As the sun begins to set and the warm summer breeze envelops my backyard, I can’t help but think of the simple pleasures that make this season unforgettable. Recently, while hosting friends for an outdoor gathering, I rediscovered the magic of grilled peaches—a brilliant twist that instantly elevated our meal. Paired with luscious Burrata cheese and the fresh aromatics of basil, this Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad became the star of the evening.
In just 15 minutes, I created an explosion of flavors that reunited comfort and elegance on our plates. The caramelized sweetness of the peaches dances beautifully with the creamy texture of Burrata, making every bite feel like a celebration. Topped with a drizzle of honey and a splash of balsamic reduction, this salad not only pleases the palate but also caters to vegetarian, low-carb, and gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone can indulge. Join me as I guide you through creating this delightful dish that’s perfect for summer evenings and truly embodies the spirit of seasonal eating.
Why is Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad unique?
Uniqueness: This salad beautifully combines summer fruits and creamy cheese for an unforgettable dish.
Quick and Easy: It’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for effortless entertaining.
Vibrant Flavors: The sweet peaches, creamy Burrata, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic reduction create a stunning flavor explosion.
Versatility: Pair it with grilled chicken for a heartier meal or serve as a refreshing side at your next barbecue!
Health-Conscious: Fitting seamlessly into vegetarian, low-carb, and gluten-free diets, it’s a guilt-free pleasure everyone will love.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to leave your guests raving about your culinary skills!
Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- Peaches – Choose ripe yet firm peaches for grilling to achieve the perfect caramelization.
- Burrata Cheese – This creamy cheese adds richness and pairs beautifully with the grilled fruit.
- Fresh Basil – Offers a burst of aromatic freshness; any variety of basil can enhance the flavor profile.
- Pine Nuts – Adds a delightful crunch; substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different texture if desired.
For the Drizzle
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Use high-quality oil for grilling and drizzling, enhancing all the flavors of the salad.
- Balsamic Reduction – Provides a sweet yet tangy finish; if you don’t have this on hand, regular balsamic vinegar works just as well.
- Honey – Elevates the sweetness; choose runny honey for easy drizzling, or warm it slightly if needed.
- Sea Salt and Fresh Ground Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the overall flavor of this grilled peach & burrata salad.
Embrace the joy of summer with this delightful dish, perfect for sharing and celebrating the season!
How to Make Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This is crucial for achieving the right char on the peaches, ensuring they caramelize beautifully.
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Halve the peaches and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides with extra virgin olive oil to add flavor and prevent sticking to the grill.
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Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
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Prepare serving plates by placing half of a Burrata cheese on each. This creamy base will elevate the grilled peaches beautifully.
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Arrange the grilled peaches around the Burrata on the plates. Spread them out invitingly to showcase their golden hues.
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Drizzle olive oil and honey over the salad, then add a balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy finishing touch.
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Sprinkle the salad with pine nuts and torn basil leaves. This adds a delightful crunch and aromatic freshness.
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Tear open the Burrata to expose the creamy center. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Optional: Garnish with extra basil leaves for an added pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can grill the peaches up to 24 hours in advance; just allow them to cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their texture. Similarly, you can prepare the balsamic reduction and honey drizzle ahead of time—these can last up to 3 days when kept chilled. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply plate the Burrata and grilled peaches, drizzle with your prepped dressings, and top with fresh basil and pine nuts. You’ll have a gorgeous dish that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
Tips for the Best Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad
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Choose Ripe Peaches: Select peaches that are ripe yet firm for optimal grilling; overly soft peaches may not hold their shape.
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Grill Temperature Matters: Preheating the grill to medium-high ensures the peaches caramelize beautifully without becoming mushy.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange grilled peaches around the Burrata with space between them for an appealing presentation and ease of serving.
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Try Variations: Experiment with swapping Burrata for feta or goat cheese, adding a different flavor twist to your grilled peach & burrata salad.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh basil and high-quality olive oil; they elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad
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Room Temperature: Enjoy the salad fresh as soon as it’s made for the best taste and texture; it’s not recommended to leave it out for more than 2 hours.
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Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the peaches may lose some firmness.
