Rustic Italian Bread Salad

I love bread salad. Not only is it a great way to make use of bread that is past it's prime, it also is a fresh, flavorful and easy meal, especially on a night when it is too hot to turn the oven on.

• 1 loaf country style Italian bread (at least day old)
• 1 med chopped Tomato
• 1 med chopped Cucumber
• 1/3 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil (about)
• 1 cup chopped red onion
• 1 cup cannelini beans
• 1 tbsp A Bit of Italy
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (about)
• 1/3 cup feta cheese (optional)
• 1 can Cento Tuna, packed in oil and drained (optional)

Pull apart or chop the bread into bite-size pieces, toast if you would like it crunchy. In a salad bowl, combine, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, cannelini beans, and A Bit of Italy. Include feta and tuna if you are looking for a protein packed salad.  Add enough olive oil and vinegar to lightly coat, toss and let sit to marinate for at least 1 hour. When ready to serve add the bread and toss.

If you love Salad:

• Moscatolli Salad
• Baked Potato Salad
  
• Apple and Celery Root Salad
• Field Greens with Sauteed Mushrooms

Photo Credit:  Saint George Orthodox Church