Summer Nectarine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad Recipe

Welcome summer with this refreshing salad that combines the juicy sweetness of nectarines with the crisp crunch of cucumbers and the tang of tomatoes. This salad is a celebration of summer produce at its peak, with the added touch of fresh cilantro and creamy goat cheese to round out the flavors. It's a dish that's as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Photos of Summer Nectarine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this salad are commonly found at home during the summer season. However, one ingredient you might want to be aware of is goat cheese. It's a creamy, tangy cheese that's often sold in logs. You can find it in the cheese section of most supermarkets.

Ingredients for Summer Nectarine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad

Tomatoes: These are the base of your salad. Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best results.

Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch to the salad. Persian cucumbers are ideal because they're small and have thin skin, but regular cucumbers work just as well.

Nectarine: The star of the show. Pick a ripe, juicy nectarine for that perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.

Fresh cilantro: This herb adds a pop of fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the sweetness of the nectarine and the tang of the tomatoes.

Olive oil: Used to dress the salad. Choose a good-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

Goat cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy touch that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the nectarine and the crispness of the cucumber.

One reader, Antonella Goebel says:

This summer nectarine, tomato, and cucumber salad recipe is a delightful burst of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet nectarines, juicy tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers is simply refreshing. The addition of cilantro and goat cheese adds a unique twist. It's a perfect blend of summer goodness in every bite!

Antonella Goebel

Techniques Required for Making a Perfect Summer Salad

Mixing the salad: Combine the tomatoes, cucumber, nectarine, and cilantro in a large bowl and gently toss them together.

Adding the olive oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and gently stir to coat the ingredients evenly.

Sprinkling the goat cheese: Scatter the goat cheese over the salad as a finishing touch before serving.

How To Make Summer Nectarine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad

This cucumber salad recipe is a merry mix of bright and refreshing vegetables that is made more delicious by the addition of goat cheese. It’s the perfect summer food!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2pcstomatoescut into chunks
½cucumberpeeled, seeded, and diced
1largeripe nectarinediced
3tbspfresh cilantrochopped
1tbspolive oil
3tbspgoat cheesecrumbled

Instructions

Mix tomatoes, cucumber, nectarine, and cilantro together in a bowl.
Stir in olive oil gently.
Sprinkle goat cheese over salad.

Recipe Notes

1. Some good balsamic vinegar can be drizzled in with the olive oil. 2. Crumble the goat cheese in the package easily by stirring it with a small fork.

Nutrition

Calories: 86.16kcal
Fat: 5.45g
Saturated Fat: 1.74g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.93g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.50g
Carbohydrates: 7.90g
Fiber: 1.61g
Sugar: 5.33g
Protein: 2.78g
Cholesterol: 3.88mg
Sodium: 42.97mg
Calcium: 26.86mg
Potassium: 285.59mg
Iron: 0.57mg
Vitamin A: 61.17µg
Vitamin C: 11.79mg

Expert Tip for Elevating the Flavors in This Summer Salad

When preparing the nectarine, make sure to slice it thinly and evenly. This not only ensures that each bite of the salad has a balanced flavor, but also makes the salad more visually appealing. Additionally, when adding the olive oil, drizzle it slowly while stirring the salad to ensure it evenly coats all the ingredients. This enhances the overall taste of the salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Summer Salad Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare the ingredients in advance to save time when assembling the salad.

Use a mandoline: Slice the cucumber and nectarine quickly and uniformly using a mandoline for efficient prep.

Multi-task: While the salad is marinating, use the time to prepare other components of your meal to maximize efficiency.

Keep it simple: Stick to simple and fresh ingredients to minimize prep time and let the natural flavors shine through.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and tidy to streamline the cooking process and save time.

Invest in quality tools: Quality knives and kitchen tools can make prep work faster and more efficient, saving you time in the long run.

Substitute Ingredients For Summer Nectarine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad Recipe

tomatoes - Substitute with peaches: Peaches can provide a similar sweet and juicy flavor to the salad, complementing the other ingredients well.
cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can add a similar crisp and refreshing texture to the salad, and its mild flavor pairs nicely with the other ingredients.
nectarine - Substitute with peaches: Peaches can be a great alternative, offering a similar juicy and sweet flavor that complements the salad's other components.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro, adding a vibrant touch to the salad.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can offer a similar richness and depth of flavor to the salad, enhancing its overall taste.
goat cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese can provide a tangy and creamy element to the salad, similar to goat cheese, and pairs well with the other ingredients.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Delightful Summer Salad

Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing and dicing fruits and vegetables with precision.
Cutting board: Use a cutting board to provide a stable surface for chopping and slicing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is necessary for combining the tomatoes, cucumber, nectarine, and cilantro.
Whisk: A whisk can be used to gently stir in the olive oil for even distribution.
Serving platter: A serving platter is ideal for presenting the salad and showcasing its vibrant colors.
Cheese grater: If the goat cheese is not crumbled, a cheese grater can be used to grate it over the salad.

