This vibrant salad brings together sweet grilled peaches and juicy blueberries. Topped with fresh greens, it’s perfect for a light meal or a side dish at summer barbecues!
I love how the warm peaches balance the cool blueberries—it’s like a party in your mouth. Plus, it takes only minutes to throw together. What’s not to love? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: Peaches bring natural sweetness and a juicy texture. If they aren’t in season, you can use nectarines for a similar taste or canned peaches (just drain and rinse them) for convenience. I love using ripe peaches for the best flavor.
Blueberries: These add a burst of flavor and antioxidants. If blueberries are out of reach, try raspberries or strawberries. Both will work well while adding their unique twist to the salad.
Red Onion: The red onion adds a nice crunch and sharpness. If you find it too strong, you can use green onions or shallots for a milder flavor. I personally prefer not to skip onions at all because they really enhance the dish!
Balsamic Vinegar: This tangy ingredient complements the sweetness of the fruit beautifully. If you don’t have balsamic, apple cider vinegar is a great alternative, though it has a different flavor profile. I often combine balsamic with a hint of honey for extra sweetness!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy and salty kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or omit it altogether. I think feta really brings the dish together, so I highly recommend it if you can!
How Can I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches is key to developing their flavor, but timing is everything. You want the grill to be at medium heat so the peaches cook gently without burning. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Brush the sliced peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for good grill marks and a slightly softened texture.
- Let them cool slightly before adding to your salad to keep their shape.
Taking these steps will ensure your peaches are beautifully grilled and ready to shine in your salad! Enjoy the grilling process as it brings out an amazing depth of flavor in the fruits.
How to Make Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Components:
- 4 fresh peaches, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This grilled peach blueberry salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will help achieve those lovely grill marks on the peaches and red onions.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Take the sliced peaches and brush them lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle a bit of salt over them to enhance their flavor.
3. Grill the Fruits:
Place the peach slices and thinly sliced red onions directly on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and a slight softening of the fruits. This caramelizes the natural sugars, making them taste even better!
4. Cool the Grilled Ingredients:
Once they’re beautifully grilled, remove the peaches and onions from the grill and let them cool for a moment.
5. Mix in the Berries:
In a large bowl, combine the warm grilled peaches, grilled red onion, and fresh blueberries. The warm peaches will mix wonderfully with the cool blueberries!
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and the remaining olive oil over the fruit mix. Season it fresh with salt and pepper to taste. This adds all the flavor that brings the dish together.
7. Toss it Gently:
With care, toss the salad gently to combine all the nice flavors together without mashing the fruits. You want everything to blend smoothly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish it with fresh parsley and, if you like, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra creamy touch.
9. Enjoy Your Salad:
This salad is delicious warm or at room temperature. Serve it up and enjoy the refreshing flavors of grilled peaches and blueberries!
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead?
While fresh peaches provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned or frozen peaches in a pinch! If using canned, drain and pat them dry. For frozen peaches, thaw them first and drain excess moisture to avoid a soggy salad.
What Other Fruits Can I Add to This Salad?
Feel free to mix in other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries for added flavor and color! Just make sure to adjust the quantity slightly to keep the salad balanced.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the grilled peaches and onions may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can grill the peaches and onions a few hours in advance and let them cool before combining them with the blueberries and dressing. Just wait to add the fresh parsley and feta until you’re ready to serve for the best flavor!
