Get ready to fall in love with Arugula Nectarine Salad, a vibrant dish that’s absolutely bursting with color, flavor, and freshness! This delightful salad pairs the peppery bite of baby arugula with sweet, juicy nectarines, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted almonds, all kissed with a tangy lemon-honey dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, refreshingly simple, and perfect for a quick lunch, a showstopping side, or an easy crowd-pleaser for any summer gathering.

Arugula Nectarine Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This salad relies on just a handful of well-chosen ingredients, each one carefully selected to bring its own unique flair. Don’t skip any of them—the combination is what makes this salad sing, and each element is essential for that perfect bite!

Fresh arugula: Peppery and vibrant, arugula forms the perfect leafy base that ties all the salad components together.
Ripe nectarines: Choose nectarines that give slightly to the touch; their sweet juiciness is key for that burst of summer flavor.
Crumbled goat cheese: The creamy tanginess of goat cheese balances both the peppery greens and sweet fruit beautifully.
Toasted sliced almonds: Almonds add a wonderful crunch and a hint of nuttiness—try lightly toasting them for extra depth.
Thinly sliced red onion: A scattering of red onion lends a subtle sharpness without overpowering the salad.
Extra virgin olive oil: Cold-pressed and fruity, olive oil forms the base of the salad’s bright dressing.
Fresh lemon juice: Lemon gives the dressing zing and keeps the flavors lively and light.
Honey: Just a drizzle softens the citrus and brings all the elements into delicious harmony.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Never underestimate the difference good seasoning makes; it brings all the flavors into balance.

How to Make Arugula Nectarine Salad

Step 1: Whisk the Dressing

Start with the dressing—this is what ties the whole Arugula Nectarine Salad together! In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, and a generous pinch each of salt and black pepper. You want the mixture to become silky and slightly opaque as the honey dissolves. Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if you like your dressing a bit more tangy or sweet.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

Grab your biggest, prettiest salad bowl and lay down a bed of fresh arugula. Add the sliced nectarines (nestle them in so their juices mingle lightly with the leaves), followed by generous crumbles of goat cheese. Sprinkle on the toasted sliced almonds for crunch, then scatter thin slices of red onion for that bit of zip and color.

Step 3: Dress and Toss

Drizzle the bright lemon-honey dressing evenly over the salad. Using clean hands or salad servers, gently toss everything together. You want every bite to have a little bit of everything—arugula, sweet nectarine, creamy cheese, crunchy almonds, and a hit of onion.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

For the absolute best texture and flavor, serve your Arugula Nectarine Salad straight away. If you let it sit, the arugula can wilt and the nuts might lose their crunch. Fresh is best here!

How to Serve Arugula Nectarine Salad

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra toasted nuts or an extra drizzle of honey over the top right before serving adds a touch of sparkle and elegance. For a burst of color, a little fresh basil or mint can really liven things up. If you’re feeling fancy, a grind of pink peppercorn gives a floral finish that sets off the sweet and peppery bite of the salad.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside grilled chicken or fish, classic summer pastas, or even a rustic loaf of bread. The lively flavors of Arugula Nectarine Salad work wonders as a palate cleanser with anything rich or savory, making it a natural partner for a picnic spread or barbecue table.

Creative Ways to Present

For something special, try piling the salad atop crostini or serving it in individual glasses for a chic starter. If you want a heartier meal, mound the salad onto a platter and add grilled shrimp or sliced steak for a more substantial main course—all without losing the delightfully fresh spirit of Arugula Nectarine Salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Arugula Nectarine Salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, if you know you’ll have leftovers, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving. The arugula wilts quickly once dressed, but undressed salad can stay fresh for up to one day.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad. Fresh arugula and nectarines simply don’t thaw well, and the textures will suffer. Enjoy this salad fresh for the best flavor and crunch.

Reheating

Since Arugula Nectarine Salad is meant to be served crisp and cold, reheating isn’t necessary or advised. If made ahead, just take it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to take off the chill and toss with dressing at the last minute.

FAQs

Can I use peaches instead of nectarines in Arugula Nectarine Salad?

Absolutely! Peaches work beautifully and bring a very similar texture and sweetness. Choose firm, ripe peaches and slice them thin. The salad will retain its summery charm.

What other cheese can I substitute for goat cheese?

Feta is a wonderful alternative if you prefer a more crumbly, salty cheese. For a milder taste, try ricotta salata or even small cubes of fresh mozzarella. Each option brings a twist to the classic Arugula Nectarine Salad.

Is this salad suitable for meal prepping?

Yes—with one caveat. For best results, prep all the ingredients and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. Toss everything together just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Definitely! Omit the goat cheese or use your favorite plant-based cheese, and swap honey for maple syrup or agave. You’ll still experience all the fresh, lively flavors of Arugula Nectarine Salad.

How can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are excellent additions to turn this salad into a satisfying main dish. They play nicely with the other flavors without overpowering the delicate taste of the nectarines and arugula.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a new seasonal favorite, give Arugula Nectarine Salad a try! Its crisp, juicy, and creamy combination has a way of winning over everyone who tastes it. Don’t be surprised if it finds a permanent spot in your warm-weather rotation!

Arugula Nectarine Salad Recipe

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4.8 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This refreshing Arugula Nectarine Salad combines the peppery taste of arugula with sweet, juicy nectarines, creamy goat cheese, crunchy almonds, and zesty dressing for a delightful summer dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Arugula Salad:

5 cups fresh arugula

Nectarines:

2 ripe nectarines, sliced

Goat Cheese:

1/2 cup crumbled

Almonds:

1/3 cup toasted sliced

Red Onion:

1/4 cup thinly sliced

Dressing:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp honey
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine arugula, nectarines, goat cheese, almonds, and red onion.
Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately.