There’s nothing quite like the sweet scent of grilled nectarines perfuming the summer air, a reminder that the season of fresh produce is in full swing. As I fired up the grill, I couldn’t help but recall the sun-drenched picnics with friends, where vibrant salads took center stage. That’s how I stumbled upon this delightful Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad. It’s a perfect harmony of flavors—juicy nectarines, creamy burrata, and savory prosciutto come together to create a dish that’s not just easy to prepare but also impressively elegant. The zesty lemon herb vinaigrette dances over the ingredients, making every bite feel like a warm embrace of summer sunshine.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply want to jazz up your weeknight dinner, this salad hits all the right notes. And for my vegetarian friends, don’t fret! You can easily leave out the prosciutto or swap it with roasted chickpeas for a hearty twist. Let’s dive into a bowl of this fresh goodness and stir up some joy in our kitchens!
Why is Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad a Must-Try?
Summer Freshness: Experience the flavors of summer with juicy nectarines and fresh greens.
Versatile: Perfect as a side for BBQs or a light lunch—the customizable variations will impress your guests.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, even on the busiest days!
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy burrata and zesty vinaigrette creates an irresistible taste.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this salad is a guilt-free indulgence.
For more delightful summer ideas, check out my post on healthy grilling recipes.
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for this refreshing dish!
For the Salad
• Nectarines – Choose ripe nectarines for juicy sweetness that brings summer to life.
• Burrata Cheese – This creamy cheese adds richness; if unavailable, fresh mozzarella is a great substitute.
• Prosciutto – Adds a savory, salty kick; simply omit for a delightful vegetarian option.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Offering freshness and acidity, they enhance the salad’s overall flavor—any small tomato variety works!
• Heirloom Tomatoes – Provide a colorful variety and texture; regular tomatoes can be substituted if necessary.
• Fresh Cherries – Sweet and tart, they complement the salad beautifully; you can swap with peaches in the off-season.
• Mixed Baby Spring Greens – A crisp base for your salad; feel free to use spinach or kale if preferred.
• Finishing Salt & Black Pepper – A sprinkle enhances overall flavors; opt for good quality sea salt for the best taste.
For the Vinaigrette
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Bright acidity gives life to the dressing; lime juice can offer a delightful twist.
• White Wine Vinegar – Balances the richness of the cheese; apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute.
• Lemon Zest – Adds fragrant citrus notes; lime zest can also be used for a fresh alternative.
• Fresh Oregano, Mint, Lemon Thyme – These herbs provide aromatic notes; you can switch with other herbs like basil for a unique flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – This rich oil serves as a fruity base; a lighter oil can create a more neutral dressing.
• Pinch of Salt & Pepper – Don’t forget to adjust to taste—they’re essential for bringing the dressing together.
Dive into the vibrant world of summer with this Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad!
How to Make Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your fruits caramelize beautifully while retaining their juicy texture.
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Grill the nectarines and cherries until lightly caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side. You want those gorgeous grill marks and a hint of sweetness coming through.
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Combine the grilled nectarines, cherries, burrata, cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, and mixed spring greens in a large bowl. Toss gently to keep the burrata intact.
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Whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients until emulsified. This zesty lemon herb vinaigrette will elevate the salad’s fresh flavors.
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Drizzle the vinaigrette over your salad mixture and gently toss to combine, ensuring every component gets a touch of that fresh dressing.
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Serve the salad topped with prosciutto if using, and add finishing salt and black pepper to taste. Get ready to enjoy this summer delight!
Optional: Garnish with extra herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Variations
Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs, creating your own summer masterpiece!
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Vegetarian Option: Omit the prosciutto and swap it with roasted chickpeas for protein-packed goodness. This makes it just as satisfying!
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Seasonal Swap: Substitute nectarines with ripe peaches or juicy plums based on what’s in season—each fruit offers a unique twist.
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Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts for an extra layer of crunch and nutrition that beautifully complements the creamy burrata.
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Herb Medley: While oregano and thyme shine in the vinaigrette, feel free to include fresh basil or parsley for a refreshing herbal kick.
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Add Heat: Spice things up with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha on top for those who like a little kick in their salad!
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Creamy Alternative: If burrata’s not available, try creamy goat cheese or feta for a tangy flavor that pairs deliciously with the sweet fruits.
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Fruit Boost: Toss in some sliced strawberries or blueberries for an added burst of sweetness and color—it creates a berry delightful medley!
