This Grilled Peach Burrata Salad is a fun mix of sweet, juicy peaches and creamy burrata cheese. Topped with a tangy balsamic drizzle, it’s a treat for your taste buds!
Honestly, who knew fruit and cheese could be so perfect together? I love serving this dish at summer BBQs because it’s fresh and easy. Plus, it makes any table look fancy! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Look for ripe peaches that yield slightly when you press them, as they’ll be the sweetest. If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute with nectarines or even plums for a similar flavor profile.
Burrata: This cheese adds creaminess to the salad. If burrata isn’t available, try using fresh mozzarella or goat cheese instead. Just keep in mind that goat cheese will have a stronger flavor.
Mixed Greens: I love using a mix of arugula and baby spinach for a peppery taste. Feel free to swap them out for any greens you enjoy or have on hand, like kale or romaine.
Balsamic Vinegar: A good quality balsamic vinegar works best for a rich flavor. If you prefer a lighter taste, a champagne vinegar or red wine vinegar can be a nice alternative, but adjust the sweetness accordingly.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Making Them Too Soft?
Grilling peaches adds a fantastic char and enhances their sweetness, but timing is crucial to keep them firm. Start by cutting the peaches in half and removing the pit. It’s best if they’re slightly firm rather than overly ripe.
- Brush the cut sides with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Grill cut side down for 3-4 minutes until you see grill marks, then flip for 1-2 more minutes. Keep an eye on them! You can also grill them on a foil sheet if you’re worried about them sticking.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if they’re not perfect the first time. You’ll get a feel for it!
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
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Balsamic Drizzle:
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
Time Estimate:
This delicious salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes grilling the peaches and making the balsamic drizzle, and then about 10 minutes assembling the salad. It’s quick, fresh, and so worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on those peaches!
2. Grill the Peaches:
Brush the peach halves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Carefully place the peaches on the grill, cut side down. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until you see lovely grill marks and the peaches start to soften. Then, flip them over and grill the skin side for another 2 minutes. Once done, remove them from the heat and set them aside.
3. Make the Balsamic Drizzle:
In a small saucepan, mix the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar). Heat it over medium until it simmers and then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl or platter, arrange the mixed greens and add fresh basil leaves. Slice the grilled peaches into wedges and add them on top of the greens.
5. Add the Burrata:
Tear the burrata cheese into chunks and distribute them evenly over the salad. It adds that creamy goodness that pairs so well with the sweetness of the peaches!
6. Add Nuts and Drizzle:
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them over the salad now. Then, drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the balsamic reduction over the top.
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for a delightful and refreshing salad experience!
This Grilled Peach Burrata Salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal on its own. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Grilled Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic Drizzle
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
While fresh peaches are ideal for grilling, you can use frozen peaches if that’s all you have. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before grilling. Grilling time may also be reduced since frozen peaches may soften faster!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace burrata cheese with a plant-based cheese or avocado for creaminess. Additionally, you can omit the honey from the balsamic drizzle and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead to keep it sweet!
How Should I 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 salad greens separate from the peaches and dressing until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness and texture.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the components ahead! Grill the peaches and make the balsamic drizzle in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh!
