Nectarine And Quinoa Salad With Feta

This Nectarine And Quinoa Salad works overtime, packing in delicious greens, juicy nectarines, and protein-packed quinoa to create a delicious main or side dish. If you're looking for a way to work more fruits and veggies into your diet, this is it!

You know those recipes that seem so natural and effortlessly simple that you wonder how on earth it took you so long to pull the flavors together? This is just such a recipe. And one that happened completely on accident, out of necessity.

A few weeks ago we had some family in town and decided to throw a last-minute BBQ for them. We also happened to be heading to the mountains that following weekend so I was trying to use up some of our produce, and that is how this salad was born. 

I took stock of what we had (waayyy too many nectarines and a lot of basil and feta), added in a few pantry staples (sliced almonds, quinoa) threw together a quick citrus dressing and that’s it – it was done!

I threw it all atop a mess of spring mix (arugula could also work well here) and it was the perfect summery salad that I never knew I needed.

So, What Goes Into This Nectarine Quinoa Salad?

Light, but filling, and stocked with all the flavors of summer (is it summer already?) - basil, nectarines, and lemon. The quinoa, almonds, and cheese add a bit of weight to the salad to easily make it a light main dish if you wish, or a substantial side.

• Nectarines. These are the stars of the show. Find ones that are ripe and juicy, but not too soft.
• Spring Mix. You can try some variations with the greens here - arugula would also work well.
• Basil. If you've never put fresh herbs in your salad, you're missing out. The basil here gives this salad a whole other dimension flavorwise.
• Cooked Quinoa. These grains provide texture and weight to the salad. To add a bit more depth of flavor, try toasting the quinoa before cooking. It brings out the oils and the natural nutty flavor of the grain.
• Sliced Almonds. For some extra CRUNCH!
• Feta Cheese. The sharpness of the feta pairs beautifully with the sweet peaches and herby basil.
• Citrus Vinegarette. The perfect light dressing to accompany this salad and let the main ingredients shine.

How To Make It

Making this salad couldn't be easier. Start by chopping your fruit. Then just combine the nectarines, greens, basil, quinoa, and almonds. Make a simple vinagarete out of lemon, honey and olive oil, then drizzle it over the salad and toss. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve! A beautiful and delicious meal in under 10 minutes!

It’s a great vegetarian dish (or vegan, if you cut the cheese). Or, if you’d like to make it a main, add some grilled chicken and you’ve got yourself a meal.

We ate this on our back porch, the sun setting, Rosé sparkling, lights twinkling, tunes blazing, surrounded by loving family, and I just felt one thing:  ahhhhh…..summer has finally arrived. 

You’ll thank yourself when you make this salad. And then you’ll wonder how it was that you never thought of it earlier.

If you try this Nectarine And Quinoa Salad, I'd love to hear how you liked it in the comments below. Or, share a pic with me on Instagram and tag #frontrangefed!

More Summery Salad Recipes

• Cucumber Salad With Basil, Feta, Chickpeas And Cranberries
• Chopped Zucchini Salad With Parmesan And Herbs
• Chickpea Salad With Carrots And Dates
• Peach Caprese Salad With Roasted Pistachios
• Spinach, Strawberry, Goat Cheese And Candied Walnut Salad
• Chickpea And Veggie Salad With Dill Dressing

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