This salad brightens up any meal with sweet, juicy grilled peaches on a bed of fresh greens. It’s super easy to make and perfect for warm days!
Honestly, who can resist those caramelized peaches? I could eat them by the handful! Pair it with a light dressing, and you’ve got a tasty treat that’s also healthy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are crucial for sweetness. If they’re out of season, you can use nectarines or even canned peaches, but fresh is best for that lovely grill flavor.
Mixed Greens: I love using a mix of spinach and arugula for a peppery bite. If you prefer, try kale or even romaine. Just make sure the greens are fresh for a crunchy texture.
Berries: Blackberries and blueberries add juicy bursts of flavor. If you can’t find them, raspberries or strawberries work well too. Frozen berries are a decent substitute but may be mushy.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add a nutty crunch. If you’re allergic, walnuts or sunflower seeds are great alternatives. You can even skip nuts if you want a nut-free salad.
Cheese: Goat cheese gives a tangy flavor, but feta or even fresh mozzarella is yummy too! If dairy-free, look for plant-based cheese options.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks on My Peaches?
Grilling peaches not only enhances their flavor but gives them that beautiful char. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. This ensures the peaches sear and don’t stick.
- Brush both sides of the peaches with olive oil to create a barrier and enhance flavor.
- Place peaches cut-side down on the grill for 3-4 minutes until you see those lovely grill marks, then flip to cook for another 2 minutes.
- Watch closely! You want them soft but not mushy, so keep an eye on them towards the end.
Remember, the goal is to bring out their sweet, juicy goodness while giving them that appealing look!
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, baby kale, or 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 cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus another 10 minutes to grill the peaches. Altogether, expect to spend around 20 minutes for this quick and tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will ensure those peaches get a nice char and flavor!
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Brush the cut sides of the peach halves lightly with olive oil to help prevent sticking on the grill. This little step makes a big difference!
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 a bit. Flip them and grill for another 2 minutes. Once done, take them off the grill and let cool slightly before slicing them into wedges.
4. Make the Dressing:
While the peaches grill, prepare your dressing! In a small bowl, whip together the honey, vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk them together until everything is nicely combined.
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl or platter, lay down the mixed greens as your beautiful base. It’s all about that gorgeous color!
6. Add the Grilled Peaches and Berries:
Scatter the grilled peach wedges over the greens, and then sprinkle the blackberries, blueberries, and toasted pecans on top.
7. Finish with Cheese and Dressing:
Top your salad with the crumbled goat cheese (or feta) for that creamy goodness. Just before serving, drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad.
8. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss the salad so that everything is mixed beautifully, or you can serve it as it is for a stunning presentation. Enjoy!
Now, savor the delightful flavors of your fresh and vibrant grilled peach salad!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap peaches for other fruits like nectarines, plums, or even grilled pineapple. Any sweet, juicy fruit will add delicious flavor to the salad.
Can I Make the Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the dressing and grill the peaches ahead of time! Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just assemble the salad fresh right before serving to keep the greens crisp.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note that the greens might wilt, so it’s best to store the dressing separately if possible.
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, feta is an excellent option for a similar tangy flavor. For a non-dairy option, look for plant-based cheese alternatives available at most grocery stores.
