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Fresh Grilled Nectarine Salad Recipe with Arugula and Goat Cheese

grilled nectarine salad - featured image

A quick and easy summer salad featuring smoky grilled nectarines, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese, perfect for light meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted
  • 4 cups fresh arugula
  • 4 ounces creamy fresh goat cheese
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon raw honey (optional)
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
  2. Rinse and dry the nectarines. Slice each in half and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  3. Place nectarines cut-side down on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear and fruit softens slightly. Flip and grill the skin side for another 2 minutes.
  4. While nectarines grill, toast walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Set aside to cool.
  5. Whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. In a large bowl, toss arugula with half the dressing to lightly coat the greens. Arrange warm nectarines over the top.
  7. Crumble or dollop goat cheese over the nectarines, then sprinkle toasted nuts on top.
  8. Drizzle remaining dressing over everything and add a fresh crack of black pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcook nectarines to avoid mushiness. Brush nectarines lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage caramelization. Toast nuts fresh for best flavor. Dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. For dairy-free, substitute goat cheese with vegan cream cheese or almond-based ricotta. Nectarines can be swapped with peaches or plums.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled nectarine salad, arugula salad, goat cheese salad, summer salad, grilled fruit salad, easy salad recipe