Grilled Peach Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled peaches add a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp greens and tangy cheese. The warm fruit contrasts nicely with the cool salad, and the light vinaigrette ties everything together without overpowering the flavors. This salad is not only easy to make but also versatile—you can customize it with your favorite ingredients, such as nuts, seeds, or different cheeses. It’s a healthy, visually stunning dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you want to enjoy the taste of grilled fruit.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 4 cups mixed greens (like arugula, spinach, or baby kale)

• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese

• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• Fresh basil or mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

For the dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.

2. Brush the peach halves with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Place the peach halves, cut side down, on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the peaches are lightly charred and softened. Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.

4. While the peaches are grilling, prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth.

5. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, crumbled cheese, toasted nuts (if using), and red onion (if using).

6. Slice the grilled peaches into wedges and arrange them on top of the salad.

7. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.

8. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or mint, if desired.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the salad more filling.

• Swap out the goat cheese for blue cheese or burrata for a different creamy texture.

• For an extra crunch, toss in some crispy chickpeas or roasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

• You can use a different fruit, such as grilled nectarines, apricots, or even pineapple, for variety.

• Add some quinoa or farro to the salad for more substance and a hearty touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Grilled peach salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftover components (like the grilled peaches, salad greens, and dressing) separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Do not store the dressed salad as it can wilt. If you plan to make it ahead, store the dressing and salad components separately and assemble just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned peaches for this salad?

Fresh peaches are ideal for grilling, but if fresh peaches are not available, you can use canned peaches. However, they won’t have the same smoky flavor as grilled ones. Drain the canned peaches well before using.

2. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan works great for this recipe. Preheat the pan and grill the peaches the same way, turning them halfway through until they’re lightly charred.

3. Can I make the grilled peaches ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the peaches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just slice them and assemble the salad when you’re ready to serve.

4. How do I know when the peaches are done grilling?

The peaches are done when they’re slightly soft to the touch and have visible grill marks. They should still hold their shape but have a tender interior.

5. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

6. How can I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan feta or cashew cheese.

7. Can I use other nuts in this salad?

Yes, you can use any nuts you like—almonds, pine nuts, or pistachios would all work well as a crunchy topping.

8. How do I keep the grilled peaches from sticking to the grill?

Make sure to brush the peaches with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also use a non-stick grill pan or grill basket to make grilling easier.

9. Can I add more fruit to this salad?

Yes, you can add more fruits like berries, pomegranate seeds, or sliced apples to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.

10. Can I prepare this salad for a crowd?

Yes, this salad can easily be scaled up for a crowd. Just make sure to grill enough peaches and adjust the dressing and salad portions accordingly.

Conclusion

Grilled peach salad is a light, flavorful, and visually stunning dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The sweetness of the grilled peaches combined with the tangy dressing and creamy cheese creates a harmonious balance of flavors. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and makes for an excellent side or main dish during the warmer months. Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner or just craving a refreshing salad, this grilled peach salad is sure to delight!