Ready to impress your taste buds? This Grilled Peach Burrata Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that brings summer to your table. Juicy grilled peaches meet creamy burrata, all enhanced by a tangy balsamic glaze. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a quiet night, I’ll guide you step-by-step to make this delicious salad. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get grilling!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups fresh arugula or a vibrant mix of greens
– 1 ball of burrata cheese, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze, for drizzle
– 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted for depth of flavor
– A handful of fresh basil leaves, for a fragrant garnish
Special Ingredient Notes
Choose ripe peaches for the best flavor. They should give slightly when you press them. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich taste. The burrata cheese adds creaminess and balance. You can swap walnuts or pecans based on your taste. Fresh basil gives a delightful aroma and looks great.
Recommended Tools for Preparation
– Grill or grill pan
– Brush for oil
– Tongs for flipping peaches
– Large serving bowl
– Knife for cutting
– Small bowl for mixing ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Grill
First, set your grill to medium heat. Aim for about 350°F (175°C). This temperature gives peaches a nice char without burning them.
Preparing the Peaches
While the grill heats, take two ripe peaches. Cut them in half and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides with one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. This step adds flavor and helps with grilling. Then, sprinkle a bit of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper on them. This seasoning enhances their sweetness.
Grilling Peaches to Perfection
Once the grill is ready, place the peach halves cut side down on the grates. Grill them for 4-5 minutes. Look for lovely grill marks and a slightly soft texture. After grilling, take them off the heat and set them aside to cool a bit.
Assembling the Salad
Take a large serving bowl and fill it with 4 cups of fresh arugula or your favorite mix of greens. This will be the salad’s base. Next, arrange the grilled peach halves on top of the greens. Make it look nice and inviting.
Drizzling with Balsamic Glaze
Now, take 1/4 cup of balsamic glaze. Drizzle it generously over the salad. This adds a sweet and tangy flavor to each bite.
Finishing Touches and Serving
For a crunch, sprinkle 1/4 cup of toasted walnuts or pecans across the salad. This adds depth and texture. Finally, tear some fresh basil leaves and scatter them on top. They give a fragrant aroma and a pop of color. Serve the salad right away for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Grilling Peaches
Grilling peaches is simple but can be tricky. Here are my best tips to ensure perfect peaches:
– Choose ripe peaches: Look for peaches that yield slightly when pressed. They should feel soft but not mushy.
– Cut and oil: Halve the peaches and remove the pit. Brush the cut sides with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking.
– Preheat the grill: Aim for a medium heat of about 350°F (175°C). A hot grill gives those nice grill marks.
– Grill cut side down: Place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes. You want them to soften and get those beautiful grill marks.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
To make your salad burst with flavor, try these tips:
– Season well: A sprinkle of sea salt and fresh black pepper brings out the sweetness of the peaches. Don’t skip this step!
– Balsamic glaze: Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze. It adds a sweet and tangy kick that pairs well with grilled peaches.
– Nuts for crunch: Toasted walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. They also add depth to the salad’s flavor.
– Fresh herbs: Adding fresh basil gives a fragrant lift. It brightens the dish and makes it extra special.
Choosing the Right Greens
The greens you choose can make a big difference. Here’s how to pick the best ones:
– Arugula: I love using fresh arugula for its peppery taste. It balances the sweetness of the peaches.
– Mixed greens: A vibrant mix of greens can also work well. Look for greens like spinach or baby kale for variety.
– Freshness is key: Always choose fresh, crisp greens. Wilting can ruin the salad’s texture and flavor.
– Seasonal options: Consider using seasonal greens for the best taste. They are often more flavorful and have better texture.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can switch up the salad with different fruits. Try using nectarines or plums instead of peaches. Both of these fruits will add a sweet twist. If you want more crunch, swap walnuts or pecans for almonds or hazelnuts. For a different cheese, goat cheese makes a nice choice. It adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the sweet fruit.
Different Dressings to Try
Balsamic glaze adds a sweet touch, but you can explore other dressings. A honey mustard vinaigrette brings a nice zing. Just mix honey, mustard, olive oil, and vinegar. For a creamy option, a yogurt-based dressing can work well. Just mix plain yogurt with lemon juice and herbs for a fresh taste.
Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions
This salad shines at summer picnics or barbecues. Its bright colors will catch the eye. For a lunch option, serve it with grilled chicken for protein. If you want to impress guests, use a larger platter and layer the ingredients. This way, everyone can see the beautiful colors and textures.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your Grilled Peach Burrata Salad, first, let it cool down. Place any leftover salad in an airtight container. Make sure to keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess. Store it in your fridge for up to two days. This way, you’ll keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating this salad is not ideal. The peaches might lose their nice texture. If you must heat it, do so gently. Use a microwave on low power for about 30 seconds. Check often to avoid overheating. You want the salad warm, not hot.
Freezing Guidelines
Freezing this salad is not recommended. The peaches and burrata do not freeze well. They lose their taste and texture when thawed. Instead, enjoy this salad fresh. It tastes best right after you make it.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can. Feta or goat cheese adds a nice salty kick. Both pair well with the sweet peaches. If you prefer a creamier texture, use ricotta. Each cheese brings a unique taste. Experiment to find your favorite!
What other fruits can be grilled?
You can grill many fruits! Pineapple, nectarines, and apricots work well. Grilling enhances their sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Try using bananas for a sweet twist. Just slice them and grill briefly. They become soft and delicious!
How do I know when peaches are ripe?
Ripe peaches feel slightly soft when you squeeze them gently. They should also smell sweet and fragrant. Look for a deep yellow or golden color. Avoid hard or overly firm peaches. These won’t have the same juicy flavor.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! You can grill the peaches ahead and store them. Keep the greens and cheese separate until serving. This keeps everything fresh and crisp. Enjoy this salad throughout the week!
Grilling peaches is fun and easy. We covered the best ingredients, tools, and steps for a perfect salad. Remember to preheat your grill and choose ripe peaches. Use fresh greens and try different dressings to mix things up. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly! This dish is great for any occasion and tastes amazing. You can impress your friends and family with this simple recipe. Enjoy making your grilled peach salad and have fun experimenting!
