This refreshing summer salad features grilled peaches that are sweet, juicy, and slightly smoky. Tossed with fresh greens and a drizzle of honey vinaigrette, it’s a tasty treat!
I love how easy this salad is to make. Just grill the peaches and mix them with your favorite greens. Perfect for hot days when you want something light and delicious! 🍑🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star of this salad! Opt for freestone peaches for easier grilling. If peaches aren’t available, nectarines or plums also work well.
Mixed Salad Greens: I like using a mix of peppery arugula and soft baby spinach. You can substitute with kale or romaine based on your preference.
Cheese: Feta adds a nice salty contrast to the sweetness of the peaches. Goat cheese is creamier but give it a try if you prefer it. Dairy-free? Just leave it out or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch. If you’re nut-free, consider using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead. They add great texture too!
How Do You Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches brings out their sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat. This helps to caramelize the sugars.
- Brush the peach halves with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance grill marks.
- Grill cut side down first for 3-4 minutes, then flip for a short time to get them tender.
- Let them cool slightly before slicing; this keeps the juice in and prevents dripping.
These steps will help you achieve perfectly grilled peaches, elevating your summer salad!
Summer Grilled Peach Salad with Sweet Honey Vinaigrette
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
For the Sweet Honey Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prep and an additional 10 minutes to grill the peaches. In total, you’ll need around 20 minutes to have this delicious summer salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium heat. This will help give the peaches those perfect grill marks and a nice, smoky flavor.
2. Grilling the Peaches:
Lightly brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. Once your grill is hot, place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the peaches start to soften. Then, carefully flip the peaches and grill the skin side for another 2 minutes. Once done, remove them from the grill and let them cool a bit.
3. Making the Vinaigrette:
While the peaches are cooling, let’s whip up the sweet honey vinaigrette! In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or white balsamic), honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Assembling the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced red onion, toasted nuts, and crumbled cheese (feta or goat cheese). Slice the cooled grilled peaches into wedges and add them to the salad.
5. Dressing the Salad:
Now, drizzle the sweet honey vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the yummy flavors are mixed well.
6. Serving:
If you like, garnish your salad with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch! Serve the salad immediately as a light and refreshing summer dish. Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors!
Bon appétit! 😊🥗
FAQ for Summer Grilled Peach Salad with Sweet Honey Vinaigrette
Can I Use Different Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches are out of season or you want a different flavor, try using nectarines, plums, or even grilled pineapples. These fruits can also bring a delightful sweetness to the salad!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. For the vinaigrette, ensure your honey is replaced with agave syrup or maple syrup for a plant-based option!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from getting soggy.
Can I Make the Vinaigrette Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the honey vinaigrette up to a week in advance. Just store it in a sealed jar in the fridge. Before using, give it a good shake to mix the ingredients back together.
