Arugula Nectarine Salad

This Arugula Nectarine Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly complements summer or fall gatherings. With its mix of peppery arugula, sweet nectarines, and crunchy walnuts, it’s not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. This salad is quick to prepare and takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a healthy side dish or a light meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a nutritious lunch option, this salad will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad is ready in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of arugula and nectarines provides a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad supports a balanced diet.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or main dish, perfect for any occasion.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors make it a beautiful addition to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Arugula Nectarine Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender or food processor: Essential for creating the smooth basil dressing that elevates the salad’s flavors.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space for tossing all ingredients without mess.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized while chopping fruits and nuts.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing nectarines and chopping walnuts.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 5 oz arugula
• 2 ripe nectarines (pitted and thinly sliced or chopped)
• 1/2 cup walnuts (roughly chopped)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 teaspoons maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt and freshly cracked black pepper

How to Make Arugula Nectarine Salad

Step 1: Assemble the Salad Ingredients

Begin by combining the arugula, nectarines, walnuts, and feta in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Basil Dressing

In your blender or food processor:
1. Add fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl.
2. Toss gently to combine everything well.
3. Serve immediately to enjoy fresh flavors!

How to Serve Arugula Nectarine Salad

This Arugula Nectarine Salad is a vibrant dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether it’s for a light lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or a complement to dinner, there are plenty of serving ideas to elevate your meal experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• A light lunch option: Enjoy this salad on its own for a nutritious midday meal.
• Perfect for picnics: Pack the salad in a jar for easy transport and serve it fresh outdoors.

Pair with Grilled Proteins

• Chicken skewers: The flavors of grilled chicken pair beautifully with the sweetness of nectarines.
• Grilled shrimp: Add some zest by serving alongside grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.

Accompanying Entrees

• Roasted turkey: This salad makes an excellent side with roasted turkey, enhancing the savory flavors.
• Stuffed bell peppers: Serve alongside stuffed bell peppers for a colorful and satisfying meal.

Garnishing Options

• Toasted seeds: Sprinkle some toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds on top for added crunch.
• Fresh herbs: Add extra basil or mint leaves as a garnish for an aromatic touch.

How to Perfect Arugula Nectarine Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Arugula Nectarine Salad, consider these simple tips.

• Choose ripe nectarines: Select nectarines that yield slightly when pressed. This ensures they are juicy and sweet.
• Use fresh arugula: Look for crisp, vibrant arugula leaves, which will enhance the salad’s overall freshness.
• Make dressing ahead: Prepare the basil dressing in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your salad before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Serve immediately: For optimal crunch, serve the salad right after tossing it with dressing.

Best Side Dishes for Arugula Nectarine Salad

Complement your Arugula Nectarine Salad with these delicious side dishes that bring balance and harmony to your table.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast – Juicy chicken seasoned simply enhances the flavors of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf provides protein and pairs well with the salad’s freshness.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add warmth and depth to your meal combination.
4. Chickpea Patties – Flavorful chickpea patties offer hearty satisfaction alongside this light salad.
5. Stuffed Zucchini Boats – These vegetable boats filled with grains or cheese create an appealing contrast.
6. Cucumber Raita – A cool yogurt-based dip that refreshes your palate when enjoyed with the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Arugula Nectarine Salad, avoid these common mishaps.

• Using Overripe Fruit: Overripe nectarines can make your salad mushy. Choose ripe but firm nectarines for the best texture.
• Skipping the Dressing: A salad without dressing can taste bland. Don’t skip this step; the basil dressing adds essential flavor!
• Chopping Ingredients Too Small: If you chop the ingredients too finely, they may lose their crunch and freshness. Keep pieces larger for better texture.
• Not Mixing Well: Failing to thoroughly toss the salad can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Mix well to ensure every bite is delicious.
• Using Stale Nuts: Nuts that aren’t fresh can ruin the taste of your salad. Always use freshly roasted or toasted walnuts for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 2-3 days for best freshness.

Freezing Arugula Nectarine Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the fresh ingredients.
• If necessary, consider freezing only the dressing in a separate container.

Reheating Arugula Nectarine Salad

• Oven: Not applicable for salads; it’s best enjoyed cold.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it will wilt the greens and change textures.
• Stovetop: Not suitable for reheating; serve fresh from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Arugula Nectarine Salad.

Can I use other fruits in my Arugula Nectarine Salad?

Yes! You can substitute nectarines with peaches or plums for a different flavor profile.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prepare all ingredients and store them separately until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

How do I customize my Arugula Nectarine Salad?

Feel free to add other toppings like goat cheese, avocado, or seasonal fruits to personalize your salad.

What can I pair with this salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Arugula Nectarine Salad is not only visually appealing but also versatile and easy to prepare. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or cheese. Give it a try at your next gathering!

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Arugula Nectarine Salad

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• Author: Florence
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Brighten up your dining table with this refreshing Arugula Nectarine Salad, a delightful dish perfect for any summer or fall gathering. Featuring the peppery bite of arugula complemented by the sweet juiciness of ripe nectarines and the crunch of walnuts, this salad is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. With a quick prep time of under 15 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for those busy days when you crave something light yet satisfying. Drizzled with a fragrant basil dressing, this salad is versatile enough to serve as a healthy side dish or a standalone meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a nutritious lunch, this vibrant salad will leave everyone wanting more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 oz arugula
• 2 ripe nectarines (pitted and thinly sliced or chopped)
• 1/2 cup walnuts (roughly chopped)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 teaspoons maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the arugula, sliced nectarines, chopped walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
2. In a blender or food processor, blend fresh basil leaves, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Tossing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Choose firm yet ripe nectarines for optimal sweetness and texture. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite nuts or substituting nectarines with peaches or plums. Prepare the dressing ahead of time to allow flavors to meld.