Is there anything better than the sweet allure of summertime flavors? As the sun warms the evenings and the days grow longer, I find myself craving dishes that celebrate the season. This Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad has become my go-to for those laid-back summer nights. The moment I grilled my first peach, the sweet aroma wafting through the air was like an invitation to savor the moment. When paired with creamy burrata, fresh basil, and toasted pine nuts, it transforms simple ingredients into an elegant culinary experience.
Imagine sinking your fork into perfectly caramelized peaches that burst with flavor, complemented by the rich, milky texture of burrata. This salad not only looks stunning on the plate, but it also caters to various dietary preferences—making it perfect for gatherings or a lovely solo dinner on the patio. With just a few minutes of preparation, you’ll surprise yourself and your loved ones with a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. So, let’s fire up that grill and create a vibrant salad that embodies the essence of summer!
Why is Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad a Must?
Unique Flavors: The combination of grilled peaches and creamy burrata creates a delightful burst of summer flavors that is both luscious and satisfying.
Quick Prep: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Versatile Delight: It caters to various dietary preferences—vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-carb—ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it.
Stunning Presentation: Served on a platter, this salad is a feast for the eyes, guaranteed to impress your guests at summer barbeques or garden parties.
Make-Ahead Option: Grilled peaches can be prepared in advance for added convenience, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your gathering.
Let this Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad become your go-to summer dish!
Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- Peaches – Use ripe but firm peaches for grilling to avoid mushiness.
- Burrata Cheese – Adds a creamy element; can substitute with fresh mozzarella if needed.
- Fresh Basil – Contributes a fragrant herbal note; feel free to mix different types based on preference.
- Pine Nuts – These lend a crunchy texture; try walnuts or almonds for a change.
For the Dressing
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances flavors when used for grilling and drizzling.
- Balsamic Reduction – Adds acidity and sweetness; balsamic vinegar can be used for a simpler alternative.
- Honey – A natural sweetener for drizzling; runny or warmed honey works best for easy application.
- Sea Salt & Fresh Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
Transform your summer gatherings with this refreshing Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!
How to Make Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad
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Preheat the Grill: Begin by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures those delicious char marks and smoky flavors on your peaches.
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Prepare the Peaches: Halve the peaches and remove the pits carefully. Brush the cut sides generously with extra virgin olive oil, which will help them grill beautifully without sticking.
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Grill the Peaches: Place the peaches on the grill cut side down. Grill for about 5-8 minutes, or until they become bubbling and beautifully caramelized. You want them to be tender yet still hold their shape.
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Arrange the Salad: On a serving platter, arrange the creamy burrata in the center. Surround it with the grilled peaches, creating a stunning display of color and texture.
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Drizzle with Dressing: Generously drizzle olive oil and honey over the peaches and burrata for that perfect flavor balance.
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Add Crunch and Freshness: Top the salad with toasted pine nuts and torn basil leaves for a touch of crunch and aromatic freshness.
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Final Touches: Drizzle with balsamic reduction and sprinkle sea salt and fresh ground black pepper to enhance all those vibrant flavors.
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Serve and Enjoy: Tear the burrata just before serving to expose its creamy center. Dive into this summer delight and savor every bite!
Optional: For an added twist, sprinkle with your favorite nuts or herbs before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad
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Choose Ripe Peaches: Ensure your peaches are ripe yet firm to withstand grilling without turning mushy.
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Grill at the Right Temperature: Maintaining medium-high heat is crucial for achieving those perfect char marks and sweet caramelization without overcooking.
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Dress Just Before Serving: To keep the salad fresh and vibrant, drizzle with olive oil and honey right before serving, preventing wilting of the basil.
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Use Quality Burrata: Opt for high-quality burrata cheese for the best creamy texture; it’s worth the extra indulgence in this grilled peach & burrata salad.
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Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to swap pine nuts for other nuts like walnuts or almonds for added flavor and crunch!
Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful salad with your favorite ingredients and flavors, transforming it into something uniquely yours.
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Cheese Swap: Substitute burrata with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist that complements the sweetness of peaches. Both options add a delightful creaminess and rich depth.
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Protein Boost: Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a satisfying protein boost, making this salad a heartier meal option. A touch of char from the grill enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Greens Addition: Toss in some arugula or spinach for extra greens and a peppery bite, contrasting nicely with the sweetness of the grilled peaches and creamy cheese.
