When summer unveils its warm embrace, there’s nothing quite like the nostalgia of outdoor gatherings, laughter, and the delightful aroma of grilled food wafting through the air. One of my favorite ways to capture the essence of the season is with a Grilled Peach Salad. This dish is the perfect marriage of sweet, smoky flavors and a touch of creaminess that dances across your palate. Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent grilled peaches, their sugars caramelized, paired with the savory notes of prosciutto and the luxurious creaminess of burrata cheese, all nestled atop a bed of peppery arugula.
With a prep time that’s far quicker than your average summer BBQ, this salad is not just a breeze to make—it’s a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting friends for a weekend brunch or bringing a light dish to a potluck. Join me as I share the secrets behind this dazzling summertime delight that’s both gluten-free and bursting with flavor. Let’s embrace the season and elevate our meals with this unforgettable Grilled Peach Salad!
Why is this Grilled Peach Salad a must-try?
Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: This salad showcases ripe peaches at their peak, bringing all the sweet, juicy flavors of summer to your table.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you’ll have a stunning dish ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Creative Flavor Fusion: The combination of smoky grilled peaches, creamy burrata, and salty prosciutto creates a unique taste sensation that will impress your guests.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a light main course or pair it with grilled chicken for a hearty meal. For those looking for even more inspiration, check out my other quick recipes for summer.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Everyone can indulge in this delightful salad, making it an excellent choice for inclusive gatherings.
Grilled Peach Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- Ripe Peaches – They should be firm yet yield slightly to pressure for the perfect sweetness in your grilled peach salad.
- Baby Arugula – Adds a peppery flavor base; feel free to substitute with spinach or mixed greens for a twist.
- Prosciutto – Imparts a delightful saltiness; you can swap it for crispy bacon or omit it for a vegetarian option.
- Burrata Cheese – Offers a rich creaminess that complements the salad beautifully; fresh mozzarella or goat cheese works as alternatives.
For the Dressing
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for grilling and dressing; a light oil can be substituted if needed.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your taste.
- Balsamic Glaze – Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to balance the salad; make your own with balsamic vinegar and honey for a fresh option.
This Grilled Peach Salad is not only a celebration of summer flavors but also quick and easy to make, making it a must-try!
How to Make Grilled Peach Salad
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Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s nice and hot for the best char on those peaches!
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Toss sliced peaches in ½ tablespoon of olive oil. Grill them for 2-3 minutes per side until they are beautifully charred and slightly softened.
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Remove the grilled peaches from the heat, allowing them to cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps them retain their shape and flavor.
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Plate the baby arugula as the base. Generously top it with those luscious grilled peaches, letting the colors shine.
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Tear the burrata cheese and scatter it over the salad, adding that creamy dreamy texture.
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Add prosciutto slices on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and a decadent balsamic glaze before serving. This adds a final touch of flavor and elegance!
Optional: For extra crunch, toss some toasted nuts on top!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Grilled Peach Salad Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize this dish and enhance your salad’s flavor profile with these tasty ideas!
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Vegan Delight: Substitute burrata with a creamy vegan cheese or avocado for a dairy-free twist that still delivers on texture.
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Nutty Crunch: Add toasted walnuts or almonds on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy peaches.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh basil or mint to invigorate the salad with a refreshing herbal note that brightens every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness of the peaches.
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Stone Fruit Medley: Switch out some peaches for nectarines or plums to play with a medley of flavors while staying true to that summer vibe.
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Citrus Zing: Drizzle a splash of fresh orange or lemon juice for an extra layer of brightness that elevates the salad’s overall flavor profile.
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Maple Twist: Drizzle a little maple syrup instead of balsamic glaze for a sweet and rich alternative, perfect for fall-inspired flavors.
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Cheese Alternatives: Use feta or ricotta cheese in place of burrata for different textures and flavor contrasts, making your salad unique every time.
