This Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is a fresh and fruity dish that bursts with flavor. Juicy peaches and sweet blueberries team up with crisp greens for a healthy treat!
Tossing in a light dressing makes it oh-so-refreshing. Whenever I make this salad, I can’t help but smile at how easy and delicious it is. It’s perfect for summer gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe peaches for the best sweetness. If peaches aren’t in season, feel free to substitute with nectarines or plums which also grill nicely.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal, but you can use frozen if fresh ones aren’t available. Just remember to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice bite. If it’s too strong for your taste, shallots or green onions can be a milder alternative.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for flavor, but any light oil will do. For a nutty taste, you could also try avocado oil.
Balsamic Vinegar: If you run out, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used in its place, though balsamic adds a sweeter touch. I prefer the richness balsamic brings.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches may seem daunting, but it’s quite simple! The key is to get them just soft enough to enjoy their sweetness without losing their shape. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This ensures a good sear on the peaches.
- Brush with olive oil and sprinkle a little salt. This enhances flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- Place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes until you see beautiful grill marks.
- Let them cool before slicing for easier handling and to prevent burning your fingers!
Don’t rush this step, as properly grilled peaches can elevate the entire salad with their smoky sweetness!
How to Make Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (for added creaminess)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. If you choose to chill it for half an hour to enhance the flavors, you’ll need a total of about 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick and healthy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting those nice grill marks on the peaches!
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Brush your peach halves with olive oil. Don’t forget to sprinkle a pinch of salt on them! This will enhance their natural sweetness.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peach halves face down on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, until you see beautiful grill marks and the peaches are slightly softened. Once done, carefully remove them from the grill and let them cool before slicing.
4. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced grilled peaches, fresh blueberries, and thinly sliced red onion. This colorful mix is already looking fantastic!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, the remaining olive oil, along with a little salt and pepper. Give it a good mix until it’s well combined.
6. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over your peach and blueberry mixture. Gently toss everything together so that the fruits and onion are nicely coated with the dressing.
7. Add Fresh Herbs:
Add the chopped cilantro or parsley to the bowl and toss again. The herbs will add a fresh flavor to your salad!
8. Optional: Add Feta Cheese:
If you like a bit of creaminess, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad just before serving.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your salad immediately for a refreshing treat, or for even better flavors, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled peach blueberry salad!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Salad?
It’s best to use fresh peaches for grilling, as frozen ones may become mushy when thawed. If you only have frozen peaches, thaw them in the fridge overnight and skip the grilling step. Instead, slice them directly into the salad for a softer texture.
What Can I Substitute For Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives. Add a little honey or maple syrup to mimic the sweetness of balsamic vinegar, just adjust to taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you’ve added feta cheese, it’s best to eat it within one day to maintain the texture and flavor. To prevent sogginess, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat!
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or even sliced apples for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to keep the overall balance so that the peaches and blueberries remain the stars of the show!
