This Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is a refreshing mix of sweet and tangy flavors. It features juicy grilled peaches paired with vibrant blueberries, all tossed with greens.
The best part? It’s super easy to put together! I love making it for summer picnics or barbecues. It feels fancy, but you know it just takes a few minutes. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are key for sweetness and flavor. If they’re out of season, nectarines work well too. They won’t have the same fuzzy skin but will give you a similar taste!
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor and beautiful color. If they’re not available, try using blackberries or strawberries as a tasty alternative.
Red onion: The thin slices add a sharpness that contrasts nicely with the sweet fruit. You could swap in a sweet onion or even shallots if you prefer a milder taste.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor. In a pinch, you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil, but I love the extra richness of olive oil.
Balsamic vinegar: This salad shines with balsamic vinegar’s tang. If you need a substitute, apple cider vinegar can add a different not but pleasant zing; just use a little less to avoid overpowering the dish.
Feta cheese: The salty feta is optional, but I think it adds a lovely creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a non-dairy feta or simply leave it out!
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches is super simple but achieving that perfect grill mark and texture is what makes them special. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your grill is hot! Medium-high is best. You want those grill marks.
- Brush the peach halves generously with olive oil. This helps them not stick to the grill and keeps them juicy.
- Place cut-side down on the grill and let them sit without moving for about 4-5 minutes. This allows for nice char marks.
- Check for softness; they should be slightly tender but not mushy. Remove them from the grill when ready.
Grilled peaches should be warm and sweet, adding a new layer of flavor to your salad that you don’t want to miss!
Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and grill. After grilling, the cooling and tossing will take another 5-10 minutes, making the total time around 25 minutes. Quick and easy for a fresh, flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your peaches and onions cook perfectly and get those beautiful grill marks!
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
While the grill is heating, brush the peach halves and the sliced red onion with olive oil. Don’t forget to season them with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. It’s the little things that make your salad shine!
3. Grill the Peaches:
Now, place the peach halves on the grill cut-side down. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks and they start to soften. You want them to be warm and juicy, not mushy!
4. Grill the Red Onions:
Once the peaches are done, add the red onion slices to the grill. Cook them for another 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re tender and have those lovely grill marks, just like the peaches.
5. Cool and Slice:
After grilling, remove the peaches and onions from the grill and let them cool for a minute. Once they are cool enough to handle, slice the grilled peaches into wedges. This will make them easy to mix into the salad!
6. Combine the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced grilled peaches, grilled onions, and fresh blueberries. This colorful mix is not only beautiful but also packed with flavor!
7. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the salad with balsamic vinegar and a little more olive oil if you like it extra tasty. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top and gently toss everything together until well mixed. Be gentle, we don’t want the blueberries to squish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top before serving for that extra touch of creamy goodness. Serve your salad warm or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light main course. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before grilling. This helps achieve that smoky flavor without steaming the fruit.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Blueberries?
Don’t worry! You can substitute fresh blueberries with other berries like raspberries or strawberries, or even use dried cranberries for a different texture and flavor. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the peaches and blueberries may become softer, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh if possible. If you have leftover dressing, store it separately and drizzle it over the salad right before serving.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the grilled peaches and onions in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just combine everything right before serving for the best flavor and texture. If you’re adding feta cheese, it’s best to add that just before serving as well!
