Fresh Grilled Nectarine Caprese Salad
A fresh and easy summer side salad featuring smoky grilled nectarines, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a tangy-sweet balsamic reduction.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 medium-sized fresh nectarines, ripe but firm
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced (buffalo mozzarella preferred)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: toasted pine nuts for crunch
- Optional: arugula or baby spinach for extra greens
Instructions
- Wash and halve the nectarines, remove pits, and slice each half into 3-4 wedges.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
- Lightly brush nectarine slices with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill nectarines flesh side down for 2-3 minutes until grill marks appear and nectarines soften, then flip and grill skin side for 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcooking.
- While nectarines grill, pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add honey or brown sugar if desired, and simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Slice mozzarella into rounds roughly the same thickness as nectarine wedges.
- On a serving platter, alternate slices of grilled nectarine and mozzarella, tucking fresh basil leaves between layers.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction generously over the salad.
- If using, scatter toasted pine nuts and/or greens on top.
Notes
Do not overcook nectarines to avoid mushiness; brush nectarines with olive oil instead of the grill to prevent sticking. Watch balsamic reduction closely to prevent burning. Let balsamic cool slightly before drizzling for best texture. For vegan version, substitute mozzarella with plant-based cheese and honey with maple syrup or omit sweetener.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 7
Keywords: grilled nectarine, Caprese salad, summer side dish, balsamic reduction, fresh mozzarella, basil, easy salad, grilled fruit salad