This fresh salad mixes juicy grilled nectarines with creamy burrata cheese and savory prosciutto. Perfect for a light lunch or a fun side dish!
Honestly, who knew fruit on salad could be so good? The sweet and salty combo is a winner, and I just love how colorful it looks on the plate. It’s a feast for the eyes too! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Nectarines: Ripe nectarines are sweet and juicy, perfect for grilling. If they’re out of season, peaches are a great substitute. Both have a delicious flavor, but nectarines add a nice tang.
Burrata: Burrata cheese gives this salad its creamy texture. If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella is a decent alternative, although it’s not quite as creamy. You could also try goat cheese for a tangy kick!
Prosciutto: This salty cured meat pairs well with the sweetness of the nectarines. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap it with marinated or roasted vegetables for that extra flavor layer.
Nuts: The toasted pine nuts add a nice crunch. If you have a nut allergy, pumpkin seeds can work well, or you can omit the nuts altogether!
How Do I Grill the Nectarines Perfectly?
Grilling nectarines is simple but does need some care. To get those beautiful grill marks and soft texture, follow these steps:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill is key to good searing.
- Brush the cut sides of the nectarines with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Place them cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to soften but not fall apart!
- Once grilled, let them cool slightly before slicing into wedges. This keeps the juices in and makes serving easier.
These steps will help you get perfectly grilled nectarines every time! Enjoy the process, it’s worth it!
Grilled Nectarine Salad with Burrata and Prosciutto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 3-4 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
- 8 ounces burrata cheese
- 6-8 slices prosciutto
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or aged balsamic vinegar
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 5-10 minutes to grill the nectarines. In total, you’ll need around 20-30 minutes. It’s quick, fresh, and super satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Nectarines:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, brush the nectarines lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper. Once the grill is hot, place the nectarines cut-side down on it. Grill for about 3-4 minutes, until you see nice grill marks and the fruit softens a little. Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly before slicing each half into wedges.
2. Prepare the Salad Greens:
In a large bowl, toss together the mixed salad greens with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. If you’re using lemon juice, squeeze some in there as well for a zesty kick! Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble Your Salad:
Take your dressed greens and arrange them neatly on a serving platter or on individual plates. Tear the burrata into large, creamy chunks and place it over the greens. Next, drape the prosciutto slices over the top, followed by the delicious grilled nectarine wedges.
4. Add Some Extra Flavor:
If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the salad. Drizzle everything with balsamic glaze or aged balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy finish. Feel free to garnish with fresh basil leaves for that extra touch!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your grilled nectarine salad is ready! Serve it immediately while it’s fresh and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy, salty, and sweet flavors. This salad is perfect for a light meal or as a lovely starter!
FAQ for Grilled Nectarine Salad with Burrata and Prosciutto
Can I Use Different Fruits Instead of Nectarines?
Absolutely! If nectarines are not in season, you can use peaches or plums, as they grill well and provide a similar sweet flavor. Just make sure they are ripe for the best taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat it, as it can wilt the greens.
What if I Don’t Have Burrata Cheese?
No worries! Fresh mozzarella is a good substitute, though it will be less creamy. You could also use goat cheese for a different flavor profile, which pairs nicely with the fruit and prosciutto.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the grilled nectarines and toss the greens with olive oil ahead of time. Just wait to assemble the salad with burrata and prosciutto until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and delicious!
