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Fresh Nectarine Basil Caprese Salad

fresh nectarine basil caprese salad - featured image

A simple, vibrant summer salad combining sweet nectarines, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze for a refreshing and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large fresh nectarines, ripe but firm, sliced
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn into bite-sized pieces
  • About 20 fresh basil leaves, whole or roughly torn
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: A handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for crunch

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry 3 large nectarines. Slice into even 1/4-inch (about 6 mm) thick wedges. Set aside.
  2. Cut 8 ounces (225g) of fresh mozzarella into 1/4-inch (6 mm) slices or tear into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with a paper towel if very wet.
  3. Rinse about 20 fresh basil leaves and pat dry. Leave whole or tear into smaller pieces.
  4. On a large serving platter, alternate slices of nectarine and mozzarella in a slightly overlapping pattern. Scatter basil leaves evenly on top.
  5. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. Add 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze in a thin zigzag stream across the top.
  6. Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If using, scatter toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
  7. Let the salad sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Toss gently before serving if needed.

Notes

If nectarines are not in season, substitute with firm peaches or ripe apricots. For dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella or omit cheese and add avocado slices. Prepare salad just before serving to keep basil fresh and nectarines firm. Balsamic glaze can be homemade by reducing balsamic vinegar until thickened.

Nutrition

Keywords: nectarine salad, basil caprese, summer salad, fresh mozzarella, balsamic glaze, easy salad recipe, light summer dish