This fresh salad brings together juicy grilled nectarines, crunchy greens, and thin slices of prosciutto, topped with creamy burrata cheese. It’s a delightful mix of sweet and savory!
You can really impress your friends with this dish, and they’ll think you spent hours on it! I love how simple it is—just grill, toss, and serve for a lovely meal. 🍑🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Nectarines: Fresh, ripe nectarines are key for this salad. If you can’t find them, peaches work beautifully as a substitute. Both fruits add a sweet, juicy element that’s hard to beat!
Prosciutto: This salty cured meat adds amazing flavor. If you’re looking for something lower in salt, try turkey bacon or even a slice of smoked salmon for a different twist.
Burrata Cheese: Creamy burrata is delicious, but you can also use fresh mozzarella if you can’t find it. While mozzarella isn’t as creamy, it’ll still add a lovely texture to the salad.
Mixed Greens: I love using a mix of greens for different textures and flavors. You can also use just romaine or even baby kale, depending on your preference!
Nuts: Pine nuts or walnuts add crunch and richness. You could also skip them altogether or use seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for a nut-free option.
How Do I Grill Nectarines Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling nectarines is a great way to bring out their natural sweetness, but it can be tricky to know when to take them off the grill. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This ensures a nice char without cooking them too fast.
- Brush the cut sides of the nectarines with oil. This prevents sticking.
- Grill them cut side down first for about 3-4 minutes. Look for nice grill marks.
- Flip and grill for another 2 minutes. They should be soft but not mushy.
Keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfect to overcooked quickly. If they’re slightly firm when you take them off, they will continue to soften as they cool!
Grilled Nectarine Prosciutto Salad with Burrata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 8 oz)
For the Toppings:
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for dressing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of grilling time, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up for lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will help get those beautiful grill marks on your nectarines!
2. Grill the Nectarines:
Brush the halved nectarines with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper. Place the nectarines cut side down on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the fruit becomes slightly softened. Carefully flip them over and grill for another 2 minutes. Once done, remove the nectarines from the grill and let them cool slightly.
3. Toss the Salad Greens:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if you’re using it. Toss until the greens are lightly coated.
4. Assemble the Salad:
Slice the grilled nectarines into wedges. Take your dressed greens and arrange them on serving plates. Top the greens with the sliced nectarines and the prosciutto, layering them beautifully.
5. Add the Burrata:
Tear the burrata cheese into pieces and distribute it evenly on top of the salad. This creamy cheese adds a wonderful richness to the dish!
6. Finish with Toppings:
If you like, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for added crunch. Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the salad for a touch of sweetness, and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in right away while the salad is fresh and the flavors are bright! This salad perfectly blends the smoky sweetness of the grilled nectarines, the salty prosciutto, and the creamy burrata. Enjoy your deliciously vibrant meal!
FAQ for Grilled Nectarine Prosciutto Salad with Burrata
Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Nectarines?
Absolutely! Peaches are a fantastic substitute and will provide a similar sweet and juicy flavor. You could also try plums or even grilled pineapple for a tropical twist!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep some components ahead! You can grill the nectarines and prepare the dressing a few hours in advance. Just wait to assemble the salad until shortly before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the salad (without the dressing) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep everything fresh, separately store the burrata and any extra dressing, adding them back before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can easily modify the recipe by omitting the prosciutto and burrata. Instead, try adding grilled zucchini or asparagus for depth, and swap in some avocado for creaminess. You can also use a tangy vegan cheese or omit the cheese entirely.
