This bright and tasty salad combines juicy grilled peaches with crisp greens. A drizzle of balsamic dressing adds a sweet and tangy kick that makes it perfect for any meal!
Who knew salads could be so fun? I love the unexpected sweetness of the peaches, which makes me feel a bit like a chef. Serve it as a side or enjoy it as a light lunch—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are sweet and juicy when grilled, adding a wonderful flavor. If peaches aren’t available, you can use nectarines or plums. They grill well and have a similar sweetness.
Mixed Greens: I love a mix of baby spinach and arugula for their variety in taste and texture. If you’re not a fan, any leafy greens like kale or romaine will work in this salad, just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Berries: Blackberries and blueberries bring freshness and color to the dish. Feel free to swap them out for strawberries, raspberries, or even cherries based on what’s in season or your preference.
Nuts: Pecans add a nice crunch, but walnuts or almonds can be tasty substitutes too! If you’re nut-free, consider adding toasted sunflower seeds for some extra texture.
Cheese: I prefer goat cheese for its creamy tang, but feta or even a sharp cheddar can also be delightful. If you want to keep it dairy-free, try using a vegan cheese alternative.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Peaches?
Grilling peaches can be simple and rewarding. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Choose ripe peaches for maximum flavor. They should yield slightly when gently pressed.
- Brush them with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance the grilling process.
- Preheat your grill! A hot grill gives nice caramelization and grill marks.
- Grill cut-side down for about 3-4 minutes. Flip for an additional 2 minutes on the skin side to get those appealing marks.
These steps will help you get juicy, flavorful grilled peaches every time! Enjoy adding them to your salad for that perfect sweet touch.
Easy Grilled Peach Salad with Fresh Greens
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups mixed fresh greens (such as baby spinach, arugula, and spring mix)
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to grill the peaches, making the total time around 20 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a fresh, summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Getting it hot ensures those beautiful grill marks and a nice char on the peaches!
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Brush the peach halves lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and add a little flavor as they grill.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peaches on the grill, cut side down. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes, until you see lovely grill marks and they start to soften. Then, flip them over and grill on the skin side for another 2 minutes. Once done, take them off the grill and slice them into wedges.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, toss together the mixed greens, blackberries, blueberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled goat cheese. This colorful mix is not only delicious but also visually appealing!
5. Add the Grilled Peaches:
Now it’s time to add the grilled peach slices to the salad. Carefully place them on top so they don’t break apart.
6. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until everything is well blended.
7. Drizzle and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients, making sure everything is nicely coated.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately and enjoy the fresh, sweet, and tangy flavors all together! Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner.
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches are fantastic, you can substitute them with other fruits like nectarines, plums, or even apples. Just grill them similarly and enjoy the fruity twist!
What Can I Use Instead of Goat Cheese?
If you’re not a goat cheese fan, feta is a great alternative that adds a nice salty flavor. For a milder cheese, try mozzarella or a vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate if possible. Place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For the dressing, store it in a sealed jar in the fridge and give it a good shake before using.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the salad ingredients and grill the peaches a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
