
Sweet grilled nectarines, creamy burrata, peppery rocket, and crunchy candied pecans come together in this elegant summer salad. A simple balsamic-honey dressing adds just the right balance of richness and brightness, making it ideal for lunch, entertaining, or a light dinner.
Make the candied pecans: melt the butter with the caster sugar in a small frying pan over medium heat. Add the pecans and stir until evenly coated. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the nuts are glossy, toasted, and lightly caramelized. Transfer to baking parchment, cool completely, then roughly chop.
Heat a griddle pan over high heat. Lightly brush the nectarine wedges with olive oil, then grill for 1-2 minutes per side until marked, softened, and lightly caramelized. Arrange the grilled nectarines on a serving platter.
Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a little salt and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Tuck the burrata among the warm nectarines and tear each one open slightly. Scatter over the rocket and basil leaves, then spoon over the dressing. Finish with the chopped candied pecans and a pinch of chilli flakes. Serve straight away.
If you do not have a griddle pan, use a hot cast-iron skillet or grill. Toast the pecans carefully, as the sugar can catch quickly. For the best texture, assemble the salad just before serving so the rocket stays fresh and the burrata remains creamy.