Description
The Cherry Tomato, Nectarine and Mozzarella Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish combining juicy cherry tomatoes and sweet nectarines with creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil. Ideal for warm days, light lunches, or as a colorful side, this salad balances natural sweetness with creamy richness and a hint of acidity from balsamic vinegar, offering a quick and easy way to celebrate seasonal produce.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Fresh Produce
- 1 pint ripe cherry tomatoes, rinsed
- 2 fresh nectarines, sliced into bite-sized wedges
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, rinsed
Dairy
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls or slices, torn into smaller pieces if balls
Pantry
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cool water. Slice the nectarines into bite-sized wedges, and if using mozzarella balls, tear them into smaller pieces for easy mixing.
- Combine Fresh Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cherry tomatoes, nectarines, mozzarella, and basil leaves to ensure even distribution of flavors in every forkful.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar over the ingredients. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, then toss lightly to coat without breaking the fruit or cheese.
- Serve Immediately: For the freshest taste and texture, serve the Cherry Tomato, Nectarine and Mozzarella Salad right away, letting the vibrant flavors shine through.
Notes
- Choose peak ripeness for cherry tomatoes and nectarines to maximize sweetness and juiciness.
- Don’t overdress the salad; start with minimal olive oil and vinegar and add more if needed to avoid sogginess.
- Toss gently to keep mozzarella intact and nectarines from bruising.
- If making ahead, chill the salad for about 30 minutes to meld flavors without losing freshness.
- Add basil leaves just before serving to preserve vibrant color and aroma.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg