This is a great salad for company because all the components can be prepared well in advance and combined 30 minutes before serving. If you make your own croutons, cut the bread into 3/4-inch chunks. They'll shrink during baking.
Ingredients
Dressing:
Salad:
Directions
In a large bowl, use a fork to mix together shallots, lemon zest, garlic, and salt, mashing ingredients to release their essence.
Add oil, vinegar, and black pepper; whisk to combine. Add cucumber, fennel, bell pepper, tomato, and basil; toss to combine with dressing. Add croutons; toss again.
Let stand at room temperature (unless it's over 70 degrees) for 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with onion rings and olives.
Makes 6 to 8 servings.
Sharon Tyler Herbst is the author of The Food Lover's Tiptionary (William Morrow and Company, Inc., copyright 1994 by Sharon Tyler Herbst).
Appetizers
