Panzanella Salad

For the croutons:

• 1 Italian Bread cut up into 1 inch cubes (smaller or bigger is up to your taste)
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)

For the salad:

• 2 cups basil leaves or greens
• 1 cup tomatoes cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 1 red onion cliced
• 1 cup cucumbers sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers sliced, any color

For the basil dressing:

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1 clove garlic finely minced
• 1 lemon zest and juice
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (OR: 2 teaspoons of mustard if Vegan)
• 1/3 cup olive oil

Alternative Dressing:

• 1/4 basil pesto Homemade basil pesto
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 lemon zested
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Topping (optional)

• 1 burrata cheese https://www.twopurplefigs.com/burrata-cheese/