Rustic Fruit & Basil Salad

A bowl of morning light — fruit kissed by basil and the quiet sweetness of summer. Simple, fresh, from the garden to the table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1 cup cubed peaches or nectarines
• 1 cup blueberries or blackberries
• 1 cup cubed cantaloupe or honeydew
• 6–8 fresh basil leaves, torn gently
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt
• Optional: a few torn mint leaves for brightness
• Rustic dressing: 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Rustic dressing: 1 tsp honey
• Rustic dressing: 1 tsp lemon juice
• Rustic dressing: Tiny pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a large rustic bowl, combine all the fruit.
2. Add the lemon zest and torn basil leaves.
3. Whisk the dressing together and drizzle it over the top.
4. Toss gently with your hands — the farmhouse way — so the fruit stays whole and glossy.
5. Taste and adjust with a touch more lemon or honey.
6. Serve immediately, or chill for 20 minutes to let the flavours bloom.

Basil adds a soft herbal perfume that makes the fruit taste sweeter, lemon zest brightens everything without overpowering, and a whisper of olive oil gives it that rustic, Tuscan-summer feel.