2red onions (approx. 240g)cut into quarters, keeping the root end intact (to hold them together during cooking)
200g(7.1oz)sourdough or crusty breadcut into 2.5cm thick slices
2tbspextra virgin olive oilto drizzle
salt
1largeclove garlichalved
a large handful of flat leaf parsleyleaves picked
100g(3.5oz)pitted green oliveshalved
For the dressing (see Notes):
4tbspextra virgin olive oil
2tbspsherry vinegar
1tbspbalsamic vinegar
1tspDijon mustard
salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
(See Notes) Preheat your barbecue to hot. Lay the peppers on the hot barbecue and turn regularly until they are lightly charred all over – this should take around 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from the barbecue, transfer to a bowl and cover tightly with cling film (or plate). Leave for around 15 minutes – the steam will help to loosen the skins.
Meanwhile, place the quartered onions on the barbecue and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides.
While the onions are cooking, drizzle both sides of the bread with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt. Place on the barbecue and cook on both sides until well toasted. Remove the onions and bread from barbecue and place on a tray to cool slightly. Rub each piece of toast with the cut surface of the garlic on both sides.
Uncover the peppers and peel away their skins. Remove the seeds and cut the pepper flesh into 2cm strips. Combine the peppers and onions in a large bowl. Tear the bread into bite-size pieces and add to the bowl along with the parsley and green olives.
For the dressing, in a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, vinegars and mustard. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Pour the dressing over the pepper salad and toss well. Leave for a few minutes so the bread can soak up the dressing then mix again. Serve on a big platter and let everyone help themselves.
Notes
You can make ahead by prepping up to 4 hours ahead (steps 1 to 5, but wait to add the toasted bread and dressing shortly before serving (step 6).
Optional variations:
Feta version - scatter crumbled feta over the salad before serving.
Halloumi version - add grilled halloumi slices.
Italian version - include mozzarella, basil and balsamic glaze.
Spanish version - add smoked paprika and toasted almonds.
Moroccan version - add cumin, coriander and preserved lemon.
Spicy version - include sliced fresh red chilli or chilli flakes.
Bean salad - mix in butter beans or chickpeas for extra protein.
This barbecued mixed pepper salad recipe is easily adapted if you’re cooking for less or more people. The photos are a third of the recipe, to serve 2.