Radicchio, Fennel, and Olive Panzanella
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026
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This vibrant radicchio, fennel, and olive panzanella is a sophisticated twist on the classic Italian bread salad. The combination of bitter radicchio leaves and the aniseed crunch of thinly sliced fennel creates a complex flavour profile that perfectly balances the salty notes of the aged sheep's-milk cheese and olives. By tossing the bread in lemon zest before roasting, each bite delivers a bright, citrusy punch that lifts the entire dish.
As a high-protein salad, this recipe is bolstered by the addition of savoury hard salami and shaved Manchego, making it a substantial lunch or a satisfying evening meal. It is an excellent choice for meal prep, as the textures hold up beautifully when dressed in advance, allowing the bread to absorb the oregano-infused vinaigrette. Serve it as a standalone main or as a bold side dish for a Mediterranean spread.
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Ingredients for Radicchio, Fennel, and Olive Panzanella
170g country-style bread, torn into bite-size pieces (about 600g )
1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
120ml olive oil, divided
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
1 small shallot, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
1 small head radicchio, torn into bite-size pieces
1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves with tender stems
80g green olives, pitted, halved
90g aged sheep's-milk cheese (such as Manchego), shaved
90g hard salami, thinly sliced
How to make Radicchio, Fennel, and Olive Panzanella
Back to contentsPreheat oven to 204°C. Toss bread with lemon zest and 60ml oil on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Bake, tossing occasionally, until crisp on the outside but still chewy in the centre, 8–10 minutes. Let cool.
Whisk shallot, lemon juice, vinegar, and oregano in a large bowl; season with salt and pepper. Whisk in remaining 1/4 cup oil.
Add radicchio, fennel, parsley, olives, cheese, salami, and bread to dressing; toss to combine.
DO AHEAD: Salad can be dressed the night before. Cover and chill.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
28 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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