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Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad is my go to summertime dish when I want something fresh but still show stopping for guests. The combination of sweet grilled nectarines with creamy burrata juicy tomatoes salty prosciutto and a burst of fresh herbs in a lemon vinaigrette always feels like the ultimate warm weather treat.
I remember making this for a family picnic last July and even the kids kept coming back for seconds It instantly became my cookout signature.
Ingredients
- Nectarines: choose ripe but still firm fruit for grilling so the slices do not fall apart their sweetness anchors the salad
- Burrata cheese: tear fresh balls just before serving its ultra creamy center softens right over the fruit
- Prosciutto: thin slices add a savory salty note for great contrast to the sweet fruit opt for a high quality imported kind if possible
- Cherry tomatoes: use brightly colored ones for a burst of juicy flavor and color
- Heirloom tomatoes: look for big meaty fruit with bold flavor and color variety
- Fresh cherries: bring a tart pop and extra summer flair always pit them first
- Mixed baby spring greens: a tender mild bed that lets the toppings shine
- Finishing salt and fresh ground black pepper: elevate the salad right before serving use flaky sea salt if you can find it
- Grilled baguette: pick a rustic loaf and slice thickly to catch any juices
- Fresh lemon juice: balances everything with its tartness freshly squeezed makes a difference
- White wine vinegar: offers tang to the vinaigrette without overpowering the fruit
- Lemon zest: doubles up on citrus freshness use a microplane for best results
- Fresh oregano mint and lemon thyme leaves: bring layers of herby brightness chop right before mixing for punchiest flavor
- Extra virgin olive oil: gives the dressing a luxurious mouthfeel pick a grassy peppery one for best results
- Pinch of salt and fresh ground black pepper: fine tune your vinaigrette to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice and Grill Nectarines:
- Quarter your nectarines then slice each wedge again to make slim eighths Brush lightly with olive oil so they do not stick Grill on medium high two or three minutes per side until soft and well marked Remove and cool
- Prepare the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl whisk together lemon juice white wine vinegar lemon zest mushrooms fresh herbs olive oil pinch of salt and pepper Taste and adjust for acidity
- Toss the Salad Base:
- In a large salad bowl combine baby greens halved cherry tomatoes heirloom tomato slices and pitted cherries Drizzle with part of the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat
- Layer on Toppings:
- Arrange grilled nectarines among the salad Mound torn burrata and folds of prosciutto on top Let the cheese spill slightly over the other ingredients
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with extra fresh herbs finishing salt and black pepper Serve with grilled baguette on the side Add more vinaigrette to taste
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The grilled nectarines are truly my favorite part every time I light up the grill their aroma instantly fills the backyard and I am reminded of the July afternoon spent cooking with my sisters while everyone waited on the porch for the first platter
Storage Tips
This salad is best eaten right away since burrata and grilled nectarines do not hold up well once combined Store components separately if prepping ahead Grilled fruit and vinaigrette can each be made a few hours early Keep burrata and greens chilled until serving time
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap peaches or plums for nectarines if that is what you have Soft mozzarella works instead of burrata if you need a budget swap Use arugula or baby spinach for mixed greens or go with just one kind if you prefer Skip prosciutto for a vegetarian version
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a main with a big hunk of bread or alongside grilled chicken fish or steak It also works well as a starter for dinner parties Pile high on a platter for dramatic effect and let everyone help themselves
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Nectarine Burrata Salad in Culinary History
Fruit and cheese salads have roots across Mediterranean cuisines pairing salty meat creamy cheese and seasonal fruit I love how this dish celebrates peak produce in a really approachable way For me it always feels like a late summer postcard on the table
Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to grill nectarines for this dish?
Lightly brush nectarine wedges with olive oil and grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks form and they soften slightly.
- → Can you substitute other cheeses for burrata?
Yes, fresh mozzarella or creamy ricotta work nicely if burrata is unavailable, offering a similar texture and mild flavor.
- → What herbs complement this salad?
Fresh oregano, mint, and lemon thyme add brightness and aromatic notes that complement stone fruit and cured meat.
- → How should the salad be served?
Serve at room temperature immediately after assembly with slices of toasted or grilled baguette for a satisfying bite.
- → Are any ingredients optional?
Cherries, heirloom tomatoes, or certain herbs can be omitted or swapped based on preference or seasonal availability.
- → How far in advance can components be prepared?
Nectarines can be grilled and dressing prepared a few hours ahead, but assemble greens and cheese just before serving for best texture.