Nectarine and Basil Relish

A bowl of lusciously ripe nectarines sits on my picnic table, totally irresistible to me. I bite into one, juice dribbling down my arm, and it is pure heaven. Oh summer, how I do love you.

When I’m not devouring these beauties by the pound, I’m slicing them for pies and cobblers and dreaming of new ways to enjoy them, which led to this simple, more savory dish.

Not quite salsa and not quite salad, I landed upon relish as a way to describe it. Sweetly scented nectarines are sliced and gently mixed with crisp red peppers, red onion and bright basil. A zesty, citrusy dressing rounds out the flavors nicely.

Soft and crunchy and full of juicy color! This is a quick one to prepare and enjoy when gathered with friends. Whether served alongside grilled chicken or perhaps a cheese platter, this pretty relish celebrates some splendid tastes of summer.

Nectarine and Basil Relish
Serves 4

3 ripe nectarines (about 1 pound or so), pitted and sliced into eighths
1/2 red onion, diced
1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced thinly
1/2 red pepper, diced
1 lime, zested and juiced
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Salt to taste

Place the nectarines, red onion, basil and red pepper in a medium sized serving bowl. Whisk together the lime zest and juice, garlic, olive oil and vinegar. Drizzle over the nectarine mixture and gently stir. Salt to taste and chill for about an hour before serving.