This Easy Grilled Peach Salad combines sweet, juicy peaches with fresh greens for a bright and tasty dish. It’s perfect for summer days when you want something light and refreshing!
I love how the grill brings out the peach’s sweetness, making it a delightful treat. Toss in some nuts or cheese for an extra bite. You can’t go wrong with this salad at a picnic! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are essential for that juicy sweetness. If you’re not in peach season, try nectarines or even plums for a similar texture and flavor.
Salad Greens: A mix of baby spinach, arugula, and spring mix adds great flavors. Feel free to use romaine or kale if you prefer a heartier greens approach.
Blackberries & Blueberries: Both add a fun burst of color and flavor. If they’re not available, you can use strawberries or raspberries instead. Fresh or frozen works fine too!
Pecans: These provide a nice crunch! If you have a nut allergy, substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for that needed crunch!
Cheese: Goat cheese brings creaminess, but feta will also work well. For a dairy-free option, try using a crumbly tofu with some lemon juice mixed in to mimic the tanginess.
How Do You Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches enhances their sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat to ensure nice grill marks.
- Brush the peach wedges with olive oil to prevent them from sticking, and to help them caramelize.
- Place them cut-side down on the grill, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until you see those lovely grill marks.
- Gently flip and grill for another 2-3 minutes. They should be softened but still hold their shape.
- Let them cool slightly before adding to your salad for an extra burst of flavor!
Easy Grilled Peach Salad with Fresh Greens
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fruits & Greens:
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
- 6 cups mixed fresh salad greens (such as baby spinach, arugula, and spring mix)
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1/2 cup blueberries
Nuts & Cheese:
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling peaches)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to grill the peaches, making it a quick yet impressive dish to whip up for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures your peaches get those perfect grill marks!
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Lightly brush the peach wedges with olive oil using a pastry brush. This helps them not to stick to the grill and enhances the flavors!
3. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peach slices onto the hot grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until you see nice grill marks and the peaches soften just a bit. Once done, remove them from the grill and allow them to cool slightly.
4. Mix the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, blackberries, blueberries, and pecan halves for a colorful and vibrant base.
5. Add Grilled Peaches:
Gently toss the grilled peach slices into the salad, spreading them evenly among the greens and berries.
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese over the salad for that creamy goodness!
7. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing bridges all the flavors together!
8. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything lightly to ensure it’s evenly coated.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately and savor this refreshing grilled peach salad that beautifully blends sweet, savory, and tangy flavors!
This salad is perfect as a light lunch or side dish. Enjoy the sweet and smoky taste of grilled peaches complementing the freshness of the greens and berries! 🌞🥗
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Grilled Peach Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches are the star, you can switch them out for other stone fruits like nectarines or plums. Berries such as strawberries and raspberries also make great substitutions or additions for a fruity twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
To keep leftovers fresh, store any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, to maintain the crispness of the greens, it’s best to store the dressing separately and assemble the salad just before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep by grilling the peaches and washing the greens in advance! Just store them separately and combine just before serving for the best texture and flavor. The grilled peaches can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feta is a fantastic alternative. For a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu mixed with some lemon juice for a tangy flavor or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
