Nectarine & Feta Salad with Toasted Almonds - The Perfect End-of-Summer Salad

Savor the sweetness of late summer with this refreshing nectarine & feta salad topped with toasted almonds and a tangy balsamic dressing. Light, vibrant, and a perfect use for end of summer stone fruit! 

Nectarine & Feta Salad with Toasted Almonds - The Perfect End-of-Summer Salad

Sun-ripened nectarines, crunchy toasted almonds, and tangy feta—this salad is a celebration of everything late summer has to offer. Imagine crisp, fresh greens layered with juicy nectarines, their sweetness perfectly balanced by creamy feta, while pickled red onions add a subtle tang and a drizzle of balsamic-maple dressing ties it all together in a silky, flavorful finish.

Not only does this salad taste incredible, it’s also a feast for the eyes—bright, colorful, and elegant enough to serve for a casual dinner or a small gathering. It’s light yet satisfying, fresh yet indulgent, and entirely effortless to prepare, making it a perfect choice for those evenings when you want something quick but still feel like a culinary star.

Whether you’re craving a sweet-savory lunch, a side for your grilled dinner, or simply a way to celebrate the last days of summer, this salad delivers. Every bite bursts with flavor, texture, and sunshine, reminding you why late-summer produce is so worth savoring. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again before the season slips away.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Here’s everything that goes into this vibrant late-summer salad:

• White wine vinegar
• Honey
• Salt
• Red onion
• Sliced almonds
• Mixed greens
• Ripe nectarines
• Feta cheese
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Maple syrup
• Black pepper

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this salad is how adaptable it is! Try these swaps to make it your own:

• Fruit: Swap nectarines for peaches, plums, or even juicy pears in early fall.

• Cheese: Feta brings a tangy punch, but goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shaved Parmesan work beautifully.

• Nuts: Almonds add great crunch, but walnuts, pecans, or pistachios are equally delicious.

• Greens: Mixed greens are versatile, but arugula, spinach, or butter lettuce give a different flavor twist.

• Dressing: For a lighter option, use lemon juice and olive oil instead of balsamic vinaigrette.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

Here's some tips to and tricks:

• Pickling shortcut: If you’re short on time, you can skip the quick-pickling step and use raw red onion for extra bite.

• Peeling nectarines: No need to peel unless you prefer a softer texture—the skin adds fiber and a pretty pop of color.

• Make-ahead: Toast almonds and mix the dressing up to 2 days in advance. Assemble the salad just before serving for the freshest flavor.

• Serving idea: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a complete meal.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