Salatat blankit is fun Tunisian open-faced sandwich. This dish is a brilliant mash-up of flavors and textures that turns stale bread into a gourmet treat. It’s the ultimate rescue mission for your forgotten baguette, transforming it into a canvas for a mix of toppings. I’m happy to share this recipe because it’s not just delicious, it’s also a clever way to reduce food waste.

Kerri-Jo, a Canadian who moved to Tunisia after marrying a Tunisian, sent us this recipe. She fell in love with salatat blankit for its ability to breathe new life into day-old bread. In Tunisia, tossing bread is a big no-no, and this dish is the perfect solution. Kerri-Jo mentioned that everyone has their own spin on the recipe, making it a fun way to get creative with leftovers. She loves how it turns something old and stale into a dish that gets people excited.

Making salatat blankit is a breeze. We start with the vinaigrette by mixing tuna oil (yes, from the can!), harissa paste, vinegar, and spices. Dip slices of stale baguette in this mixture, letting them soak up all that goodness. For the topping, layer on a grilled veggie salad (charred onions, peppers, and tomatoes), tuna, sliced hard-boiled eggs, olives, capers and cheese. The key is to let the bread soak just enough to soften without falling apart.

Other Cooking Uses for Stale Bread

Stale bread is often overlooked, but it can be transformed into delicious dishes that minimize waste and maximize flavor. Here are several ways to utilize stale bread creatively in your cooking.

1. Breadcrumbs

One of the most common uses for stale bread is to make breadcrumbs. Simply:

• Process: Tear the stale bread into pieces and pulse it in a food processor until you achieve the desired crumb size.
• Uses: Use breadcrumbs for coating fried foods, as a topping for casseroles, or to bind meatballs and meatloaf.

2. Panzanella

This Italian bread salad is a great way to use stale bread while creating a refreshing dish.

• Ingredients: Stale bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, basil, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
• Method: Cut the stale bread into cubes and mix it with chopped vegetables. Dress with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Bread Pudding

A classic dessert that turns stale bread into a sweet treat.

• Ingredients: Stale bread, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and optional add-ins like raisins or chocolate chips.
• Method: Tear the bread into pieces and soak it in a mixture of milk, beaten eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Pour into a baking dish and bake until set and golden.

4. Croutons

Perfect for salads and soups, croutons are easy to make.

• Ingredients: Stale bread, olive oil, garlic powder, and herbs.
• Method: Cut the bread into cubes, toss with olive oil and seasonings, then bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crispy.

5. Stuffing

Stale bread is the perfect base for stuffing.

• Ingredients: Stale bread, broth, herbs, vegetables (like celery and onions), and optional sausage.
• Method: Tear the bread into pieces, sauté the vegetables, and combine everything with broth and herbs. Bake until heated through and slightly crispy on top.

6. French Toast

Turn stale bread into a breakfast classic.

• Ingredients: Stale bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
• Method: Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Dip the bread slices into the mixture and cook on a skillet until golden on both sides.

7. Bread Soup (Panade)

This comforting dish is perfect for using up stale bread.

• Ingredients: Stale bread, broth, garlic, onion, and herbs.
• Method: Sauté garlic and onion in a pot, add broth, and bring to a simmer. Stir in chunks of stale bread and cook until the bread breaks down into a thick soup.

8. Bruschetta

Transform stale bread into a tasty appetizer.

• Ingredients: Stale bread, tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil.
• Method: Toast slices of stale bread, then top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, minced garlic, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

When I took my first bite, I was blown away by the flavors. The bread, now softened by the vinaigrette, provides the perfect base for the salty, briny toppings. The tuna adds richness, while the grilled veggies bring a smoky sweetness. It’s a little spicy, a little tangy, and completely addictive. What I love most about salatat blankit is its versatility. You can easily adjust the toppings to your liking. It’s the perfect party food, casual enough for a snack yet impressive enough to serve guests. Plus, it’s a delicious way to prevent food waste. Next time you’re side-eyeing that stale baguette, don’t toss it. Turn it into salatat blankit instead!