Heirloom Tomato & Grilled Halloumi Panzanella Salad with Basil Oil

Prep time: 15 min

Cook time: 10 min

Total time: 25 min

Servings: 6

1 (1 lb.) loaf of day-old sourdough bread,

torn into 1-inch cubes

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup fresh basil, plus more for garnish

1 (8 oz.) block halloumi cheese, cut into 1/2-inch blocks

1 bunch lacinato kale, deveined and chiffonade

Juice of one lemon

4 large heirloom tomatoes, cut into wedges

Preheat oven to 425°F.
Toss bread in 2 Tablespoons Pompeian Organic Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil, salt and pepper and spread out on a sheet pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty.
Place basil leaves and remaining 1 cup of Pompeian Organic Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a high speed blender. Blend on high for 10-30 seconds. Transfer to a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Gently simmer the oil for 1 minute to set the color.
Pour the oil into a fine mesh strainer that is set over a bowl lined with cheesecloth. Allow to drain for 5 minutes. Transfer to glass jars and allow to cool. Once cool, use as a drizzle or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
On a grill or a grill pan, cook halloumi until sear marks are visible, about 2-3 minutes per side.
In a large bowl, gently massage kale leaves with lemon juice until softened, about 3 minutes.
To assemble, toss bread cubes, grilled halloumi, tomatoes, and kale on platter. Top with basil oil, fresh basil leaves, salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

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