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Tomato, Mozzarella, And Bread Salad

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound Italian or French bread
• 4 medium tomatoes
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

Directions

1. Heat the oven to 350 F.
2. Cut the bread crosswise into slices 1 inch thick.
3. Put them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven, turning once or twice, until they are crisp and golden, 15 minutes.
4. Let cool and store, tightly covered, for up to 2 days.
5. While the bread is toasting, core and roughly chop the tomatoes and put them and their juices in a bowl.
6. Add the mozzarella, oil, and vinegar; sprinkle with salt and lots of pepper and toss several times to combine well.
7. Fill a bowl with water, add the toasted bread, and soak until the pieces start to absorb some water and soften, 2 to 3 minutes.
8. Squeeze the water out of the croutons and crumble them into the salad.
9. Toss to combine the ingredients and let the salad sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
10. Toss with the basil, taste and adjust the seasoning, and serve.

Attribution