This salad is a fantastic mix of sweet grilled nectarines, creamy burrata cheese, and salty prosciutto. It’s bright, fresh, and perfect for a summer day!
Trust me, when nectarines hit the grill, they become even more delicious. I could almost eat this salad for every meal! Toss in some greens, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Nectarines: Use ripe nectarines for sweetness. If they’re not available, peaches are a great substitute. They have a similar texture and flavor when grilled.
Burrata Cheese: Burrata is creamy and luscious, perfect for this salad. If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella or goat cheese works well as alternatives.
Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto adds a salty kick. If you want a non-pork option, try turkey or chicken prosciutto, or you can skip it entirely for a vegetarian salad.
Cherry Tomatoes: Any type of small, sweet tomato can work. If they’re out of season, consider using sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I love using fresh basil or mint, but feel free to mix them or use whatever’s available. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch, just use less!
How Do You Grill Nectarines Perfectly?
Grilling nectarines is key for adding depth to this salad. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps get nice grill marks without overcooking.
- Brush the nectarines lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Keep the skin on for flavor and texture.
- Grill the flesh side down first. You’ll want to grill for about 3-4 minutes; look for nice char marks. Flip them for just 1-2 minutes to soften the skin slightly.
Remember, the goal is to heat them through and caramelize the sugars for a sweet taste while keeping the texture intact!
Easy Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted
- 6 ounces burrata cheese
- 6 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors if possible)
- 1 cup mixed salad greens or baby spinach
- 1/2 cup fresh herbs (such as basil, mint, or parsley), chopped
- 1 cup dark cherries, pitted and halved (optional)
- 4 slices rustic bread or baguette, for grilling
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Coarse sea salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and grill the ingredients, making it a quick and delightful dish perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will help achieve those beautiful grill marks on the nectarines and bread.
2. Grilling the Nectarines:
Lightly brush the halved nectarines with olive oil. Place them on the grill, flesh side down. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until nicely marked and slightly softened. Flip them to grill the skin side for about 1-2 minutes. Once done, set them aside.
3. Grilling the Bread:
Next, take your slices of rustic bread and brush them lightly with olive oil as well. Grill the bread until it’s toasted and has char marks, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove it from the grill and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
4. Assembling the Salad:
On a large serving platter or individual plates, lay down a base of mixed salad greens. Slice the grilled nectarines into thick wedges and scatter them over the greens. Tear the burrata into chunks and place it evenly across the salad.
5. Adding the Final Touches:
Next, arrange the prosciutto slices in a lovely display and add them to the salad. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and the dark cherries if you’re using them. Then, scatter the grilled bread pieces on top or around the salad.
6. Seasoning the Salad:
Finish by sprinkling the chopped fresh herbs over everything. Drizzle with extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar if desired. Season with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
It’s time to serve your beautiful salad! Enjoy the blend of smoky grilled nectarines, creamy burrata, salty prosciutto, and fresh herbs. It’s a delightful summer dish that’s bound to impress!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Nectarine Burrata Prosciutto Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Nectarines?
Absolutely! Peaches and plums are great substitutes for nectarines. They grill up nicely and offer a similar sweetness, making them perfect for this salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto. You can replace it with additional nuts or seeds like toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and nutrition.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep some components ahead! Grill the nectarines and bread earlier in the day, and store them in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving for optimal freshness and flavor.
