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Fresh Nectarine Basil Caprese Recipe with Creamy Whipped Ricotta

fresh nectarine basil caprese - featured image
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A light and refreshing summer salad featuring juicy nectarines, fresh basil, and creamy whipped ricotta with a hint of lemon zest and olive oil, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3–4 medium-sized ripe but firm fresh nectarines
  • About 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, torn or whole
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • Lemon zest from 1 lemon
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Sea salt or flaky salt to taste
  • About 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction (optional)
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch

Instructions

  1. Place 1 cup of ricotta in a mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest from one lemon, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, whip on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until the ricotta is light, fluffy, and creamy. Add a teaspoon of water or more olive oil if too thick.
  3. Rinse and dry the nectarines. Cut them into thin wedges about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick.
  4. Tear the fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces or leave whole if small.
  5. On a large platter or individual plates, arrange nectarine slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping.
  6. Spoon generous dollops of the whipped ricotta evenly over the fruit.
  7. Scatter torn basil leaves across the plate.
  8. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over everything, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  9. Lightly drizzle balsamic glaze or reduction over the entire dish.
  10. Optionally, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
  11. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use cold ricotta for easier whipping. Slice nectarines just before serving to prevent browning. Tear basil leaves instead of chopping to preserve aroma. Drizzle balsamic glaze last to avoid overpowering flavors. For vegan version, substitute ricotta with whipped cashew cream or coconut yogurt and use maple syrup instead of balsamic glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: nectarine basil caprese, whipped ricotta salad, summer salad, fresh fruit salad, easy caprese recipe, balsamic glaze salad

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/fresh-nectarine-basil-caprese-recipe-with-creamy-whipped-ricotta-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/