Savor the Flavors of Tuscany: Perfect Summer Recipes to Pair with Rosè Sangiovese

As the sun bathes the rolling hills of Tuscany in its warm embrace, locals and visitors alike seek to indulge in the region’s vibrant culinary traditions. Summer is a time for fresh, light, and flavorful dishes, perfectly complemented by a refreshing glass of Rosè Sangiovese. This versatile wine, with its crisp acidity and notes of red berries, is the ideal companion for a variety of Tuscan summer recipes. Here, we present two delightful dishes that capture the essence of Tuscany and pair beautifully with Rosè Sangiovese.

Panzanella: The Quintessential Tuscan Salad

**Ingredients:**

– 4 cups of day-old bread, cubed
– 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
– Fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prep the Bread:** Begin by soaking the cubed bread in water for about 10 minutes. Once softened, squeeze out excess water and place the bread in a large salad bowl.
2. **Mix the Vegetables:** Add the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper to the bowl with the bread. Tear a handful of fresh basil leaves and add them to the mixture.
3. **Dress the Salad:** In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. Pour this dressing over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Toss and Chill:** Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients well. Let the Panzanella sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

This vibrant and refreshing salad highlights the fresh produce of Tuscany and is an ideal match for the crisp and fruity notes of a Rosè Sangiovese. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the olive oil, while its berry flavors complement the sweetness of the tomatoes and bell peppers.

Grilled Tuscan Chicken with Lemon and Herbs

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons (one for zest and juice, one for slices)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a bowl, combine the lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
3. **Grill the Chicken:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
4. **Serve:** Serve the grilled chicken breasts with lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish.

This simple yet flavorful grilled chicken dish is perfect for summer gatherings. The citrusy marinade imparts a bright and zesty flavor that pairs excellently with the refreshing acidity of Rosè Sangiovese. The wine’s subtle floral notes enhance the herbs in the marinade, creating a harmonious balance.

Embrace the Tuscan Summer

These recipes are just a taste of the rich culinary heritage that Tuscany has to offer. When paired with a chilled glass of Rosè Sangiovese, they provide a perfect summer dining experience that captures the essence of this beautiful region. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal with family or hosting an elegant outdoor dinner, these dishes and their wine pairing are sure to impress and delight. Buon appetito!