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Cara Cara Orange Panzanella Recipe

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4.3 from 51 reviews

A refreshing and vibrant Cara Cara Orange Panzanella salad featuring juicy orange slices, cherry tomatoes, crispy stale bread, and peppery arugula tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. This Italian-inspired salad is perfect as a light meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish, with the bread soaking up all the bright flavors for a delightful texture contrast.

Ingredients

Salad

  • 3 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 Cara Cara oranges, peeled and sliced into half moons
  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 shallot, thinly sliced
  • 3 cups baby arugula

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of one lemon
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Whisk briskly until the dressing is well emulsified and slightly thickened.
  2. Toss the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the baby arugula, sliced Cara Cara oranges, thinly sliced shallots, and the stale or toasted bread pieces. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  3. Let the salad rest: Allow the salad to sit for 10 to 20 minutes at room temperature. This resting period lets the bread soak up the flavorful dressing and juices from the vegetables and oranges, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
  4. Serve: Transfer the salad to a large low bowl or platter and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • If you don’t have stale bread, you can toast fresh bread cubes in the oven until crispy.
  • For added crunch, consider sprinkling toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving.
  • You can substitute arugula with other greens like spinach or mixed salad greens if preferred.
  • Adjust the lemon juice and salt according to your taste preference.
  • This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before serving.