This Grilled Nectarine Burrata Salad is a fresh and tasty mix of juicy nectarines, creamy burrata cheese, and savory prosciutto. It’s perfect for a sunny day or any picnic!
I love how the sweet nectarines and rich cheese play together in this dish. Just a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and you’ll be smiling with each bite! Who knew salad could be so fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Nectarines: Fresh, ripe nectarines are key for sweetness. If you can’t find them, peaches work well too! Also, I’ve found that grilling brings out their flavor nicely.
Burrata Cheese: Burrata’s creaminess is perfect here! If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute, though it won’t have the same richness. I often use both depending on what’s available.
Prosciutto: This adds a nice salty contrast. If you want a lighter option, turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas could replace it for a vegetarian touch.
Greens: Arugula gives a peppery note, but mixed greens work fine. Spinach could be another great choice if you prefer something milder.
Balsamic Glaze: If you don’t have it, a mix of balsamic vinegar with a little honey can provide a similar sweet tang. That’s a trick I often use!
How Do I Grill Nectarines Perfectly?
Grilling nectarines can seem tricky, but it’s easy! The key is to preheat your grill for even cooking. Brush them lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Cut them in half and remove the pit. Brush the cut sides with olive oil.
- Place them cut side down on the grill for 3-4 minutes until they get nice grill marks and soften.
- Let them cool slightly before adding them to your salad.
- Don’t rush this step – the grill adds a lovely smoky flavor!
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Salad with Prosciutto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted
- 4 cups arugula or mixed salad greens
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 6 slices prosciutto
For Dressing and Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for grilling
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Flaky sea salt, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, plus any additional time if you prefer to chill your salad before serving. You’ll spend a few minutes grilling the nectarines and assembling the salad, making it a quick and delightful meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Grill and Nectarines:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it heats up, brush the cut sides of the nectarines lightly with olive oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
2. Grilling the Nectarines:
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 fruit has softened slightly. After grilling, remove the nectarines from the grill and set them aside to cool a little. This step adds a wonderful smoky flavor to your salad!
3. Assembling the Salad:
On a large serving platter or individual plates, create a bed of arugula or mixed salad greens. Tear the creamy burrata into chunks and distribute it evenly over the top of the greens. Place the grilled nectarines on the salad, spaced out nicely.
4. Adding Prosciutto and Dressing:
Next, drape the prosciutto slices over the salad for that delicious salty flavor. Then, drizzle the remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze over everything to enhance the flavors.
5. Final Touches:
Season your salad with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you have fresh basil leaves, sprinkle a few on top to give your dish a lovely aroma and burst of flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Salad with Prosciutto is ready to be served! Dig in and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures that come together beautifully!
This salad combines the smoky sweetness from the grilled nectarines, creamy richness from burrata, and salty depth from prosciutto—making it a delightful summer dish perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Fruits Besides Nectarines?
Absolutely! Peaches, plums, or even grilled apples can work wonderfully in this salad. Each fruit will bring a unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on what’s in season!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prepare some components ahead of time! Grill the nectarines and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just assemble the salad right before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Consume within 1-2 days, but keep in mind that the greens may wilt, so add them fresh if possible when serving leftovers.
Is There a Vegetarian Alternative for Prosciutto?
Yes, you can replace prosciutto with crispy chickpeas for a protein boost or use marinated grilled vegetables for a hearty veggie option. Both provide delicious flavors while keeping the salad light!
