Best 2 Sunnys Spicy Spinach Panzanella Recipes

# Sunny's Spicy Spinach Panzanella: A Culinary Delight for Summer Gatherings

As the summer sun shines brightly, it's time to embrace the vibrant flavors of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Sunny's Spicy Spinach Panzanella is a refreshing and flavorful salad that captures the essence of summer. This delightful dish combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, peppery arugula, and tender spinach with a zesty dressing made from red wine vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey. The addition of toasted bread cubes adds a delightful crunch, while crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkling of fresh herbs complete this culinary masterpiece.

In addition to the main recipe, this article also features a collection of other enticing recipes that are perfect for summer gatherings. From a refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad to a hearty Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon-Herb Dressing, there's something to satisfy every palate. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or a casual potluck, these recipes will surely impress your guests.

So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the bounty of summer. Sunny's Spicy Spinach Panzanella and the accompanying recipes are sure to become favorites in your kitchen, bringing joy and flavor to your summer gatherings.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

SUNNY'S SPICY SPINACH PANZANELLA

Sunny's Spicy Spinach Panzanella image

Provided by Sunny Anderson

Categories side-dish

Time 45m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 baguette, split and cut into bite-size cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons whole-grain mustard
Zest of 1 lemon plus 3 tablespoons lemon juice
1/3 cup olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
10 to 12 pickled jalapeno slices, chopped
10 to 12 super-thin slices red onion, sliced in half
10 ounces baby spinach
1/4 cup sliced black olives, lightly chopped
4 heirloom tomatoes, chopped into chunks

Steps:

For the baguette cubes: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
In a large bowl, add the baguette cubes and drizzle over the olive oil. Toss until the bread is coated. Sprinkle over a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper, then toss again. Pour onto a nonstick baking sheet and toast, tossing every 3 to 4 minutes, until golden on all sides, 12 to 14 minutes. Allow the cubes to cool slightly before tossing back into the large bowl.
For the vinaigrette: In a medium bowl, combine the mustard and lemon zest and juice. Slowly whisk in the olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Add the jalapenos and onions and allow them to soak in the vinaigrette for 10 minutes.
For the salad: To the large bowl of toasted baguette cubes, add the baby spinach, black olives and tomatoes. Toss gently. Pour over the vinaigrette and toss until combined. Serve at room temperature.

SUNNY'S SPICY SPINACH PANZANELLA

Sunny's Spicy Spinach Panzanella image

Provided by Sunny Anderson

Time 45m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

1 baguette, split and cut into bite-size cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons whole grain mustard
Zest of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1/3 cup olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
10 to 12 pickled jalapeno slices, chopped
10 to 12 super-thin slices red onion, sliced in half
10 ounces baby spinach
1/4 cup sliced black olives, lightly chopped
4 heirloom tomatoes, chopped into chunks

Steps:

Toast the baguette cubes: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. In a large bowl, add the baguette cubes and drizzle over the olive oil. Toss until the bread is coated. Sprinkle over a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper then toss again. Pour onto a nonstick baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden on all sides, making sure to remove and toss in 3 to 4 minute intervals. This should take 12 to 14 minutes. Remove and allow the cubes to cool slightly before tossing back into the large bowl.
Make the vinaigrette: In a medium bowl, combine the mustard, lemon zest and lemon juice. Slowly whisk in the olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Add the jalapenos and onions and allow them to soak in the vinaigrette for 10 minutes.
Build the salad: To the large bowl of toasted baguette cubes, add the baby spinach, black olives and tomatoes. Toss gently. Pour over the vinaigrette and toss until combined. Serve at room temperature.

Tips:

Utilize Fresh Ingredients: For the most flavorful result, make use of the freshest ingredients available, particularly for the vegetables and herbs.
Control the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your desired level of spiciness. It's suggested to start with a small quantity and increase if necessary.
Slice Consistently: Ensure uniform sizes when slicing the bread cubes. Smaller pieces will absorb more dressing, while larger ones will retain a firmer texture.
Toast or Fry Bread Cubes: To enhance their flavor, briefly toast or fry the bread cubes prior to assembling the salad.
Let the Salad Rest: For the best taste, allow the salad to sit for a while before serving. This allows the dressing to penetrate and enhance the flavors.

Conclusion:

Sunny's Spicy Spinach Panzanella is a delightful summer salad that presents a vibrant medley of flavors and textures. With toasted bread cubes absorbing the tangy dressing, crispy bacon providing a salty touch, spinach adding freshness, and a hint of spice from chili flakes, this dish offers a satisfying and refreshing dining experience. By incorporating various cooking techniques and selecting top-quality ingredients, this recipe ensures a memorable salad that's perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a side dish to grilled meats.