Embrace your inner chef and make this recipe your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Peach Salad components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can grill the peaches up to 24 hours in advance; simply toss them in olive oil and grill until charred, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The burrata cheese and prosciutto can be added right before serving to maintain their delightful textures. For best results, assemble the salad the day you plan to enjoy it, layering the arugula, grilled peaches, and cheese together. This way, you’ll have a gorgeous salad ready to impress with minimal effort—just as delicious even after prepping in advance!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Peach Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover grilled peach salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Room Temperature: This salad is best served immediately; do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Reheating: If desired, avoid reheating the salad to preserve the textures of the grilled peaches and burrata. Enjoy it cold for the best experience.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the grilled peach salad, as the texture of the peaches and burrata will be compromised when thawed.
Tips for the Best Grilled Peach Salad
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Choose Quality Peaches: Look for ripe peaches that yield to gentle pressure; overly hard peaches won’t have the sweetness needed for a delicious grilled peach salad.
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Grill Preheating is Key: Ensure your grill or grill pan is fully preheated to medium-high heat to achieve those beautiful grill marks and the perfect caramelization.
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Don’t Overcook Peaches: Grill peaches until they’re charred but still firm. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture that detracts from the salad’s appeal.
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Drizzle for Flavor: While a good drizzle of balsamic glaze is essential, don’t forget to balance the flavors with a sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked pepper to enhance the salad.
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Keep it Fresh: Enjoy this grilled peach salad right after assembling for the best taste. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and consume within a day or two.
What to Serve with Grilled Peach Salad?
Elevate your dining experience with delectable pairings that complement the sweet smoky flavors of this vibrant salad.
- Grilled Chicken: The juicy, charred flavors of grilled chicken add a hearty element, pairing perfectly with the salad’s freshness.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: This crunchy, buttery addition balances the salad’s textures and enhances the overall meal experience.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty and slightly chewy quinoa pilaf provides a wholesome, gluten-free side that complements the salad beautifully.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing rosé enhances the flavors, creating a refreshing summer vibe.
- Watermelon Feta Salad: This light and fruity salad brings a burst of freshness, acting as a lovely contrast to the grilled peach salad.
- Honey Glazed Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, sweet grilled vegetables provide a delightful mix of flavors and make for a colorful side dish.
- Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy taste and caramelized finish harmonize with the balsamic elements in the salad.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a bright, zesty finish to your meal.
- Sparkling Water with Mint: Refreshing and hydrating, this beverage gives a soothing element to each bite of the grilled peach salad, making it truly delightful.
Grilled Peach Salad Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ripe peaches?
Absolutely! When selecting peaches, look for firm fruits that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Their skin should be smooth without any dark spots or bruises. If it’s fragrant, that’s a fantastic sign of maturity and sweetness!
How should I store leftover grilled peach salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 1 to 2 days. Just remember, the flavors will enhance even more if eaten fresh, as some ingredients may not hold up well with time.
Can I freeze grilled peach salad?
I wouldn’t recommend it. Freezing grilled peach salad can compromise the peach’s texture and the creaminess of the burrata cheese upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, right after it’s made.
What if my grilled peaches turn mushy?
Very! If your peaches become mushy while grilling, it usually means they were left on the grill too long. Aim to grill the peaches for just 2-3 minutes on each side. The goal is a nice char without losing their firmness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Yes, indeed! This grilled peach salad is gluten-free and can easily be made suitable for vegetarians by omitting the prosciutto. Always check for allergies related to specific ingredients like cheese and nuts if you plan to add them.
How can I enhance the flavors of my grilled peach salad?
For a flavor explosion, consider adding toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch. You can also include fresh herbs such as basil or mint for an aromatic touch. Finally, a drizzle of honey can elevate the sweetness factor if desired. Enjoy experimenting!
Delicious Grilled Peach Salad for a Perfect Summer Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Toss sliced peaches in ½ tablespoon of olive oil. Grill them for 2-3 minutes per side until charred.
- Remove the grilled peaches and let them cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Plate the baby arugula as the base and top with grilled peaches.
- Tear burrata cheese and scatter over the salad.
- Add prosciutto slices and season with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle with remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze before serving.