Interesting Trivia About Nectarines, Tomatoes, and Cucumbers

Nectarines are a great source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting the immune system. They also contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Is Making This Summer Salad Recipe Budget-Friendly?

This summer nectarine, tomato, and cucumber salad recipe is highly cost-effective for households. The ingredients are affordable and easily accessible, making it a budget-friendly option. The combination of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and ripe nectarines creates a delightful medley of flavors. The addition of goat cheese adds a touch of richness, elevating the dish. With an approximate cost of $10, this recipe offers a refreshing and nutritious option for a family of four. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Summer Salad Recipe Healthy?

The summer nectarine, tomato, and cucumber salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that offers a balance of flavors and health benefits. Let's break down the ingredients:

Tomatoes and cucumber provide a good source of hydration, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants.
Nectarines offer dietary fiber, vitamin C, and various beneficial plant compounds.
Cilantro adds a burst of flavor and contains antioxidants and vitamins.
Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Goat cheese provides protein, calcium, and healthy fats.

Overall, this salad is a nutritious choice, combining fresh fruits and vegetables with a moderate amount of healthy fats and protein.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this salad, consider the following suggestions:

Add a handful of leafy greens, such as spinach or arugula, to increase the fiber content and provide additional vitamins and minerals.
Include a sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds, like almonds or pumpkin seeds, for an extra crunch and a boost of healthy fats and protein.
Drizzle the salad with a homemade vinaigrette using olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs to add flavor without relying on store-bought dressings that may contain added sugars or preservatives.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add variety and potential health benefits. For example, mint or basil can provide additional antioxidants and a refreshing taste.

Editor's Opinion on This Refreshing Summer Salad

This summer nectarine, tomato, and cucumber salad is a delightful combination of fresh, vibrant flavors. The juicy nectarines and tomatoes complement the crisp cucumber, while the cilantro adds a burst of freshness. The goat cheese provides a creamy and tangy element, and the olive oil ties everything together beautifully. It's a simple yet elegant dish that captures the essence of summer. The flavors and textures work harmoniously, making it a perfect side dish for any summer meal or a light and refreshing standalone salad. It's a wonderful way to showcase the best of seasonal produce.

Enhance Your Summer Nectarine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Serve with a zesty lime and chili seasoning for a burst of flavor.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Create a refreshing salsa with diced mango, avocado, red onion, and lime juice for a tropical twist.

Caprese Skewers: Thread fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves onto skewers for a fun and elegant presentation.

Similar Refreshing Salad Recipes to Try This Summer

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use a mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender and top with melted cheese.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Grill or bake chicken breasts and top with a refreshing salsa made with mango, red onion, jalapeno, and lime juice.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Sauté mushrooms and onions, then stir in Arborio rice and slowly add broth until creamy and tender. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Honey Roasted Carrots: Toss carrots in honey, olive oil, and seasonings, then roast until caramelized and tender for a sweet and savory side dish.

Peach Cobbler: Combine fresh peaches with a cinnamon sugar mixture, top with a buttery biscuit topping, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With This Summer Salad

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce: Grilled salmon fillets topped with a tangy lemon dill sauce, served with a side of roasted vegetables. The perfect combination of fresh flavors and hearty protein.

Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil: Creamy and indulgent mushroom risotto drizzled with aromatic truffle oil, a luxurious dish that is sure to impress any dinner guest.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful and refreshing treat. Each spoonful is bursting with fruity flavors and satisfying textures.

Why trust this Summer Nectarine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The tomatoes and cucumbers provide a crisp and refreshing base, while the ripe nectarine adds a sweet and juicy element. The addition of cilantro brings a burst of herbaceous flavor, and the olive oil enhances the overall richness. The finishing touch of creamy goat cheese adds a luxurious creaminess. Trust in the vibrant colors and flavors of these ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying salad experience.

Head over to the Recipe Sharing section to share your thoughts and experiences with this refreshing Summer Nectarine, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad recipe!

FAQ:

What type of tomatoes should I use for this salad?

You can use any ripe and flavorful tomatoes for this salad. I recommend using vine-ripened tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

Can I substitute the goat cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese, fresh mozzarella, or even crumbled blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

How can I tell if the nectarine is ripe?

A ripe nectarine should have a fragrant aroma and yield slightly to gentle pressure when you press it with your fingers. Look for nectarines that have a vibrant color and avoid any that are overly firm or have blemishes.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply toss the ingredients together and add the olive oil and goat cheese just before serving for the freshest taste.

What can I serve this salad with?

This salad makes a refreshing side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or as a light accompaniment to a summer lunch. It's also delicious on its own as a light and healthy snack.