Colorful Papaya Panzanella

Name: Colorful Papaya Panzanella
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 servings (1 cup each).
Cuisine: Italian Recipes, Italian Salad Recipes, Italian Vegetarian Recipes
Ingredients: 1 loaf whole wheat boule or sourdough bread (1 pound), cut into 1-in. cubes; 1 cup balsamic vinaigrette, divided; 4 cups torn mixed salad greens; 2 medium zucchini, cubed; 2 medium yellow zucchini, cubed; 2 cups cubed peeled ripe papaya; 2 cups grape tomatoes; 8 thin slices sweet onion, quartered

I like to combine fruits with vegetables with homemade croutons to create "pizzazzy" (my new favorite word) side dishes. This one is as pretty as it is delicious! —Kathleen Gill, Pahrump, Nevada

Ingredients

1 loaf whole wheat boule or sourdough bread (1 pound), cut into 1-in. cubes
1 cup balsamic vinaigrette, divided
4 cups torn mixed salad greens
2 medium zucchini, cubed
2 medium yellow zucchini, cubed
2 cups cubed peeled ripe papaya
2 cups grape tomatoes
8 thin slices sweet onion, quartered

Directions

In a large bowl, toss bread cubes with 2/3 cup vinaigrette. Transfer to baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 14-16 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Cool to room temperature.
In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, zucchini, papaya, tomatoes, onion and bread. Drizzle with remaining dressing. Serve immediately.

Originally published as Colorful Papaya Panzanella in Holiday & Celebrations Cookbook 2013