Pine Nut and Herb Salad

Name: Pine Nut and Herb Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (parsley, basil, and mint); 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Holistic Healthy Cooking

I love whipping up this Pine Nut and Herb Salad when I want something fresh and vibrant on my plate. The combination of toasted pine nuts and a medley of herbs creates an incredible flavor profile that brightens up any meal. I enjoy preparing this salad not only for gatherings but also as a light lunch during the week. The crunch from the nuts paired with the aromatic herbs truly elevates my dining experience, making this dish a favorite in my kitchen.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T00:45:30.004Z

When I first crafted this Pine Nut and Herb Salad, I was searching for a dish that encapsulated the essence of freshness. Initially, I tried various combinations of ingredients, but the blend of parsley, basil, and toasted pine nuts stood out remarkably. This combination adds not just flavor but depth to the salad.

As I continued to refine the recipe, I discovered that lightly toasting the pine nuts before adding them enhances their flavor and provides a delightful crunch. This small step makes a world of difference and brings the salad to life, and now I can’t imagine serving it any other way!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The earthy crunch of pine nuts adds a delightful texture.
Fresh herbs provide a burst of flavor that is incredibly refreshing.
Perfectly complements any main course or serves as a light meal on its own.

Balancing the Flavors

In this Pine Nut and Herb Salad, the balance between the earthy pine nuts and the fresh herbs is essential. I recommend using a 1:1 ratio of parsley, basil, and mint for a well-rounded flavor. Parsley adds a mild bitterness, while basil brings sweetness, and mint offers a cooling touch. This trio not only enhances the taste but also creates a vibrant visual appeal. Don’t be afraid to adjust the herb mix based on availability or personal preference, but make sure to maintain that flavor balance for the best experience.

The tomatoes and cucumbers contribute juicy freshness and crunch, making sure every bite is lively. For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes; their natural sweetness will brighten the salad. If you can't find cherry tomatoes, diced heirloom or grape tomatoes are great substitutes. Similarly, opting for a seedless cucumber will ensure a softer texture that integrates seamlessly with the other components.

Toasting Pine Nuts Perfectly

Toasting pine nuts is a key step that elevates this salad. Use a skillet over medium heat, as this allows for even cooking without burning. Keep an eye on them, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until they turn golden brown. While the nuts may be small, they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds. If you happen to burn a batch, it's better to toss them and start fresh than to have that bitter flavor affect your salad.

For a nut-free alternative, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Just toast them similarly to bring out their nutty flavor. These substitutions not only accommodate dietary restrictions but can also introduce a delightful twist to the texture while maintaining a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Pine Nut and Herb Salad:

Ingredients

2 cups mixed fresh herbs (parsley, basil, and mint)
1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you are ready to assemble your salad.

Instructions

Here's how to make the Pine Nut and Herb Salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden brown, about 5 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the mixed herbs, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Add the toasted pine nuts to the bowl of ingredients, drizzle the dressing over the top, and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for the best freshness.

Enjoy your delicious Pine Nut and Herb Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding crumbled feta cheese or avocado. This salad can also be kept in the refrigerator for a day, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just note that the vegetables may release water, causing them to become softer. To minimize this, consider assembling the salad without dressing and pine nuts, adding these just before serving.

For meal prep, you can chop the vegetables and herbs in advance and store them separately. That way, the freshness of the salad is preserved, allowing you to enjoy this dish on hand for a quick lunch or dinner accompaniment throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

This Pine Nut and Herb Salad pairs nicely with proteins like grilled chicken, fish, or even shrimp. The vibrant flavors complement main dishes without overpowering them. For a vegetarian option, consider adding feta or goat cheese for a creamy element that contrasts beautifully with the crunch.

You can transform this dish into a heartier meal by adding cooked grains such as quinoa or farro. These additions not only increase the nutritional content but also add a delightful chewiness that pairs excellently with the crunchy pine nuts and fresh herbs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts in this recipe?

Yes! Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives to pine nuts.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

Consider adding quinoa or chickpeas for additional protein and fiber.

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead but mix with dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.