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Gluten-Free Goodness: Ensure your dressing and ingredients are confirmed gluten-free while you enjoy this dish worry-free.
Embrace your creativity and savor the flavors of summer!
Expert Tips for Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
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Choose Ripe Fruits: Opt for ripe nectarines and cherries to enjoy their maximum sweetness and juiciness—this salad is all about fresh, vibrant flavors.
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Perfect Grilling Time: Grill nectarines and cherries for just 2-3 minutes per side; overcooking can make them mushy, so keep an eye on them for optimal texture.
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Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs in your vinaigrette for the best flavor; dried herbs won’t deliver the same vibrant taste needed for this grilled nectarine burrata prosciutto salad.
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Easy Vegetarian Swap: For a delicious vegetarian version, simply omit the prosciutto and consider adding roasted chickpeas for a satisfying protein boost.
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Keep Dressing Separate: If prepping in advance, store the vinaigrette separately to keep the greens crisp until serving; this will prevent sogginess.
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Storage Advice: Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It may release some water but will maintain its flavor.
What to Serve with Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that enhance the vibrant flavors of this summer salad.
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Grilled Bread: Perfect for soaking up the zesty vinaigrette, the charred edges add a satisfying crunch to each bite of salad.
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Crispy White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully—its acidity complements the sweetness of the nectarines.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring a rustic flavor, creating a heartier meal while maintaining the fresh essence of summer.
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Quinoa or Couscous: Adding a side of fluffy quinoa or couscous enhances fiber content and offers a nutty note that pairs effortlessly with creamy burrata.
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Fruit Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note with a refreshing sorbet—a scoop of peach or lemon will mirror the salad’s fruity notes beautifully.
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Herbed Goat Cheese: A small platter of herbed goat cheese can entice your guests as a perfect appetizer, boosting tangy flavors that dance with the salad.
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Pistachio Cookies: For dessert, these nutty treats provide a delightful contrast in texture, with a hint of sweetness to balance the salad’s savory notes.
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Sparkling Water: For a refreshing cleanse between bites, crisp sparkling water infused with lemon or mint keeps the palate invigorated.
Storage Tips for Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It may release moisture but retains its flavorful essence.
Dressing: If you prep in advance, keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve. This maintains the freshness of the mixed greens.
Freeze: For best quality, freeze grilled fruit separately if you have leftovers. Avoid freezing the entire salad, especially with burrata, as it alters texture.
Reheating: If you wish to enjoy leftovers, gently toss the salad and allow it to come to room temperature for a refreshed experience. Enjoy your Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad with its summer brilliance!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can grill the nectarines and cherries up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow them to cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container to maintain their juicy texture. Additionally, you can prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time—store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. The greens and burrata should be added just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. When ready to enjoy, just toss the grilled fruits, greens, and burrata together, drizzle with the prepared vinaigrette, and top with prosciutto for a delightful meal that feels effortless. Enjoy the flavors of summer even on your busiest days!
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best nectarines for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for ripe nectarines that are slightly soft to the touch, indicating their juiciness. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel hard, as this suggests they’re not ripe yet. A sweet aroma can also indicate freshness—trust your senses!
What is the best way to store leftovers of the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the salad will release some water, but it will still taste fabulous. Just give it a gentle toss before serving again!
Can I freeze the Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad?
It’s best to freeze the grilled nectarines and cherries separately, as the burrata cheese and mixed greens won’t hold up well in the freezer. Place the grilled fruit in a sealed freezer bag, and it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight and add fresh ingredients before serving.
What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Very important to consider! This salad is naturally gluten-free, but be mindful if you have dairy allergies since burrata is a dairy product. You can substitute it with a vegan cheese option or omit it entirely for a lighter salad. For nut allergies, skip any nut additions, and feel free to customize the herb selection based on what you enjoy!
Why did my nectarines become mushy when grilling?
Ah, I’ve been there! Mushiness often occurs when nectarines are grilled for too long. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat, flipping them once they develop those beautiful grill marks. This way, they remain juicy yet retain their structure—perfect for your salad!
Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad for Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your fruits caramelize beautifully while retaining their juicy texture.
- Grill the nectarines and cherries until lightly caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Combine the grilled nectarines, cherries, burrata, cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, and mixed spring greens in a large bowl. Toss gently.
- Whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients until emulsified.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over your salad mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Serve the salad topped with prosciutto if using, and add finishing salt and black pepper to taste.
