Tuscan Bread Salad with Balsamic Glaze

This yummy salad is one Erica made for BFF Cathy's surprise party. It was found in the "Favorites" cookbook (which is one of my favorites...and is a fundraiser for Make a Wish foundation.)






Tuscan Bread Salad with Balsamic Glaze

1 loaf dense crusty Italian bread (sourdough is great)
1 large ball of fresh Mozzarella cheese
1 large tomato (we used fresh cherry tomatoes)
1 yellow or red pepper
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped

Dressing:
1 clove garlic, minced
6 T. olive oil
3 T. Balsamic or red wine vinegar
salt and pepper, to taste

Combine dressing ingredients and blend well; set aside. Cut cheese, tomato and pepper into 1-inch cubes and transfer to salad bowl with chopped basil. Pour dressing over cheese and veggies to marinate while cutting and toasting bread. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and toast in oven until lightly brown. Add bread cubes to salad bowl and mix well to coat all pieces. Serve immediately.