This grilled peach and arugula salad is a refreshing treat! Sweet peaches, peppery arugula, and tangy blue cheese come together for a lovely mix of flavors.
I love how easy it is to make this salad. Just grill the peaches, toss everything together, and enjoy! It’s perfect for summer gatherings or a quick lunch. 🍑🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are crucial for this salad. Their sweetness enhances the overall flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, feel free to swap them with nectarines or plums for a similar taste.
Arugula: This leafy green offers a peppery taste that pairs well with the peaches. If you want a milder flavor, try baby spinach or mixed greens instead.
Blue Cheese: Crumbled blue cheese provides tanginess. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feta or goat cheese also work well and bring a different flavor profile to the salad.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch and richness. If you have nut allergies, consider sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as tasty alternatives.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Them Falling Apart?
Grilling peaches can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure you get those perfect marks without mishaps:
- Choose firm, ripe peaches to withstand the heat. Overripe ones might fall apart.
- Brush them lightly with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking.
- Place them cut-side down directly on the grill. Avoid moving them around before the grill marks form.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes and keep an eye on them. Remove when they’re tender but not mushy.
Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: honey or maple syrup for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes for grilling, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for a light meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. If you’re using a grill pan, just heat that up on the stove. We want it hot enough to give those beautiful grill marks on the peaches!
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on top. This will enhance their flavor while they grill.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes, or until you see good grill marks and the peaches are tender. When they’re done, take them off the grill and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing them into wedges.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the fresh arugula, sliced grilled peaches, red onion, and the toasted nuts if you’re using them. This creates a beautiful mix of colors and textures!
5. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the balsamic vinegar. This will be your tasty dressing. Drizzle it over the salad and toss everything gently to mix it all together.
6. Add the Blue Cheese and Season:
Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top of the salad. Season with extra salt and pepper to taste, giving it that wonderful punch of flavor.
7. Sweeten It Up (Optional):
If you like a hint of sweetness, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the salad just before serving. This step is optional but can add a nice touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese is ready to be served! It’s a delightful and refreshing dish, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh Ones?
While fresh peaches give the best flavor and texture, you can use canned peaches in a pinch! Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture. Canned peaches won’t have the same caramelization as grilled fresh ones, but they’ll still work well in the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the blue cheese and use a vegan cheese alternative or skip cheese entirely. You can also add some avocado for creaminess. Additionally, swap the honey for maple syrup or agave syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The arugula and dressing can wilt if mixed, so keep them apart. Enjoy them within 1-2 days for the best freshness. When ready to serve, toss them together for a quick meal!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Salad?
Absolutely! While walnuts and pecans are delicious, you can use any nuts you prefer. Almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds would add a nice crunch. Just remember to toast them for extra flavor before adding to the salad!
