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Fresh Grilled Nectarine Salad with Goat Cheese and Arugula

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A bright and fresh summer salad featuring smoky grilled nectarines, peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and toasted nuts, dressed with a honey-balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted
  • 4 cups fresh arugula (about 120g)
  • 4 oz (115g) creamy goat cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon raw honey
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • A few mint or basil leaves, torn (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
  2. Rinse and pat dry the nectarines. Cut them in half and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil.
  3. Place nectarines cut-side down on the grill. Grill for 3-4 minutes until caramelized grill marks appear and the fruit softens slightly. Flip and grill for another 2 minutes on the skin side. Remove and let cool slightly.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
  5. In a large bowl, toss the arugula with half the dressing to lightly coat the leaves. Arrange arugula on a serving plate or bowl.
  6. Slice grilled nectarines into wedges and scatter over the arugula. Crumble goat cheese evenly on top.
  7. Sprinkle toasted nuts and torn fresh herbs over the salad. Drizzle the remaining dressing on top.
  8. Add a crack of black pepper and a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.

Notes

If nectarines are very ripe, grill for less time to avoid mushiness. Toast nuts separately in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes to enhance flavor. Dress arugula just before serving to keep it crisp. For dairy-free, substitute goat cheese with vegan cheese or avocado. Nectarines can be swapped with peaches or plums. If no grill is available, roast nectarines in a 425°F oven for 8-10 minutes or broil carefully.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/fresh-grilled-nectarine-salad-recipe-easy-perfect-summer-salad-with-goat-cheese-and-arugula/