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Nutty Variation: Experiment with different nuts like pistachios or walnuts for a unique twist. Each nut brings its own flavor and crunch, creating additional layers to each bite.
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Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle with a little sriracha or add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that balances with the sweet peaches, giving your salad an exciting heat. The contrast is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
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Dried Fruit: Incorporate dried cranberries or figs for a burst of chewy texture and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor experience while providing a lovely visual pop.
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Herb Variety: Switch up the herbs by adding mint or oregano to lend a refreshing, aromatic quality that pairs fabulously with the grilled peaches.
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Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing, enhancing the entire salad’s appeal.
Embrace these variations to make your Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad an ever-changing celebration of summer flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad
Fridge: Store assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day. To maintain the flavors and textures, it’s best to prepare the components separately until ready to serve.
Grilled Peaches: If you have leftover grilled peaches, they can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave or enjoy them cold.
Burrata Cheese: Keep leftover burrata in its packaging or in a wet paper towel in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing as it may change the texture.
Reheating: Reheat grilled peaches gently to retain their texture. Avoid overheating the burrata; instead, let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor in your Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad.
What to Serve with Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad?
As you elevate your summer dining experience, consider these delightful pairings to complement the vibrant flavors of this refreshing salad.
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Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the salad, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunch and buttery richness of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any delicious drizzles left on the plate.
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Quinoa Pilaf: A light, nutty quinoa pilaf can enhance the dish’s textures while maintaining a healthy and gluten-free side option.
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Chilled White Wine Spritzer: The crispness of a white wine spritzer, infused with citrus, complements the freshness of the salad and enhances the summer vibe.
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Roasted Vegetable Medley: A colorful mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds earthiness and a delightful roasted flavor, making for a hearty yet healthy pairing.
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Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing sorbet acts as the perfect palate cleanser to round out your meal with a sweet finale.
Discover how each of these pairings enhances your Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad experience, creating a memorable meal that captures the spirit of summer!
Make Ahead Options
These tasty Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors with minimal fuss on busy nights! You can prepare the grilled peaches up to 24 hours in advance by grilling them, letting them cool, and then refrigerating in an airtight container. This helps preserve their sweetness and smoky flavor. The burrata can also be kept in the fridge until ready to assemble. Just before serving, arrange the peaches and burrata on a platter, drizzle with olive oil, honey, and balsamic reduction, and sprinkle with pine nuts and basil for that irresistible finish. Enjoy the convenience without sacrificing deliciousness!
Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best peaches for grilling?
Absolutely! Look for peaches that are ripe yet firm to avoid mushiness when grilled. The skin should have a slight give when pressed, and there should be a sweet aroma. Avoid any peaches with dark spots all over or soft spots, indicating overripeness.
How long can I store leftover Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad?
If you have assembled the salad, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, to maintain the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to keep the components separate until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Can I freeze grilled peaches?
Yes! Grilled peaches can be frozen for future use. Just cool them completely and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To use, thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating briefly in the microwave or serving cold in salads.
What should I do if my peaches become mushy while grilling?
Oh no! If you find that your peaches are getting mushy on the grill, it’s likely they were too ripe. To prevent this in the future, make sure to choose peaches that are firm to the touch. If they do start to soften while grilling, reduce the grilling time to just a few minutes, checking often for caramelization without overcooking.
Is this salad suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Not at all! The burrata cheese used in this grilled peach & burrata salad can be substituted with a dairy-free cheese or a nut-based cheese for those with dairy allergies. Additionally, ensure that your balsamic reduction does not contain any allergens if you’re catering to someone with a specific food sensitivity. Always check labels when unsure!
What are some alternatives to pine nuts in the recipe?
Very! If you’re looking to substitute pine nuts, walnuts and almonds are excellent alternatives that will provide similar textures and flavors. You can also mix in some toasted pistachios for a delightful crunch and a hint of saltiness.
Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad: Your Perfect Summer Escape
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Halve the peaches and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides with extra virgin olive oil.
- Place the peaches on the grill cut side down. Grill for about 5-8 minutes until caramelized.
- On a serving platter, arrange the creamy burrata in the center and surround it with the grilled peaches.
- Drizzle olive oil and honey over the peaches and burrata.
- Top with toasted pine nuts and torn basil leaves.
- Drizzle with balsamic reduction and sprinkle sea salt and pepper.
- Tear the burrata before serving to expose its creamy center.