Summer is the perfect time for a fresh salad, and I'm excited to share my Grilled Peach Burrata Salad with you. This dish brings together sweet, smoky peaches and creamy burrata for a burst of flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s packed with health benefits too! Ready to impress your friends and family with a delightful summer dish? Let’s dive into the ingredients and get grilling!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Refreshing Summer Flavors: This salad combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the creaminess of burrata, creating a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and minimal cooking time, this recipe allows you to whip up a stunning dish in no time.
- Textural Contrast: The crunchy candied pecans add a delightful texture that complements the creamy cheese and soft peaches, making each bite exciting.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad visually appealing, making it a showstopper at any table.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 8 ounces burrata cheese
- 4 cups arugula or mixed greens
- ½ cup candied pecans
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
This salad has many healthy ingredients. Peaches are high in vitamins A and C. They help your skin and boost your immune system. Burrata cheese is creamy and rich in calcium. It supports strong bones. Arugula adds peppery flavor and is full of antioxidants. Candied pecans give you healthy fats and protein. Olive oil is great for heart health, packed with good fats. Balsamic glaze adds flavor without many calories.
Suggested Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find burrata, try fresh mozzarella. It still adds creaminess. For greens, spinach or kale work well too. Instead of candied pecans, use walnuts or almonds for crunch. If you want a vegan option, replace burrata with avocado. You can also skip the cheese and add chickpeas for protein.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Grilling Instructions
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This step is vital for juicy peaches. While the grill heats up, take your ripe peaches and slice them in half. Remove the pits. Brush the cut sides with one tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt on them.
Once your grill is hot, place the peaches cut side down. Grill them for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want nice grill marks and a slight softness. After that, flip the peaches over and grill for another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove them from the grill and let them cool a bit.
Assembling the Salad
Grab a large serving platter. Lay down 4 cups of arugula or mixed greens as the base. Next, take the burrata cheese and tear it into pieces. Nestle these pieces among the greens. Now, slice the grilled peaches. Place these slices on top of the greens and burrata.
To add some crunch, sprinkle ½ cup of candied pecans over the salad. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze. Use 2 tablespoons of each. Finish by adding freshly cracked black pepper and more salt if you like. Top with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
Serving Suggestions
This salad serves four, making it perfect for sharing. Enjoy it as a light meal or a side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it at a summer gathering. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will impress your guests!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Grilling Peaches
Grilling peaches is simple and fun. Start with ripe peaches. They should feel slightly soft to touch. Halve and pit them to prepare for grilling. Brush each half with olive oil. This helps them not stick to the grill. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to enhance the sweet flavor. Place the peaches cut side down on a hot grill. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want nice grill marks and a soft texture. Flip them and grill for another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove and let them cool slightly before adding to your salad.
How to Choose the Right Burrata
When it comes to burrata, freshness is key. Look for burrata that feels soft and creamy. Check the packaging date to ensure it is fresh. Choose burrata with a smooth, white outer shell. This means it has good quality cheese inside. If you can, smell the burrata. It should have a mild, milky scent. Fresh burrata will elevate your salad and pair perfectly with the grilled peaches.
Increasing Flavor with Seasoning
Seasoning makes a big difference in flavor. Use coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper for the best taste. Drizzle extra olive oil on the salad for richness. A balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang that contrasts well with the peaches. Feel free to sprinkle herbs like basil for freshness. These simple touches will enhance your salad and make it truly delicious.
Pro Tips
- Choose Ripe Peaches: Make sure to select peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor and sweetness. Ripe peaches will caramelize beautifully on the grill.
- Use Fresh Burrata: Opt for fresh burrata cheese instead of packaged for a creamier texture and richer flavor. The freshness makes a significant difference in this dish.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of olive oil and balsamic glaze according to your taste. A little extra glaze can enhance the sweetness of the peaches.
- Experiment with Greens: While arugula adds a peppery kick, try mixing in other greens like spinach or kale for added nutrients and different textures.
Variations
Adding Proteins for a Full Meal
You can make this salad a full meal by adding proteins. Grilled chicken or shrimp pair well with the sweet peaches. You can also use sliced steak for a heartier option. If you prefer plant-based proteins, try chickpeas or grilled tofu. Each option adds flavor and nutrition, making your meal more satisfying.
Gluten-Free Options
This salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your balsamic glaze is gluten-free. You can enjoy all the flavors without worry. If you want to add grains, consider quinoa or brown rice. Both are gluten-free and add great texture to the dish.
Flavor Enhancements with Additional Ingredients
You can enhance the flavors of your salad with some extra ingredients. Try adding crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Fresh mint or cilantro can give it a fresh taste. A sprinkle of chili flakes adds a nice kick if you enjoy some heat. Each addition can take the salad to a new level of deliciousness.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your Grilled Peach Burrata Salad, let it cool first. Place the salad in an airtight container. Make sure to keep the dressing separate to avoid soggy greens. This helps keep the salad fresh and crunchy. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Recommended Storage Containers
Use glass or plastic containers with a tight seal. Glass containers help to keep the salad fresh longer. If possible, use containers with dividers. This way, you can separate the greens, burrata, and peaches. It prevents any mixing and keeps flavors intact.
Reheating or Enjoying Cold
This salad is best enjoyed cold. If you prefer it warm, avoid reheating the whole salad. Instead, gently warm the grilled peaches in a pan. Add them back to the salad just before serving. The burrata should remain soft and creamy. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
You can use canned peaches, but fresh peaches taste better. Fresh peaches offer a sweet, juicy bite. Canned peaches may be softer and less flavorful. If you use canned peaches, choose those packed in juice, not syrup.
What to pair with Grilled Peach Burrata Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. The light flavors of the salad complement these proteins. You can also serve it with crusty bread or a light pasta dish. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the meal.
How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
You can store this salad in the fridge for up to two days. Keep it in an airtight container. The arugula may wilt, so enjoy it fresh for the best taste. If you have leftovers, add more fresh greens before serving.
This blog post shared how to make a delicious Grilled Peach Burrata Salad. We explored key ingredients, their health benefits, and substitutions. You learned step-by-step grilling instructions and tips for perfect flavor. We also discussed variations for protein and gluten-free options. Plus, we covered storage and answered common questions.
Now, you have the tools to create this meal. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making it your own! Happy cooking!
