WONDERFUL MIDSUMMER ITALIAN BREAD SALAD

IF YOU LIKE BRUSHETTA YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE THIS SALAD!!!! JUST REMEMBER TO SERVE IMMEDIATELY AFTER PREPARING THIS SALAD....."Delish"!!!!!!!

WONDERFUL MIDSUMMER ITALIAN BREAD SALAD:

1 Loaf Italian Bread, cubed
1 clove garlic
1 cup tomatoes, chopped
1 cup cucumber, chopped
1/2 - 1 cup red onion, chopped
2 cups fresh basil, chopped
2 T. fresh thyme, chopped OR 1/4 tsp. dried oregano if you prefer
1/4 C. Olive Oil
2 T. Balsamic Vinegar
Salt and Pepper to taste
(I have been known to add small cubes of provolone, or asiago cheese, or even mozzarella to this salad too)

Spread bread cubes on baking sheet, Bake at 300 degrees for 5 - 10 minutes, just until dry.(I prefer very light brown)
Set ASIDE....Now combine vegetables and herbs in salad bowl, mince garlic clove and add to the
vegetables and herbs....Now add the bread cubes and enough olive oil and vinegar to just coat lightly, along with a little salt and pepper to taste. Toss and serve immediately.
(I sometimes top with some small good cheese cubes....just is my preference) YUMMO!!!!