Description

Grilled nectarines are loaded with flavor and bring a delicious sweetness to a traditional caprese salad, while grilled jalapeños bring a touch of spice.

Ingredients

Scale

4 ripe nectarines, halved and pits removed
16 oz fresh mozzarella
1 large or extra large jersey tomato (I love big juicy summer tomatoes. If you don't have Jersey Tomatoes, use a big heirloom or hot house tomato)
2 Tb balsamic reduction (nee note 1)
1 jalapeño pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
olive oil
salt for seasoning

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Instructions

Start by brushing the flesh side of the halved nectarines with olive oil and seasoning them with a pinch of salt and paprika.
Grill the nectarines and jalapeño over a medium flame for 4 minutes, then flip and grill for 4 more minutes. (nectarine skin will likely stick to the grill slightly. That's OK. Either discard it or scrape it off and use in the salad.)
Allow the jalapeño and nectarines to cool slightly, then discard the jalapeño skin and seeds, and dice the jalapeño. Slice each cooked nectarine halve into 6 slices. Set them aside.
Slice the tomato and mozzarella into 2 inch pieces. Arrange nectarines, mozzarella, and tomatoes on a platter. Top with fresh basil leaves, diced jalapeño, a dusting of salt, and drizzled balsamic reduction and olive oil.
Serve right away (see note 2)

Notes

Note 1: Purchase balsamic glaze or make your own balsamic reduction by boiling 1/3 c of balsamic vinegar until it has reduced to 2 Tb.

Note 2: Whatever you do, DO NOT put this salad in the refrigerator once you have plated it. Firstly, a tomato should never go in the fridge. It's unbelievable how much flavor the refrigerator sucks out of a tomato. Secondly, fresh mozzarella will drain and mix with the tomatoes and balsamic as it sits, which is not as appealing as a freshly dressed salad. You can, however, make the balsamic reduction ahead of time if making your own if you want to get some prep work out of the way.

Keywords: nectarine caprese, grilled nectarine caprese, grilled nectarine caprese salad, grilled nectarine salad