This Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is a celebration of summer, combining the sweetness of grilled peaches with fresh greens and a tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light dinner, this salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The vibrant colors and flavors make it a standout dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 21 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweet grilled peaches pair beautifully with the creamy cheese and zesty basil vinaigrette, creating a delightful taste experience.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the leafy greens, avocados, and nuts, this salad is as healthy as it is tasty.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or add your favorite protein to make it a complete meal. It’s perfect for various occasions!
- Seasonal Ingredients: Using fresh summer peaches and herbs ensures you’ll enjoy peak flavors in every bite.
Tools and Preparation
To make our delicious grilled peach salad, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: This tool allows you to achieve that perfect char on the peaches, enhancing their sweetness.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for mixing your salad ingredients and dressing without any mess.
- Whisk: Use this tool to blend the vinaigrette smoothly, ensuring all flavors are well combined.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 ripe but firm peaches (sliced into 8 wedges)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces leafy greens (I used a mix of arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (about 1/4 a large red onion)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced lengthwise)
- 1 medium avocado (diced)
- 4 ounces goat cheese (could swap for feta cheese)
- 1/3 cup roasted salted pistachios (roughly chopped)
For the Basil Vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons raw honey
- 1 1/2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil
How to Make Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium heat. While it’s heating up:
1. Brush the peach wedges lightly with olive oil.
2. Place them on the grill for about 3 minutes on each side until they have nice grill marks and are slightly softened.
Step 2: Prepare the Greens
While the peaches are grilling:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine your leafy greens, sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese (or feta), and chopped pistachios.
2. Toss gently to combine.
Step 3: Make the Basil Vinaigrette
In a separate bowl:
1. Add olive oil, apple cider vinegar, raw honey, dijon mustard, kosher salt, and chopped basil.
2. Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble Your Salad
Once your peaches are grilled:
1. Add them to the mixed greens.
2. Drizzle with basil vinaigrette before serving.
3. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Enjoy your refreshing Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette!
How to Serve Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
This Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is a delightful addition to any meal. It’s fresh, vibrant, and pairs well with various dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Light Lunch
- Serve it alongside a bowl of quinoa or couscous for a wholesome meal that’s full of flavor.
- Add grilled chicken or turkey slices on top for extra protein and heartiness.
Picnic Delight
- Pack the salad in individual containers for an easy-to-transport dish that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.
- Pair it with whole grain wraps filled with your choice of veggies and lean meats.
Elegant Dinner Party
- Present the salad on a large platter, garnished with extra basil leaves and pistachios for a stunning visual effect.
- Complement it with a light white fish or grilled vegetables as the main course.
Family Barbecue
- Serve this salad alongside grilled proteins like chicken or lamb to balance the smoky flavors of the barbecue.
- Offer crusty bread on the side to soak up any leftover vinaigrette.
How to Perfect Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
To achieve the ideal Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that are firm yet slightly soft to ensure they grill well and have excellent flavor.
- Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the peaches; this will create beautiful grill marks and enhance sweetness.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil can make a significant difference in the vinaigrette’s flavor profile; avoid dried herbs if possible.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, feel free to increase the amount of honey according to your taste preference.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Pairing this salad with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Grilled Veggies – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus; simply toss them on the grill for an easy side.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, parsley, and lemon juice provides a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Chickpeas – Crispy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices add crunch and protein while being easy to prepare in advance.
- Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an elegant appetizer.
- Hummus Platter – A variety of hummus served with pita chips and fresh vegetables offers a healthy option that pairs nicely.
- Couscous Salad – Couscous tossed with herbs, lemon juice, and diced vegetables brings additional texture and flavor to your table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Using Overripe Peaches: Ensure your peaches are ripe but firm. Overripe peaches can become mushy when grilled, affecting the texture of your salad.
- Skipping the Oil: Don’t forget to coat the peach wedges with olive oil before grilling. This helps achieve that perfect char and prevents sticking.
- Not Prepping Ingredients Ahead: Prepare your greens, cheese, and dressing while the peaches grill. This saves time and ensures everything is fresh when you assemble the salad.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Be sure to season your salad well. A little salt in the dressing enhances all the flavors and elevates your dish.
- Overcooking the Peaches: Grill peaches for just a few minutes until they are marked and warmed through. Overcooking can lead them to lose their sweetness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness.
Freezing Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
- It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may compromise the texture of fresh ingredients.
Reheating Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish; heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet for a few minutes, stirring gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette.
Can I use different fruits in my Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other seasonal fruits like nectarines or plums for a unique twist.
What type of greens work best for this salad?
A mix of arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce complements the grilled peaches nicely. However, you can choose any leafy greens you prefer.
How do I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey in the vinaigrette.
Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is not only vibrant and refreshing but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits, nuts, or even proteins like chicken or turkey. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light weeknight meal. Give it a try!
Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This salad combines the juicy sweetness of grilled peaches with a mix of leafy greens, creamy cheese, and a zesty basil vinaigrette, resulting in a delightful taste experience. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a light dinner, it’s not just delicious but also visually stunning. Each bite offers a burst of flavor and nutrients from fresh ingredients, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether served as a side or topped with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein, this salad is sure to impress.
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 ripe peaches
- 8 ounces leafy greens (arugula, spinach, butter lettuce)
- 1/4 cup red onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium avocado
- 4 ounces goat cheese (or feta)
- 1/3 cup roasted salted pistachios
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons raw honey
- 1 1/2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush peach wedges lightly with olive oil and grill for about 3 minutes on each side until charred and tender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine leafy greens, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, goat cheese (or feta), and pistachios. Toss gently to mix.
- In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, dijon mustard, salt, and chopped basil to make the vinaigrette.
- Once peaches are grilled, add them to the mixed salad and drizzle with vinaigrette. Toss gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (about 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg