Why You’ll Love Grilled Salmon with Nectarines and Goat Cheese Recipe
This grilled salmon recipe is simple, colorful, and packed with flavor. The salmon is savory and rich, while the nectarines add natural sweetness and a lightly smoky finish from the grill. Crumbled goat cheese brings creaminess and tang, and a drizzle of honey ties everything together beautifully.
It is ready in just 20 minutes, uses a short ingredient list, and feels special without requiring complicated steps.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
<ul><li>4 salmon fillets</li><li>2 nectarines, halved and pitted</li><li>2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled</li><li>2 tablespoons olive oil</li><li>1 tablespoon honey</li><li>Salt, to taste</li><li>Black pepper, to taste</li><li>Fresh basil leaves, for garnish</li></ul>
Directions
<ol><li>Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.</li><li>Brush the salmon fillets and nectarines with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.</li><li>Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, until cooked through.</li><li>Grill the nectarines cut-side down for 2–3 minutes until lightly charred and softened.</li><li>Transfer the salmon and nectarines to a serving plate.</li><li>Drizzle honey over the salmon and nectarines, then sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese.</li><li>Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.</li></ol>
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Calorie
Variations
For a slightly different flavor, use peaches instead of nectarines. You can also swap the goat cheese for feta if you prefer a saltier taste.
For extra freshness, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. To make the meal heartier, serve the salmon with quinoa, couscous, rice, or a crisp green salad.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover salmon and nectarines in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm the salmon gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature until just heated through. Avoid overheating, as salmon can dry out quickly. Add the goat cheese, honey, and basil after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use peaches instead of nectarines?
Yes, peaches work very well in this recipe and grill beautifully.
Should I remove the salmon skin?
You can leave the skin on while grilling because it helps protect the salmon and keeps it moist.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
Can I make this without a grill?
Yes, use a grill pan on the stovetop or cook the salmon in a skillet.
What should I serve with this dish?
A green salad, rice, quinoa, couscous, or roasted vegetables all pair nicely.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and grilling.
What type of goat cheese works best?
Soft, crumbled goat cheese is best because it adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It is best served fresh, but you can prep the nectarines and season the salmon shortly before cooking.
Is this recipe sweet?
It has a light sweetness from the nectarines and honey, balanced by savory salmon and tangy goat cheese.
Can I add more herbs?
Yes, fresh mint, parsley, or thyme can be added along with or instead of basil.
Conclusion
Grilled Salmon with Nectarines and Goat Cheese is a quick, elegant, and flavorful meal that balances savory, sweet, creamy, and fresh ingredients. With tender salmon, juicy grilled fruit, tangy cheese, honey, and basil, this recipe is perfect for a light dinner that still feels special.
Grilled Salmon with Nectarines and Goat Cheese
A fresh and flavorful dish featuring grilled salmon paired with sweet nectarines and creamy goat cheese. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal with a balance of savory and sweet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 nectarines, halved and pitted
- 2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Brush the salmon fillets and nectarines with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
- Grill the nectarines cut-side down for 2–3 minutes until lightly charred and softened.
- Transfer the salmon and nectarines to a serving plate.
- Drizzle honey over the salmon and nectarines, then sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm nectarines for best grilling results.
- Peaches can be substituted for nectarines.
- Serve with a light salad or grains for a complete meal.
- If grilling outdoors, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
