This Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is a tasty mix of sweet and juicy peaches with fresh blueberries. Tossed together with crunchy greens, it’s perfect for summer meals!
Nothing says summer like sweet peaches on a salad! I love how the warm flavors from the grill really bring out the best in the fruits. Enjoy it with a drizzle of balsamic for extra zing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star of this salad, giving it a sweet and juicy flavor after grilling. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use nectarines or even canned peaches (drained) for a similar effect, though fresh is best!
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a pop of sweetness and color. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen blueberries work too, but thaw them and drain excess liquid before adding to your salad.
Red Onion: The sharpness of red onion contrasts nicely with the sweetness in the salad. If it’s too strong for you, try using green onions or shallots as a milder alternative.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy tang. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or omit it entirely. Goat cheese is also a great substitute for a different flavor.
Honey: This is optional but adds a nice touch of sweetness. Maple syrup or agave can be used as substitutes, especially for vegan options.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Peaches?
Grilling peaches can be a bit tricky, but it’s worth it for the flavor! First, make sure to preheat your grill well to medium heat before placing the peaches on it. This helps caramelize their natural sugars.
- Brush the cut sides with olive oil, and don’t forget to sprinkle them with salt and pepper to enhance their taste.
- Grill the peaches cut side down for about 4-5 minutes. They should get those lovely grill marks and soften slightly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
- Let them cool for a moment before slicing them into wedges. This helps retain their juices and flavor.
With these tips, you’ll achieve that perfect grilled peach every time!
How to Make Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes if you choose to chill it in the fridge before serving. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a refreshing summer dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your peaches and onions get those nice grill marks and flavor.
2. Prepare the Fruits and Veggies:
Brush the cut sides of the peach halves and the sliced red onion with olive oil. Don’t forget to sprinkle them with a little salt and pepper to enhance their flavors!
3. Grill the Peaches and Onion:
Place the peaches and red onion on the grill, cut side down. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes. You want the peaches to be marked and slightly softened, and the onions should be tender. Once grilled, remove them from the grill and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Slice the Peaches:
Once the peaches have cooled enough to handle, slice them into thin wedges. This will make them easier to mix into the salad.
5. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large serving bowl, combine the grilled peach wedges, fresh blueberries, and the grilled red onion slices. The mix of colors will be beautiful!
6. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing is going to tie all the flavors together!
7. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over your salad mixture and gently toss everything together. You want the dressing to coat all the ingredients evenly.
8. Garnish:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the salad. If you’d like, add crumbled feta cheese for an extra touch of flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately, or for even better flavor, let it chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. Enjoy your refreshing grilled peach blueberry salad!
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
While fresh peaches are recommended for grilling, you can use canned peaches in a pinch! Drain them well and pat them dry to reduce excess moisture. However, keep in mind they won’t have the same grilling effect, so you might want to enjoy them raw in the salad instead of grilling.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, try crumbled goat cheese or a vegan cheese alternative. Additionally, you can simply omit the cheese for a lighter salad without compromising flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, avoid adding the dressing until you’re ready to eat to keep the ingredients crisp.
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add fruits like sliced strawberries, raspberries, or even mandarin oranges for a different twist. Just keep the fruit-cut sizes similar for even mixing and aesthetic appeal!
