Panzanella is a centuries-old Tuscan bread salad that has gained popularity in modern times.
This hearty mixture combines crumbled slices of day-old Italian or French bread with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, olives and cheeses—all tossed together in a yummy vinaigrette dressing.
With so many savory ingredients included in the recipe, you may be wondering what sides to serve alongside this main dish.
To help you out – here’s our list of the 10 best options for serving with panzanella! From succulent roast vegetables to creamy pasta dishes and fresh salads – there’s something to please everyone’s palette!
So if you’re looking for some delicious inspiration on how best to round off your meal – keep reading…
What to Serve with Panzanella? 10 BEST Options
1. Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a classic dish that can be enjoyed year-round.
This versatile protein can be cooked in a variety of ways, making it a perfect option for any meal.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or want to impress your guests at a summer BBQ, grilled chicken is always a good choice.
When it comes to taste and texture, grilled chicken is relatively mild in flavor and has a slightly chewy texture.
However, there are many ways to elevate this dish and make it more exciting.
One simple way to do this is to marinate the chicken in your favorite sauce or spices before cooking.
This will give the chicken more flavor and make it more moist and tender.
Another great way to dress up grilled chicken is to top it with a flavorful salsa or chimichurri sauce.
If you’re looking for tips on how to grill chicken perfectly, there are a few key things to keep in mind.
First, make sure your grill is properly heated before adding the chicken.
You’ll also want to oil the grates so that the chicken doesn’t stick.
And finally, don’t forget to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking so that all of the juices have time to redistribute.
2. Roasted Shrimp
Roasted shrimp is a delicious and easy seafood dish that can be enjoyed any time of year.
The shrimp are first peeled and deveined, then seasoned with your favorite spices.
I like to use a blend of garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
You could also add some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Once the shrimp are seasoned, they are roasted in the oven until pink and slightly charred around the edges.
The taste and texture of roasted shrimp is amazing- the shrimp are tender and juicy on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior.
The flavor of the spices really comes through, making this dish irresistible.
And because it’s so quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
There are a few things you can do to elevate this dish even further.
First, try serving it with a simple dipping sauce like cocktail sauce or aioli.
Or, for a more festive presentation, serve the roasted shrimp on top of a bed of greens with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.
Either way, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with this delicious recipe.
3. Seared Scallops
Seared scallops are a classic dish that can be found on the menus of many restaurants.
They are simple to make and only require a few ingredients, but they can be elevated to create a truly unique and delicious dish.
Scallops are a type of shellfish that have a sweet, delicate flavor.
They are best when cooked quickly to retain their moisture and achieve a crispy exterior.
When seared properly, scallops should have a golden brown crust and be slightly chewy in the center.
There are a few things you can do to elevate your seared scallops dish.
One is to use fresh scallops instead of frozen.
Fresh scallops will have more flavor and will cook more evenly.
Another tip is to sear the scallops in bacon fat or another type of rendered fat.
This will add flavor and help to create a crispy exterior.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings.
A simple seasoning of salt and pepper may be all you need, but you could also try adding herbs or spices for an extra depth of flavor.
4. Baked Fish Fillets
Baked fish fillets are a versatile and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.
The taste and texture of the fish will vary depending on the type of fish you use, but all baked fish fillets will be moist and flaky.
You can also add different seasonings to change up the flavor.
To elevate this dish, try serving it with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables.
You could also top the fish with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt and some fresh herbs.
If you want something more substantial, you could serve the baked fish fillets on top of a bed of rice or quinoa.
5. Grilled Lamb Chops
Lamb chops are a classic dish that can be enjoyed all year round.
They are perfect for a quick and easy meal, or can be dressed up for a more elegant dinner party.
No matter how you enjoy them, lamb chops are sure to please.
When it comes to taste and texture, lamb chops are best when they are grilled.
The high heat of the grill helps to caramelize the exterior of the meat, while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
For an even better flavor, try marinating your lamb chops before grilling.
This will help to infuse them with even more flavor.
If you’re looking to elevate your lamb chop dish, there are a few things you can do.
First, try using a different type of meat.
Lamb loin chops are a great option for those who want something a little bit fancy.
You can also try serving your lamb chops with a delicious sauce or gravy.
Finally, don’t forget the sides.
Grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes make the perfect accompaniment to grilled lamb chops.
6. Roasted Pork Tenderloin
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make roasted pork tenderloin recipe? This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or even entertaining guests.
The pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat that is full of flavor.
When cooked properly, it should be juicy and slightly pink in the center.
To get the perfect taste and texture, be sure to season your pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you enjoy.
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You’ll also want to roast your pork tenderloin at a high temperature (around 400 degrees Fahrenheit) so that the outside is nice and crispy while the inside remains juicy.
There are many ways to elevate this dish and make it even more special.
One way is to stuff the pork tenderloin with flavorful ingredients like sage, rosemary, and garlic.
Another option is to top the roasted pork tenderloin with a simple sauce made from pan drippings, white wine, and chicken broth.
7. Sautéed Beef Filet Mignon
Sautéed beef filet mignon is a classic dish that is both elegant and delicious.
The beef is tender and juicy, with a rich flavor that is accented by the savory sauce.
This dish is sure to impress your guests, and it can be easily elevated with a few simple tips.
To start, make sure you choose a good quality beef filet mignon.
Look for meat that is well-marbled and has a deep red color.
The filet should be firm to the touch but not too tough.
Once you’ve selected your beef, season it generously with salt and pepper.
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add a bit of oil to the pan, and then add the beef.
Cook the beef for 3-5 minutes per side, or until it is evenly browned.
Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Now, it’s time to make the sauce.
In the same skillet you used to cook the beef, add some shallots and garlic.
Cook them until they are softened, and then add in some red wine and beef broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil, and then let it simmer until it has reduced by half.
Return the beef to the pan, and spoon the sauce over top.
8. Quinoa Salad
A quinoa salad is a light, refreshing dish that is perfect for summertime.
The quinoa provides a delicious, nutty flavor and a satisfying, chewy texture.
The addition of fresh vegetables and herbs give the salad a bright, vibrant flavor.
To elevate this dish, try adding some grilled chicken or shrimp.
The protein will make the salad more filling and satisfying.
You could also add some crumbled feta cheese or avocado for an extra boost of flavor and creaminess.
For a final touch, drizzle the salad with a balsamic vinegar or lemon juice dressing.
9. Farro Salad
Farro is a chewy, nutty grain that makes a great addition to salads.
Its hearty texture pairs well with crunchy vegetables and fresh herbs.
For a salad that will stand out at your next potluck or picnic, try this recipe for farro salad with roasted vegetables.
The key to making a great farro salad is to cook the grain properly.
Farro takes longer to cook than other grains, so it’s important to follow the instructions on the package.
Once it’s cooked, the grain should be tender but still have a bit of bite to it.
You don’t want it to be mushy.
To give the salad some extra flavor, roast the vegetables before adding them to the mix.
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and adds another layer of flavor to the dish.
If you’re short on time, you can skip the roasting step and just add raw vegetables to the salad, but it won’t be quite as good.
This salad can be served as is or topped with a light vinaigrette.
If you’re taking it to a potluck or picnic, pack the dressing separately and add it right before serving.
10. Green Beans with Shallots and Almonds
Green beans are a delicious and healthy option for your next meal.
They are packed with nutrients and have a variety of health benefits.
Green beans can be cooked in many different ways, but one of our favorite ways is to cook them with shallots and almonds.
The taste and texture of green beans can vary depending on how they are cooked.
When they are boiled, green beans tend to be softer and have less flavor.
When they are steamed or roasted, green beans tend to be more crispy and have a more intense flavor.
We prefer to roast our green beans because it brings out the best flavor and texture.
To make this dish even more delicious, we recommend adding some extra spices or herbs.
Some great options include garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, or thyme.
You can also add some crumbled bacon or shredded cheese on top for an extra special touch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many great dishes that go well with panzanella.
The options are endless, but these 10 are a great starting point.
I hope this blog post has been helpful in deciding what to serve with your next panzanella dish.
Be sure to check out our other blog posts for more great tips and recipes.
And as always, let us know what you think in the comments below.
What to Serve with Panzanella? 10 BEST Options
Ingredients
- 1. Grilled Chicken
- 2. Roasted Shrimp
- 3. Seared Scallops
- 4. Baked Fish Fillets
- 5. Grilled Lamb Chops
- 6. Roasted Pork Tenderloin
- 7. Sautéed Beef Filet Mignon
- 8. Quinoa Salad
- 9. Farro Salad
- 10. Green Beans with Shallots and Almonds
Instructions
- Select your favorite sides from the list above.
- Prepare the side dish according to the recipe instructions.
- If you’re short on time, some of these can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Serve and enjoy!
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!