ITALIAN BREAD SALAD

4 cups cubed French bread

6 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/4 tsp dried crushed red pepper
1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
4 to 5 large plum tomatoes, chopped
2 cups chopped smoked ham
1 pkg (8-oz) fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
3 green onions, chopped

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Place bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake at 325 degrees 15 minutes or until lightly browned.

Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and both peppers.

Reserve 1 cup of the bread cubes. Scatter remaining cubes on a serving platter; top with the lettuce, tomatoes, ham, and cheese. Drizzle the dressing overall and toss. Allow to stand for 15 minutes before serving.

Before serving, sprinkle with the reserved bread crumbs and the green onions.

Yield: 4 servings

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