This grilled peach and burrata salad is a tasty mix of sweet and creamy! The juicy peaches bring a lovely summer flavor, while the burrata cheese adds a rich, velvety touch.
What’s better than salad that feels like dessert? I love drizzling a bit of honey on top and adding some fresh basil. It’s like a party in my mouth! 🍑🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are essential for sweetness and juiciness. If they’re out of season, you can try nectarines or even plums for a similar flavor.
Burrata Cheese: While burrata adds creamy richness, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach is tender and mild, but mixed greens or arugula can add extra flavor. If you’re not a fan of leafy greens, try using grilled zucchini or roasted asparagus.
Pistachios: They provide crunch and a nutty taste. If allergic, walnuts or sunflower seeds work nicely, while pumpkin seeds add a fun twist.
Dill: Fresh dill gives a bright note to the salad. You can swap it with basil for a different flavor or even parsley for a more neutral taste.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Burning Them?
Grilling peaches can be tricky, but a few simple steps make it easy. Start by preheating your grill on medium-high, which ensures that the peaches cook evenly.
- Brush the peach halves with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper; just a pinch enhances their sweetness!
- Place them cut side down on the grill for 3-4 minutes. Turn them when they have nice grill marks. Finish by grilling skin side for another 2-3 minutes.
- Let them cool slightly before adding to your salad; this helps retain their juices and prevents them from falling apart.
How to Make Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup pistachios, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or basil for a different flavor)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Honey, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes of prep and grilling time. So, in just about 20 minutes, you’ll have a fresh and tasty dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. It’s important to get it nice and hot so the peaches get those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Next, brush the halved peaches lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on them for extra flavor. This will help elevate the sweetness of the peaches once they are grilled.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes until you see beautiful grill marks and they feel slightly softened. Flip them over to the skin side and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes. Once done, take them off the grill and let them cool for a few minutes.
4. Assemble the Salad:
On a large serving platter, start by layering the fresh baby spinach as your base. Then, add the grilled peach halves and the halved cherry tomatoes on top. This will create a colorful and inviting presentation!
5. Add the Burrata:
Gently tear the burrata cheese into pieces and nestle them among the other salad ingredients. The creamy texture of the burrata will add a lovely richness to the dish.
6. Top with Nuts and Herbs:
Sprinkle the roughly chopped pistachios and fresh dill (or basil) over the salad for that extra crunch and freshness. You’ll love how they complement the other flavors.
7. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This simple dressing will elevate your salad even more.
8. Drizzle and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and, if you like, a little honey for added sweetness. Mix everything gently to combine the flavors. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute with nectarines, apricots, or even plums for a similar sweet and tangy flavor. Just follow the same grilling steps, and adjust the cooking time if the fruits are smaller or larger.
What Can I Substitute for Burrata Cheese?
If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or goat cheese can work as excellent substitutes. Just tear or crumble them into pieces and add them to your salad. Keep in mind that goat cheese will have a stronger flavor compared to the mild burrata.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftover salad, keep the components separate if possible. You can refrigerate the grilled peaches and salad ingredients in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the burrata cheese and substitute it with a creamy vegan alternative, like a cashew-based cheese or avocado for creaminess. You can also amp up the flavors by adding some roasted chickpeas for protein!
