Panzanella is an Italian salad that can be found on trendy bistro menus in the hot summer months. I'll share a secret with you: This salad was invented when times were tough, as a way to use up stale bread.

Essentially, you make a salad--traditionally with plenty of fresh tomatoes--toss it with a vinaigrette, then add cubed stale or toasted bread just before serving.

You can toast up a day-old baguette or fresh bread, depending on what you have in the kitchen.

The bread soaks up all the delicious juice from the tomatoes and the tangy vinaigrette. The rest of the summer-fresh vegetables add crunch and freshness.

NOTE: If you're watching your sodium intake, reduce the amount of feta or omit it.

TIP: Rub a garlic clove on the bread after toasting for instant, healthier croutons.

Eat as a side salad or add two grilled scallops and a slice of grilled whole-grain bread for a meal!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Great Salad or Chunky Salsa

Submitted by VFITZ89

Most pasta salads are heavy on the pasta and light on everything else. This version, which can be served warm or cold, includes a hefty portion of vegetables--both spinach and tomatoes.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Panzanella is an Italian salad that can be found on trendy bistro menus in the hot summer months. This salad was invented when times were tough, as a way to use up stale bread.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

Sweet summer corn gets a tangy twist.

Submitted by CHEF_MEG

This hearty, healthy salad is great warm or cold. It's even better the next day, after the flavors have had a chance to mingle.

Submitted by SPARK_RECIPES

This protein-rich vegetarian recipe is simple to make and tasty to eat!

Submitted by CHEF_MEG