This Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is a cheerful mix of sweet grilled peaches and juicy blueberries. Toss in some fresh greens, and you’ve got a dish that’s bright and tasty!
I love how the warm peaches add a yummy twist to this salad. It’s perfect for summer days or whenever you want a refreshing treat. Just toss and enjoy—so easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches bring sweetness and juiciness to the salad. If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute with nectarines or even grilled mango for a tropical twist.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor. Frozen blueberries could work too, just thaw them first and drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy salad.
Red Onion: The sharpness of red onion adds a nice kick. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using green onions or shallots instead.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and a salty touch. For dairy-free diets, try crumbled avocado or a plant-based cheese instead.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches is all about achieving that perfect char and softened texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Hot enough to leave good grill marks is key.
- Brush the peach halves lightly with olive oil. This helps them release easily and enhances the flavor.
- Place them cut side down on the grill. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes—don’t rush it!
- Check for grill marks before removing them. They should be nicely charred. Let them cool before slicing.
These steps ensure your peaches not only look great but taste fantastic in the salad! Enjoy experimenting!
How to Make Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 medium ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes for grilling. That’s a quick 25 minutes total! Perfect for a light and refreshing meal, especially on a warm day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your peaches get that nice, smoky flavor when grilled.
2. Grill the Peaches:
While the grill is heating up, lightly brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. This helps prevent them from sticking to the grill. Now, place the peach halves cut side down on the hot grill. Let them grill for about 4-5 minutes until they become nicely charred and softened. The grilling will bring out the sweetness of the peaches!
3. Slice the Grilled Peaches:
Once they are grilled, carefully remove the peaches from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, slice them into wedges – they should be tender and bursting with flavor!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the grilled peach wedges, fresh blueberries, and your sliced red onion. This colorful combination is not only pretty to look at, but it also offers a fantastic mix of flavors!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey (if you’re using it). Add a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper to taste. This dressing will tie all the flavors together beautifully.
6. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss everything together until it’s well coated. Be careful not to mash the blueberries!
7. Final Touches:
Add the chopped parsley for a fresh burst of flavor. Toss it again gently. If you love feta cheese, sprinkle some crumbled feta over the top just before serving to add a creamy, savory contrast.
8. Serve:
Your Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is ready! It tastes great warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the combination of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors with each bite!
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
While fresh peaches offer the best flavor and texture, you can use canned or frozen peaches in a pinch. If using canned peaches, drain them well to prevent excess moisture. For frozen peaches, thaw them completely and pat dry before grilling to ensure they don’t become mushy on the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or have dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative. Each will add a unique flavor while maintaining the creamy texture of the salad!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, to prevent the salad from becoming soggy, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. The blueberries and peaches may lose their texture over time, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Nuts to This Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. Feel free to add other seasonal fruits like strawberries or nectarines, or include nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Just keep in mind that some fruits may not need to be grilled, so adjust cooking times accordingly!
