad.
• Let the bread soak: Allow the bread pieces to absorb the juices from the salad for added flavor and texture.
• Use quality olive oil: High-quality olive oil enhances every ingredient, making your dish taste gourmet.
• Garnish generously: Fresh herbs like chives not only add flavor but also make your dish visually appealing.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy this salad right after assembling it for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives

Pairing side dishes with Pepper Panzanella can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this salad beautifully.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling for juicy bites that pair perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender for a flavorful side.
3. Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with diced cucumbers, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil for a light yet satisfying option.
4. Stuffed Zucchini Boats: Hollow out zucchini halves and fill them with a mix of rice, tomato sauce, and spices before baking.
5. Garlic Bread: Grill or bake slices of bread brushed with garlic-infused olive oil until crispy for a classic accompaniment.
6. Simple Green Salad: Combine mixed greens, cucumber slices, and a lemon vinaigrette for an easy, refreshing side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives turns out perfectly, steer clear of these common mistakes.

• Boldly ignore ingredient freshness: Using stale bread or overripe vegetables can ruin the salad. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

• Boldly skip seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process, especially with salt and pepper.

• Boldly rush the grilling: Not allowing enough time for the peppers and bread to char can affect texture and taste. Grill until they’re nicely browned for maximum flavor.

• Boldly overlook assembly: Layering your ingredients without care can result in uneven flavors. Take your time to arrange them thoughtfully for a better presentation and taste experience.

• Boldly forget about garnishes: Skipping garnishes like chives may leave your dish looking plain. Add fresh herbs or extra seasoning on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives

• It is not recommended to freeze this dish due to the texture of the vegetables and burrata after thawing.

Reheating Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives.

What is Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives?

Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives is a vibrant salad featuring grilled peppers, cherry tomatoes, olives, crusty bread, and creamy burrata cheese.

Can I customize my Pepper Panzanella?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or herbs such as basil for varied flavors.

How should I serve Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives?

Serve it as a delightful side dish or light lunch. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing meal on warmer days.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients beforehand. Just assemble it right before serving to keep the bread crisp.

Final Thoughts

Pepper Panzanella with Burrata & Olives is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors that delight any palate. Its versatility allows for various customization options, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe!