This grilled peach burrata salad is a summer treat! Sweet peaches, creamy burrata cheese, fresh greens, and a tangy balsamic drizzle dance together in this tasty dish.
Who knew fruit could be so fancy? Seriously, the warm peaches and cool cheese make my taste buds giggle with joy! I love serving it as a light lunch or as a side at barbecues.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are key for sweetness and flavor. If they’re out of season, nectarines can be a great substitute, as they have a similar taste and texture.
Burrata Cheese: Burrata lends a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella or goat cheese can be used, but they’ll offer a different flavor profile.
Mixed Greens: I love using arugula for its peppery bite, but you can stick with spinach or spring mix. If you’re looking for a heartier option, kale is also a great choice!
Balsamic Vinegar: The balsamic drizzle adds tanginess. If you’re looking for a less sweet option, red wine vinegar mixed with a little honey can work in a pinch.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Them Falling Apart?
Grilling peaches can be tricky! To keep them intact, make sure they are ripe but not overripe. Here are my tips:
- Slice peaches in half and remove the pit. Keep the skin on for stability—this keeps them from falling apart while grilling.
- Brush them lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance their sweetness.
- Place them cut-side down on the grill and don’t move them for the first few minutes. This helps get those nice grill marks and makes flipping easier!
Grilled Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic Drizzle
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)
For The Balsamic Drizzle:
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 10 minutes for grilling and making the balsamic drizzle. In total, plan for about 25 minutes to bring this delicious dish to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it heats up, wash and halve your peaches, removing the pits. This is your time to make those peaches shine!
2. Grill the Peaches:
Brush the cut side of each peach half lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle them with a dash of salt. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. You should see lovely grill marks and the peaches should soften slightly. Flip them over and grill for another 2 minutes on the skin side. Once done, remove them from the grill and let them cool a bit.
3. Make the Balsamic Drizzle:
While the peaches cool, let’s whip up that wonderful balsamic drizzle. Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the honey (or maple syrup) and stir gently while it simmers. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reduces by about half—this will take around 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, take it off the heat and let it cool.
4. Assemble the Salad:
Get a large bowl or individual serving plates ready. Arrange the mixed salad greens as a base. Now, slice the grilled peaches into wedges and place them nicely over the greens. Tear apart the creamy burrata cheese into generous chunks and spread it on top of the salad.
5. Finish It Off:
Top your salad with the torn basil leaves and sprinkle some toasted nuts if you like a bit of crunch! Finally, drizzle your balsamic glaze and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over everything. Give it a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in right away! This salad is best enjoyed fresh when the flavors are vibrant and the ingredients shine. Enjoy the beautiful balance of sweet, creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors!
Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season, try grilling nectarines, plums, or even pineapple for a delightful twist. Just make sure the fruit is ripe for the best flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
It’s best to store leftovers separately. Keep the salad greens, grilled peaches, and burrata cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just toss the greens and add the peaches and cheese fresh!
Can I Make the Balsamic Drizzle Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the balsamic drizzle in advance and store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick reheat on the stove or in the microwave before using, as it may thicken when chilled.
Is This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
To make this salad vegan-friendly, simply omit the burrata cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The flavors from the peaches, greens, and balsamic drizzle will still make for a delicious dish!
