Fresh Nectarine Salsa
This Fresh Nectarine Salsa is a vibrant and zesty condiment, perfectly balancing the sweetness of ripe nectarines with the sharp bite of red onion, a hint of spice from jalapeño, and bright lime.
For 6 servings
Prepare the nectarines: Wash and pat dry the nectarines. Carefully dice them into small, uniform pieces, about 1/4-inch (0.6 cm) cubes. Transfer the diced nectarines to a medium mixing bowl.
Dice the aromatics: Peel and finely dice the red onion into very small pieces, about 1/8-inch (0.3 cm). For the jalapeño, slice it lengthwise, remove seeds and membranes for milder heat (or leave some for more spice), then mince it finely. Add both the diced red onion and minced jalapeño to the bowl with the nectarines.
Chop cilantro and combine: Wash and thoroughly dry the fresh cilantro. Finely chop the leaves and tender stems. Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl with the other ingredients.
Season and dress: Squeeze the juice from the entire lime directly over the ingredients in the bowl. Add the sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Gently mix and serve: Using a spoon or spatula, gently fold all the ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary (add more salt, lime, or a pinch of sugar if nectarines aren't sweet enough). Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes for enhanced flavor.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose Ripe Nectarines: Select nectarines that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. Avoid overly soft or bruised fruit for the best texture.
- 2Adjust Heat Level: For a spicier salsa, leave some or all of the seeds and membranes in the jalapeño. For a milder version, remove them completely and rinse the pepper under cold water.
- 3Uniform Dicing: Aim for consistent, small dice for all ingredients. This ensures a balanced flavor in every bite and a more pleasant, cohesive texture.
- 4Serving Versatility: This salsa is excellent with grilled chicken, fish, pork, or shrimp. It also makes a fantastic topping for tacos, a fresh side for quesadillas, or simply served with tortilla chips.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Replace nectarines with peaches, mangoes, or even pineapple for a different tropical twist. Ensure the fruit is ripe but firm enough to hold its shape when diced.
Herb & Spice BoostHerb & Spice Boost
Add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth, a tiny bit of ground cumin for earthiness, or swap cilantro for fresh mint for a brighter, cooler profile.
Avocado CreaminessAvocado Creaminess
Fold in 1/2 diced ripe avocado just before serving for added creaminess and healthy fats. This will make the salsa more substantial and satisfying.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Nectarines are a good source of Vitamin C and A, which are essential for immune function, skin health, and vision.
Digestive Health
The fiber content in nectarines and other fresh vegetables aids in healthy digestion, promotes gut regularity, and can help maintain a feeling of fullness.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Ingredients like nectarines, cilantro, and jalapeño are packed with antioxidants that help combat free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and support overall cellular health.
Frequently asked questions
This salsa is best enjoyed fresh within 1-2 days. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The nectarines may soften and release more liquid over time, affecting texture.
