This vibrant salad features sweet grilled peaches and crisp greens, making it a perfect summer dish. It’s refreshing and full of flavor!
Throw in some crunchy nuts and a drizzle of balsamic for extra yum! I can’t resist the combo of sweet and tangy—it’s like a party in my mouth. 🎉
Plus, it takes just minutes to whip up! I love serving this salad with grilled chicken for a tasty and healthy meal that’s easy to enjoy anytime.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star of this salad, bringing sweetness and a juicy texture. If peaches aren’t in season, try nectarines or even mango slices for a different twist.
Mixed Greens: I recommend a blend of arugula, spinach, and spring mix for varied textures. You can use any greens you prefer, such as romaine or kale, depending on what you have on hand.
Blackberries & Blueberries: These berries add color and freshness. If you’re short on blueberries, try raspberries or strawberries instead—they all work beautifully in this salad!
Pecans: Toasted pecans add a nice crunch. If you don’t have them, walnuts or almonds would be great substitutes. Just toast them a bit for extra flavor!
Goat Cheese or Feta: This cheese adds creaminess. I find goat cheese has a lovely tang. If you want a non-dairy option, try crumbled tofu mixed with some herbs for a similar effect.
How Do You Grill Peaches to Get That Perfect Char?
Grilling peaches is a great way to enhance their natural sweetness. Follow these simple steps for the best result:
- Ensure your grill is hot before adding the peaches. This helps achieve those lovely grill marks!
- Cut the peaches in half and brush them lightly with olive oil. This keeps them from sticking to the grill.
- Grill the peach halves cut-side down for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be warm and slightly softened, not mushy.
- Turn them gently if you want more char, but remember to keep an eye on them. Remove once golden and juicy.
Let them cool slightly before slicing. This makes them easier to handle and a wonderful addition to your salad!
Easy Grilled Peach Salad With Fresh Greens
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups mixed fresh salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and spring mix)
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
For The Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling and dressing)
- 1-2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to grill the peaches, making it a quick 15-minute meal. Perfect for a busy summer day or a leisurely weekend lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This ensures that the peaches will get beautifully charred and caramelized.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Lightly brush the peach halves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to help prevent them from sticking to the grill. This also adds a bit of flavor!
3. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peach halves cut-side down on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until you see grill marks and the peaches start to soften. If you like a bit more char, you can turn them halfway through. Once done, remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, blackberries, blueberries, and toasted pecans. This mix adds wonderful color and texture to your salad!
5. Add the Grilled Peaches:
Slice the grilled peaches into wedges or slices and add them gently to the salad bowl.
6. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese over the salad. This adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peaches.
7. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze or vinegar over the salad. This dressing brings everything together!
8. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors!
9. Toss Gently:
Toss all the ingredients gently to combine, taking care not to mash the fruit. You want everything evenly coated and mixed!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, vibrant salad! It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own.
Enjoy the delicious contrast of warm, sweet grilled peaches against the fresh berries, crunchy pecans, and creamy cheese in this easy-to-make salad!
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Grilled Peach Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t available, you can use nectarines, plums, or even sliced mango. Just make sure the alternative fruit can be grilled and complements the salad’s flavors.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting.
Can I Prepare the Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare most of the salad ingredients ahead. Grill the peaches and mix the salad greens with berries and nuts, then keep them in the fridge separately. Just assemble and dress right before serving for the freshest taste!
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with feta or even a crumbled blue cheese for a stronger flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu mixed with herbs or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
