This Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is a fresh delight! Sweet grilled peaches and juicy blueberries come together for a colorful and tasty dish that’s perfect for warm days.
It’s a salad that feels like dessert! I love tossing in some nuts for crunch. It’s so easy to make, and it always impresses my friends. Who knew salads could be this fun? 🍑💙
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe peaches for the best flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or apricots can be good substitutes. They both have similar sweetness and texture when grilled.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries bring vibrant color and juiciness. If fresh isn’t available, frozen blueberries could work—just thaw them and pat dry before using.
Red Onion: The mild taste of red onion complements the sweetness of the fruit. If you prefer a milder flavor, you could substitute sweet onion or green onions.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds tanginess to the salad. If you run out, try apple cider vinegar or a splash of lemon juice for a bright flavor.
Feta Cheese: If you want to avoid dairy, try using vegan feta or omit it altogether. Some crumbled goat cheese could also add a nice tartness.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Burning Them?
Grilling peaches gives them a delicious smoky flavor, but it requires just the right technique to avoid charring. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. This helps prevent the peaches from sticking and burning.
- Brush the peach halves with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also creates a barrier that reduces burning.
- Place them cut-side down and grill for only 4-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Remember to let them cool slightly before cutting. This makes them easier to handle and adds to the flavor!
How to Make Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Crumbled feta cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 5 minutes grilling the peaches and then another 10 minutes mixing everything together. It’s quick and refreshing—perfect for a summer dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium heat. This helps achieve those lovely grill marks on the peaches and enhances their flavor.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
While the grill is heating up, brush the peach halves with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt on them. This will add extra flavor and help them grill nicely.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Once the grill is hot, place the peaches cut-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they have nice grill marks and are tender. Carefully remove them from the grill and allow them to cool slightly before cutting them into wedges.
4. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the grilled peach wedges, fresh blueberries, and thinly sliced red onion. This colorful mix will be the base of your salad!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully.
6. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the fruit mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to combine, being careful not to mash the blueberries.
7. Finish with Parsley:
Fold in the chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. The parsley will add a fresh touch to the salad.
8. Optional Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top for a tasty finishing touch. It adds a wonderful creaminess to the dish!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s a delicious and refreshing salad that’s perfect for a warm day. Enjoy!
Can I Use Canned Peaches for This Salad?
While fresh peaches provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned peaches in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry before grilling, as excess moisture can prevent proper grilling. Keep in mind that the grilling time will be shorter since they are already soft.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta alternative. You can also add in some toasted nuts for extra crunch and protein, such as walnuts or almonds!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the salad may lose its freshness as the ingredients marinate together. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the salad’s crispness.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can grill the peaches and prepare the salad mixture a few hours ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
