Grilled Peach Salad 2 Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it perfectly captures the essence of summer with its juicy grilled peaches and vibrant mix of greens. It’s the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors, making it a guaranteed hit for any casual gathering or solo indulgence!

Salad 2, Grilled Peach, combines sweet ripe peaches with creamy feta cheese, crumbled, and toasted pecans for a perfect balance of flavors. I love how mixed salad greens add the nutritional punch; the sweet, dark balsamic glaze and the olive oil enhance the dish; and fresh, fragrant basil makes this a vibrant summer salad.

Ingredients

Peaches:
The addition of vibrant flavors makes them sweet and juicy, and rich in vitamins A and C.

Olive Oil:
Fats that are good for the heart, enrich, and help with nutrient absorption.

Feta Cheese:
Smooth texture, increases protein content, delivers a zesty, salty counterpoint.

Pecans:
Crunch and richness in healthy fats; sources of fiber and minerals.

Basil:
Smelling good, being fresh, and being earthy is an antioxidant punch.

It’s flavor enhancers.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Set your grill to medium heat to warm it up.

2. Using a pastry brush, coat the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil.

3. Cut the peaches in half and take out the pit. Place the peaches cut side down on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear. Flip and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes.

4. Take the grilled peaches off the grill and let them sit for a moment so they can cool down. After that, take each half and cut it into slices.

5. In a big bowl, mix the salad greens, feta cheese, pecans, and basil.

6. Add the salad mixture to the grilled peach wedges.

7. Make sure to drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad.

8. To taste, season with salt and pepper.

9. Gently toss all ingredients together to combine into a salad.

10. As a cooling summer meal, serve right away.

Equipment Needed

1. Grill
2. Pastry brush
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Large bowl
6. Tongs or salad servers
7. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• Q: Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh peaches?A: To get the best flavor and texture, it is recommended that you grill fresh peaches. Peaches from a can probably won’t make it through the grilling process without falling apart.
• Q: What can I use as a substitute for feta cheese?Feta cheese can be replaced by goat cheese or blue cheese, depending on which flavor you prefer.
• Q: How can I make this salad vegan?A: This salad can easily be made vegan by omitting the feta cheese. You can either use a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to get that cheesy flavor that we all know and love.
• Q: Can I prepare any components of the salad ahead of time?A: The salad greens and pecans can be prepared in advance. However, the peaches should be grilled just before serving to achieve maximum caramelization and a warm flavor that will take this dish over the top.
• Q: What is balsamic glaze, and how do I use it?A: Balsamic glaze is a reduction of balsamic vinegar and can be used as a dressing or drizzle. It adds a sweet yet tangy flavor to the salad.
• Q: What other nuts can be used instead of pecans?A: Pecans can be replaced with walnuts or almonds, which are great substitutes that provide the same crunch and the kind of flavor that pairs well with everything from chocolate to sweet potatoes.

Substitutions and Variations

Nectarines or plums that are ripe can take the place of peaches.
Substitute avocado oil or grapeseed oil for olive oil.
Feta cheese: Substitute goat cheese or ricotta salata.
Pecans toasted: Substitute walnuts or almonds.
Balsamic glaze: Use honey with a splash of balsamic vinegar instead.

Pro Tips

1. Choose the Right Peaches Opt for peaches that are ripe but firm. They should give slightly to pressure but not be mushy, ensuring they hold their shape when grilled.

2. Toast Pecans Perfectly Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant. This brings out a deeper nutty flavor and adds a crunchy texture to the salad.

3. Enhance the Balsamic Glaze If you want a more intense flavor, consider making your own balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or sugar until it thickens. This adds a homemade touch and can be adjusted to taste.

4. Layering for Presentation When assembling the salad, place the mixed greens first, followed by an artful arrangement of grilled peaches and a sprinkle of feta, pecans, and basil. Drizzle the balsamic glaze in a circular motion for an appealing look.

5. Experiment with Proteins For added protein, consider topping the salad with grilled chicken or prosciutto slices. This turns the dish into a more substantial meal and pairs well with the sweet and savory elements of the salad.