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Freezer: Freezing the salad is not recommended due to the texture of the Burrata; it’s best enjoyed fresh.
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Reheating: If you’ve grilled peaches and need to reheat them, warm them gently on a grill pan just until heated through for optimal flavor in your grilled peach & burrata salad.
What to Serve with Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad?
Creating a delightful summer meal is all about pairing the right flavors and textures to enhance each dish.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery accompaniment adds a crunchy contrast, making every bite of your salad even more satisfying.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the sweetness of grilled peaches beautifully while refreshing the palate.
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Grilled Chicken: For a heartier option, add sliced grilled chicken; its protein balances the creaminess of Burrata, creating a complete meal.
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Mixed Greens: A simple side salad with light vinaigrette can refresh your palate, providing a crisp, peppery contrast to the creamy salad.
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Zucchini Noodles: Tossed lightly in olive oil and garlic, these noodles offer a low-carb option that echoes the fresh, summery vibe of your main dish.
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Rustic Fruit Tart: A slice of tart can round off your meal perfectly, with its sweet and tangy notes mirroring the flavors of the salad.
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Roasted Asparagus: The earthiness of roasted asparagus harmonizes well with the sweetness of peaches; add a squeeze of lemon for a zesty finish.
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Sparkling Water with Mint: Keep it refreshing with sparkling water infused with mint leaves. It’ll cleanse your palate throughout the meal.
Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful salad and create something truly unique!
- Cheese Swap: Replace Burrata with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist that complements the sweetness of the peaches.
- Fruit Alternatives: Use nectarines or plums instead of peaches for a different flavor profile and a delightful surprise in every bite.
- Crunchy Boost: Add sliced almonds or walnuts in place of pine nuts for extra texture and nutty flavor, elevating how you taste the salad.
- Avocado Creaminess: Incorporate diced avocado alongside the peaches to enhance the creamy texture and add a rich, buttery mouthfeel.
- Herbal Infusion: Experiment with herbs like mint or cilantro instead of basil for a refreshing variation that adds a bright note to your dish.
- Protein Power: Toss in grilled shrimp or chicken for added protein, transforming this salad into a well-rounded meal.
- Heat Factor: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or drizzle with a spicy honey to give the salad a surprising kick that resonates with the sweetness.
- Tangy Citrus: Add a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice before serving for a zesty brightness that perfectly balances the rich flavors.
With these variations, you can take your Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad on new and exciting journeys, making it a dish to remember!
Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of peaches should I use for the Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad?
Absolutely! Opt for ripe yet firm peaches to ensure they hold their shape while grilling. Look for peaches that are slightly soft but not overly mushy; when you press gently, they should give just a little. Avoid any with dark spots all over, as these can indicate overripeness.
How should I store leftovers of my Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3 days for the best flavor and texture. Remember, the peaches may lose some firmness as they sit, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I freeze the Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad for later?
It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the texture of the Burrata cheese. Freezing can cause it to become grainy and lose its creamy richness. If you’re looking to prep ahead, feel free to grill the peaches and keep them in the fridge, then assemble the salad fresh right before serving.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making this salad?
One common mistake is using overly soft peaches, which can turn mushy on the grill. Also, make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high for that perfect caramelization. If grilling outside isn’t an option, using a grill pan indoors works just as well. Don’t overcrowd the plate; arrange the ingredients with space to create an inviting, aesthetic presentation.
Is this salad safe for those with food allergies?
This dish is vegetarian, low-carb, and gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for many dietary needs. However, be cautious with allergies: the pine nuts can pose a risk for those with nut allergies. You could easily substitute them with seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Always double-check the ingredients in any products like balsamic reductions for hidden allergens too!
Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad: A Summer Sensation for You
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Halve the peaches and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides with extra virgin olive oil.
- Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5-8 minutes.
- Prepare serving plates by placing half of a Burrata cheese on each.
- Arrange the grilled peaches around the Burrata on the plates.
- Drizzle olive oil and honey over the salad, then add a balsamic reduction.
- Sprinkle the salad with pine nuts and torn basil leaves.
- Tear open the Burrata to expose the creamy center, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
