This Nectarine Caprese Salad is a classic caprese with an untraditional twist, with the additions of sweet nectarines, crisp cucumbers, and a vibrant pesto dressing. Topped with a sweet balsamic glaze and flaky salt, this delicious summer salad is surprisingly simple and absolutely satisfying!

This Nectarine Caprese Salad is truly summer perfection! Admittedly, it’s a bit untraditional with the addition of crisp cucumbers and sweet nectarines, but that’s what makes it such a fun and refreshing salad!

All the fruits and veggies are tossed with fresh mozzarella pearls and a pesto vinaigrette, which totally elevates the flavor. Especially if using a homemade pesto like my lemon pesto or nut-free pesto.

Enjoy as an appetizer or as a side or entree salad with the addition of some protein, like grilled chicken, shrimp, or pesto crusted salmon.

Why this Nectarine Caprese Salad Recipe is SO Good!

It’s delicious!
Classic caprese salad is given an untraditional twist with cucumbers and nectarines.
The cucumbers add a refreshing crispness, making the salad not too heavy.
Sweetness from the nectarines pairs perfectly with the herby, tangy pesto salad dressing.
There are so many complementary flavors and textures, making this salad incredibly satisfying.
It keeps well and can be made ahead.
You need less than 10 ingredients to make a nectarine caprese salad!

Ingredients Needed

For a full ingredient list with quantities, please check out the recipe card at the bottom of this post!

ingredients to make nectarine caprese salad

Nectarines: these sweet flavors work so well in a caprese!
Cucumbers: untraditional, but they add a hydrating, refreshing, crispness that makes the salad.
Tomatoes: a caprese classic!
Mozzarella: use mozzarella pearls or chop larger pieces of fresh mozzarella.
Basil: fresh basil is a key component of a caprese.
Pesto Vinaigrette: all you need is pesto, white wine vinegar, and olive oil.
Toppings: while optional, I highly suggest topping with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and sprinkle of flaky salt.

Step-by-Step Directions

For complete instructions, please check out the recipe card at the bottom of this post!

Add nectarines, cucumbers, tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls to a bowl and toss to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk the pesto dressing.
Drizzle the pesto dressing over the salad, add the fresh basil, and toss to combine.
Place on a platter, and if desired, top with a balsamic glaze and a drizzle of flaky sea salt (I highly recommend!).

Expert Tips

Try to cut the nectarines, cucumbers, and tomatoes into pieces similarly sized as the mozzarella pearls. This gives chopped salad vibes and allows for more a more even bite.
Use smaller basil leaves if available. If not, tear or julienne larger basil leaves.
I suggest using a seedless cucumber, such as an English cucumber or small Persian or beit alpha cucumbers. If not, scrape the seeds out of the cucumber before chopping.
I highly recommend topping with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of flaky salt. It puts a finishing polish on the salad, for taste and appearance.

Substitutions & Variations

For a dairy-free or vegan option, use a vegan pesto and substitute a vegan fresh mozzarella (Miyoko’s makes a cashew milk-based fresh “mozzarella”). Alternatively, you can omit the mozzarella and use a marinated tofu or chickpeas.
You can use white or yellow nectarines.
No nectarines? Try peaches!
For a little heat, add a 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing, or serve with a drizzle of sriracha.

Storage, Freezing, & Reheating

This Nectarine Caprese Salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prep certain components, like the pesto dressing, in advance to expedite the salad assembly.

Supplies You’ll Need

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