We’re living our best lives this summer with all our favorite farmer’s market finds like fresh peaches, big juicy blackberries, and peppery arugula. This grilled peach salad highlights the natural sugars in peaches to create a caramelized, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the slightly spicy arugula and other salad ingredients like tangy feta cheese, salty, crunchy pistachios, and a quick and simple vinaigrette dressing. This salad showcases the beauty of using fresh, high-quality ingredients. By sourcing fresh, ripe peaches from your local farmer’s market, you can ensure they are ripe and bursting with flavor. For more delicious recipes that use fresh peaches, check out my Fresh Peach Pie, Peach Freezer Jam, Peaches and Cream Slab Pie, Easy Peach Milkshakes, and Peach Hand Pies!
Why We Love This Recipe
Grilled peach salad is a great way to enjoy the health benefits of vitamin C-rich peaches, along with the healthy fats from extra-virgin olive oil and the protein from feta cheese and pistachios. The combination of grilled peaches, peppery arugula, and creamy feta creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Additionally, the use of fresh herbs, such as basil and mint, adds an aromatic element that elevates the entire dish. Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet!
What You’ll Need
Scroll down to the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Arugula – Provides a peppery base that balances the sweetness of the peaches. Peaches – Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. Grilling enhances their natural sugars. Blackberries – Adds a burst of tartness and vibrant color. Roasted Pistachios – Offers a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor. Feta Cheese – Provides a creamy, salty contrast to the sweet peaches. Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the sweetness of the peaches and honey. Olive Oil – A healthy fat that creates a smooth dressing. Honey – Enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches. Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor to the vinaigrette.
How to Make Grilled Peach Salad Recipe
Tips for Success
Select ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. Look for peaches that give slightly when gently pressed, indicating they are ready to be grilled. Ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat before adding the peaches. This helps to achieve those pretty grill marks and caramelization without burning. Make the dressing ahead of time to let the flavors meld together. This can enhance the overall taste of your salad.
Substitutions and Variations
Substitute arugula with a spring mix or baby spinach if you prefer a milder flavor. Swap the peaches with other stone fruits like nectarines or apricots. Use blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries instead of blackberries for a different berry twist. Replace the pistachios with crunchy pecans, walnuts, or pine nuts for a different nutty flavor. Try creamy goat cheese, blue cheese, or even burrata instead of feta cheese for a variation in creaminess and tanginess. White balsamic vinegar or lemon juice can be used in place of apple cider vinegar for a different acidic note in the dressing. Maple syrup can be a delicious alternative to honey for a different sweetness profile.
More Delicious Salad Recipes You’ll Love
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Creamy German Cucumber Salad CPK Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad Seafood Pasta Salad Fig & Pistachio Salad with Easy Balsamic Dressing Apple Salad with Candied Walnuts Heirloom Tomato Salad with Burrata Easy Orange Pomegranate Salad recipe with an Orange Vinaigrette
Alternatively, it makes for an excellent main dish. Simply throw some rotisserie or grilled chicken on top and toss. Serve with some crusty bread on the side. Consider adding a crusty baguette or some homemade focaccia to your meal. The bread can help soak up the delicious vinaigrette and adds a satisfying crunch.
