This Arugula Nectarine Salad is a light, refreshing, and vibrant summer dish that perfectly balances sweet, peppery, and tangy flavors. It combines fresh arugula, juicy nectarines, creamy goat cheese or feta, and crunchy nuts, all brought together with a zesty vinaigrette. Ideal as a side dish or a light lunch, this salad is as beautiful as it is delicious.
A Brief History
Salads have long been part of global cuisines, but fruit-and-greens combinations gained modern popularity in the 20th century with the rise of fusion and seasonal cooking. Arugula, native to the Mediterranean, has a peppery bite that contrasts beautifully with stone fruits like nectarines. Pairing sweet fruit with bitter or spicy greens is a classic technique dating back to ancient Roman times, reinvented for modern palates.
Why You’ll Love It
- Flavorful Balance: Sweet nectarines, tangy cheese, and peppery arugula make each bite exciting.
- Quick and Fresh: Comes together in just minutes—no cooking required.
- Seasonal & Healthy: Great way to use summer produce and boost your veggie intake.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or what’s in your fridge.
Recipe (Serves 2–4)
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 2 ripe nectarines, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Balsamic glaze or lemon vinaigrette, to taste
For Lemon Vinaigrette (optional):
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large salad bowl, add arugula, sliced nectarines, cheese, nuts, and red onion (if using).
- If making the vinaigrette, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Drizzle vinaigrette or balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Swap the greens: Try baby spinach or mixed spring greens if arugula isn’t your favorite.
- Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a complete meal.
- Fruit swaps: Use peaches, plums, or strawberries when nectarines aren’t in season.
- Cheese options: Blue cheese or shaved Parmesan also work beautifully.
Ingredients
Method
- Toss arugula, nectarines, red onion, and nuts in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle with crumbled cheese.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or vinaigrette right before serving.
- Serve immediately as a light lunch or refreshing side.
For another refreshing salad option, try our Peach and Prosciutto Salad, which pairs sweet peaches with savory prosciutto.
Enhance your salad experience with our Dandelion Pesto, a bold and nutritious twist on a classic sauce.
Looking for a hearty main to accompany your salad? Our Portobello Mushroom Burgers are a satisfying vegetarian option.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but wait to dress the salad until just before serving to avoid sogginess
Feta, burrata, or even a dollop of ricotta can be great substitutes
Look for slightly soft fruit that yields gently to pressure and smells fragrant.
Yes! Just pack the dressing separately and add it right before serving.
Final Thoughts
The Arugula Nectarine Salad is the ultimate summer salad—vibrant, simple, and bursting with fresh flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or an impressive side for your next gathering, this salad delivers both taste and beauty in every bite.