Cherry Tomato Salad with Nectarines, Ciliegine, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

If you’re looking for a salad that feels like sunshine on a plate, you’ve got to try my Cherry Tomato Salad with Nectarines, Ciliegine, and Fresh Herbs Recipe. It’s fresh, vibrant, and ridiculously easy to whip up — the kind of dish that makes you want to linger over lunch. Trust me, sweet nectarines and juicy cherry tomatoes together with those creamy little ciliegine balls create a flavor combo that’s downright addictive. Ready to brighten up your table? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Cherry Tomato Salad with Nectarines, Ciliegine, and Fresh Herbs Recipe shines because it brings together sweet, savory, juicy, and herbaceous notes all in one bowl. These ingredients aren’t just tossed together—they complement and elevate each other beautifully. Here are a few tips to make sure your salad is as perfect as mine:

• Cherry tomatoes: Look for firm, glossy ones—they have the best sweet-tart pop.
• Nectarines: Choose ripe but still firm; they add a juicy sweetness without getting mushy.
• Cucumber (thinly sliced): Adds a crisp, cooling crunch that balances the fruit’s sweetness.
• Shallot: Just a bit — finely diced for a subtle onion flavor without overpowering.
• Ciliegine (mini mozzarella): These little cheese balls bring creamy richness and a bit of fun texture.
• Fresh parsley and basil: Essential herbs here! They’re bright and add layers of fresh fragrance.
• Champagne vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, and honey: This homemade vinaigrette is light, tangy, and just sweet enough to tie everything together.
• Flaky salt: I love using flaky salt because it gives texture and bursts of pure salty goodness.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Cherry Tomato Salad with Nectarines, Ciliegine, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. I love mixing up the herbs or adding a little spicy kick now and then. Don’t be shy to tweak it to your taste — after all, that’s how the best recipes evolve!

• Variation: I once tried swapping nectarines for peaches when nectarines were out of season. The result was just as deliciously sweet and juicy.
• Dietary modification: For a vegan twist, replace the ciliegine with marinated tofu cubes or a vegan mozzarella alternative.
• Extra crunch: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add a lovely crunch if you feel like it.
• Seasonal swaps: In cooler months, swap fresh nectarines for roasted butternut squash cubes for a warm twist.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cherry Tomato Salad with Nectarines, Ciliegine, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Prep All Your Fresh Ingredients

Start by halving 2 cups of cherry tomatoes and chopping 3 nectarines into half-inch cubes. Thinly slice about half a small shallot—don’t rush this part; a fine dice makes the shallot less sharp and more subtle in the salad. Also, thinly slice ½ cup cucumber and halve the 8-ounce pack of ciliegine. Chop about ¼ cup each of fresh parsley and basil leaves for that fresh herb punch. Taking a little extra time here really makes this salad shine.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Vinaigrette

Grab a small bowl or jar and whisk together the dressing ingredients: 1 tablespoon champagne vinegar, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons good-quality olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey, and a pinch of flaky salt. Taste as you go — you want a nice balance of tangy and sweet, so don’t be afraid to add a little more lemon juice or honey to suit your preference.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

Place all your prepped veggies, fruit, herbs, and cheese into a large mixing bowl. Give that vinaigrette a quick whisk again and drizzle it over the salad. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so every ingredient is kissed by the dressing. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or pop it in the fridge for up to an hour to let the flavors marry beautifully.

How to Serve Cherry Tomato Salad with Nectarines, Ciliegine, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this salad with an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a little cracked black pepper right before serving. Sometimes, I add a few toasted pine nuts or a few thin lemon zest curls for an aromatic touch that surprises and delights.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, crusty bread, or even as a vibrant topping for crostini during a picnic. On warmer days, I like serving it alongside light pasta dishes or roasted fish for a full, fresh meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunches or special occasions, I’ve served this salad layered in clear glass jars to show off the colors or arranged beautifully on a big platter garnished with whole basil leaves and edible flowers, turning a simple salad into a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got leftovers (this salad rarely lasts long in my house), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. I recommend adding the vinaigrette fresh next time if possible since the tomatoes and nectarines can get a bit mushy after sitting in dressing too long.

Freezing

This one’s best enjoyed fresh, so freezing isn’t ideal. The texture of the tomatoes, nectarines, and cheese changes drastically once frozen and thawed.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you want to freshen it up, a quick toss in fresh lemon juice and olive oil works wonders.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Tomato Salad with Nectarines, Ciliegine, and Fresh Herbs Recipe is one of those rare finds that feels both effortless and extraordinary. Whether served at a casual family meal or a light summer party, it always gets rave reviews. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—because really, it’s just pure joy in a bowl. So go ahead, give it a try, and treat yourself to a fresh bite of happiness.

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