Vibrant Nectarine Salad with Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette

Vibrant Nectarine Salad with Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette

Embrace the essence of summer with this exquisite Nectarine Salad, where sweet, juicy nectarines meet creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts, all layered on a bed of fresh mixed greens. Drizzled with a luscious homemade honey balsamic vinaigrette, every bite bursts with flavor and texture. This salad not only serves as a light and refreshing lunch but also dazzles as a side dish at barbecues and gatherings. Historically, salads have been a culinary staple across cultures, symbolizing freshness and health, making this dish a delightful homage to seasonal eating and vibrant living.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Mixed greens (6 cups, washed and dried)
  • Nectarines (3, pitted and sliced)
  • Goat cheese (4 ounces, crumbled)
  • Walnuts (1/2 cup, chopped)
  • Red onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced)
  • Extra virgin olive oil (1/4 cup)
  • Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons)
  • Honey (1 tablespoon)
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon, to taste)
  • Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the washed mixed greens with the sliced nectarines, crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and thinly sliced red onion.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well combined and emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  3. Drizzle the prepared honey balsamic vinaigrette over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
  4. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors. This salad is best enjoyed right after preparation, but feel free to refrigerate the dressing separately and toss when ready to serve.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Salad • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 0 minutes • Calories: 220 • Fat: 18g • Carbs: 14g • Protein: 5g • Sodium: 200mg • Sugar: 7g