We the Italians June 14, 2015 - 62 | Page 32

th # 62 • JUNE 12 , 2015 loved it. I made it to share with you as soon as DIRECTIONS I returned home. It is very easy and quick to prepare. It should rest in the fridge for a while to allow all the flavors to mingle. If you happen to visit either Tuscany or Umbria in August, you may very well encounter some festivals dedicated to this delicious dish. Preparation time: 10 min. Cooling time: 1 h Servings: 4 INGREDIENTS 200 g (7 oz) Tuscan bread http://www.passionandcooking.com/2013/10/27/pane-toscano-tuscan-bread/, cut into small pieces 3 Romano tomatoes, cut into cubes 2 cucumbers, peeled and cut into small pieces 1 red onion, finely sliced 120 g (4 oz) canned tuna in olive oil 2 tablespoon white wine vinegar 2 tablespoon water 12 fresh basil leaves Salt and freshly ground pepper 32 | WE THE ITALIANS www.wetheitalians.com 1. In a big bowl place the tomatoes, cucumbers, onion and season with salt and pepper 2. Add bread, vinegar and water. Toss all the ingredients together. The bread should be wet but not soggy. Break it up with a fork 3. Add tuna and mix well 4. Taste and add more salt, pepper and vinegar, if necessary 5. Tear in basil and refrigerate for 1 hour. Serve cold. Note: I use tuna canned in olive oil, and therefore I do not add any oil to my panzanella. Instead if you use tuna canned in water, I would recommend adding 2-3 tablespoons of oil olive (extra-virgin of course!). You can substitute Tuscan bread with other hearty Italian breads, such as a Pugliese loaf.