This refreshing salad mixes juicy grilled peaches with creamy burrata cheese, creating a perfect summer dish. The sweet and savory flavors make every bite a delight!
Honestly, who knew peaches could be this fancy? I love serving it as a light lunch or a side dish at BBQs. It’s super easy to make, and you can impress your friends in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches bring sweetness and a juicy texture. If you can’t find fresh peaches, nectarines or plums can be a great substitute. They grill well and offer similar flavors.
Burrata cheese: This creamy cheese is key to the dish. If burrata isn’t available, you can use fresh mozzarella or goat cheese, but the texture will be different. I enjoy the creaminess of burrata, so I recommend trying to find it!
Pistachios: They add a nice crunch. If you’re allergic, you could swap in walnuts or sunflower seeds for a similar texture. Always feel free to leave them out if you prefer a nut-free option.
Dill: Fresh dill adds a bright flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use fresh basil or parsley instead. Each herb will give a unique twist to the salad.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches is simple but needs some attention to detail. The key is to heat your grill to medium-high, which caramelizes the sugars for a lovely flavor.
- First, brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil to help them not stick.
- Place them cut-side down on the grill. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them, allowing those lovely grill marks to form.
- Watch for slight softening; this means they’re ready to come off the grill. Let them cool a bit before adding to your salad.
How to Make Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 8 ounces burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pistachios, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Honey, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare. This includes around 10 minutes for grilling the peaches and another 10 minutes to assemble and season the salad. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will ensure that the peaches get nicely caramelized.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with a little olive oil. This helps to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Carefully place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see those beautiful grill marks and the peaches are slightly softened. This adds a lovely smoky flavor!
4. Cool the Peaches:
Once grilled, remove the peaches from the grill and set them aside to cool slightly. We want them warm, not hot!
5. Assemble the Salad:
On a large serving platter, start by layering the baby spinach. Next, add the grilled peach halves and torn burrata cheese. The creamy burrata pairs beautifully with the sweet peaches!
6. Add Toppings:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped pistachios on top. This adds color and crunch to your salad.
7. Drizzle the Dressing:
Now, drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. This will elevate all the flavors!
8. Garnish:
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh dill. If you like it sweet, add a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of flavor. It’s optional but highly recommended!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your grilled peach and burrata salad immediately. It’s perfect as a fresh salad or a side dish at your next gathering. Enjoy the delicious flavors!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! While peaches bring a lovely sweetness, you can substitute them with nectarines, apricots, or even plums. Just grill them the same way—cut-side down until softened—for that delicious caramelized flavor!
What if I Can’t Find Burrata Cheese?
No problem! If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella makes a great substitute. Simply tear it into pieces and layer it into the salad for a creamy texture. You can also try goat cheese for a tangy twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the fridge. However, keep the grilled peaches and salad components separate to avoid sogginess. Enjoy within 1-2 days for the best freshness!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can grill the peaches and prepare the salad components in advance. Store everything separately in the fridge and assemble just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant!
