Panzanella

Directions

1. 1
   Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil.
2. 2
   Prepare a large bowl of ice water.
3. 3
   Cut an X at the bottom of each tomato and submerge the tomatoes in the boiling water for 10 seconds.
4. 4
   Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatoes to the ice water to cool slightly.
5. 5
   Using a small, sharp paring knife, peel off the tomato skins and cut the tomatoes in half.
6. 6
   Scoop out and discard the seeds, then cut the tomatoes into 1-inch cubes.
7. 7
   Cut the crusts off the bread, and cut or tear the bread into 1-inch cubes.
8. 8
   In a large bowl, whisk 2/3 cup of oil, 1/4 cup of vinegar, the garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper to blend.
9. 9
   Add the bread cubes, tomatoes, and sliced basil, and toss to combine.
10. 10
    Set aside until the bread absorbs the vinaigrette, tossing occasionally, about 5 minutes.
11. 11
    Season the salad with more salt and pepper to taste.
12. 12
    In a small bowl, soak the capers in the remaining 2 tablespoons of vinegar for 10 minutes.
13. 13
    Drain.
14. 14
    In another small bowl toss the roasted peppers with 2 tablespoons of the oil.
15. 15
    Season the peppers with 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
16. 16
    Transfer half of the bread mixture to a 13 X 9 X 2-inch glass dish.
17. 17
    Arrange half of the roasted peppers, capers, and olives over the bread mixture.
18. 18
    Repeat layering with the remaining bread mixture, then the remaining peppers, capers, and olives.
19. 19
    Cover the salad and let stand at room temperature for the flavors to blend, at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours.
20. 20
    Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over the salad.
21. 21
    Garnish with the basil sprigs and serve.