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Fresh Honey Balsamic Nectarine Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese

honey balsamic nectarine arugula salad - featured image
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A quick and easy summer salad featuring peppery arugula, juicy nectarines, creamy goat cheese, and a sweet-tangy honey balsamic dressing. Perfect for light dinners, brunches, or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh arugula (about 120g), washed and dried
  • 2 medium ripe nectarines, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz (115g) goat cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons honey (preferably raw or local)
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (aged if possible)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • Fresh basil or mint, a sprinkle (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the nectarines. Slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick.
  2. Rinse the arugula leaves under cold water, then spin or pat dry thoroughly.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk or shake together honey, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. If using nuts, toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened.
  5. In a large salad bowl, combine arugula and nectarine slices. Drizzle half the dressing over the greens and gently toss to coat.
  6. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese evenly over the salad. Add toasted nuts if using. Drizzle remaining dressing over the top.
  7. Give the salad one gentle toss to mix cheese and nuts in but keep nectarines visible. Serve immediately.

Notes

Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing. Slice nectarines just before serving to prevent browning. Toast nuts in advance and store airtight to keep crunchy. For dairy-free, omit goat cheese or use plant-based cheese and replace honey with maple syrup for vegan dressing.

Nutrition

Keywords: nectarine salad, honey balsamic dressing, arugula salad, goat cheese salad, summer salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/fresh-honey-balsamic-nectarine-arugula-salad-recipe-easy-perfect-summer-salad-with-goat-cheese/