Grilled Nectarine Salad is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. The combination of juicy, caramelized nectarines with fresh greens creates a refreshing experience that is both satisfying and light. This salad not only showcases the vibrant colors of summer but also pays homage to the age-old tradition of grilling fruits, which has been celebrated in various cultures for centuries. People love this dish for its unique taste and texture; the warm, grilled nectarines contrast beautifully with the crisp greens and creamy cheese, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick and healthy meal, Grilled Nectarine Salad is the perfect choice to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

4 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, and baby kale work well)
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Preparing the Nectarines

1. Start by washing the nectarines thoroughly under cool running water. This helps remove any dirt or residues from the skin. 2. Once clean, place the nectarines on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each nectarine in half and remove the pit. If the nectarines are ripe, the pit should come out easily. 3. After pitting, brush the cut sides of the nectarines with a little olive oil. This will help them grill beautifully and prevent sticking.

Making the Dressing

4. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of honey. 5. Whisk the mixture together until it’s well combined. You want the dressing to be smooth and slightly emulsified. 6. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of each and adjust according to my preference.

Grilling the Nectarines

7. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, place it on the stove over medium-high heat. 8. Once the grill is hot, place the nectarines cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks and the nectarines are slightly softened. 9. Carefully flip the nectarines over and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes on the skin side. You want them to be warm and tender but not mushy.

Preparing the Salad Base

10. While the nectarines are grilling, take a large salad bowl and add the mixed greens. I love using a combination of arugula, spinach, and baby kale for a variety of textures and flavors. 11. Once the nectarines are done grilling, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a minute or two. Then, slice each half into wedges for easier serving.

Assembling the Salad

12. Add the grilled nectarine wedges to the bowl of mixed greens. 13. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. I usually start with half of the dressing and then add more if needed, depending on how dressed I like my salads. 14. Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the greens are coated with the dressing and the nectarines are evenly distributed. 15. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. The creamy feta adds a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the nectarines. 16. Finally, add the toasted walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. If you haven’t toasted your nuts yet, you can do so by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and fragrant.

Garnishing and Serving

17. Tear a few fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad for a burst of freshness and flavor. 18. Give the salad one last gentle toss to incorporate the basil without bruising the leaves. 19. Serve the salad immediately while the nectarines are still warm. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats.

Tips and Variations

20. If you want to add more protein to your salad, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Simply season and grill them alongside the nectarines. 21. For a vegan version, you can omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. 22. Feel free to experiment with other fruits! Grilled peaches or plums would also work beautifully in this salad. 23. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a kick. Enjoy your Grilled Nectarine Salad! It’s a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements that’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Grilled Nectarine Salad is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their summer dining experience. The combination of sweet, juicy nectarines with the smoky char from the grill creates a delightful contrast that is both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, the addition of creamy feta and crunchy nuts adds layers of flavor and texture that will leave your taste buds dancing. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or serve it as a stunning side dish at your next barbecue. You can also experiment with variations by adding other seasonal fruits like peaches or plums, or even tossing in some arugula for a peppery kick. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Grilled Nectarine Salad a try and make it your own. Once you’ve tasted the deliciousness, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s celebrate the joys of cooking together! Remember, this Grilled Nectarine Salad is not just a dish; it’s an invitation to savor the flavors of summer. Happy grilling! Print