This Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is a refreshing mix of sweet grilled peaches, juicy blueberries, and crunchy greens. It’s a perfect side for summer picnics!
Nothing says summer like a fruity salad! I love how easy it is to throw together, and you can even add nuts for some extra crunch if you want. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches bring a juicy sweetness that’s hard to beat. If they’re out of season, you can use nectarines for a similar flavor. Canned peaches can work in a pinch, though grilling them is encouraged to enhance the taste.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are essential for their burst of flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen blueberries can be a good alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
Red Onion: The thinly sliced red onion adds a nice sharpness. If you prefer something milder, consider using green onions or sweet onions like Vidalia. They will give a less pungent flavor.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor of the grilled peaches. You can substitute with avocado oil or any neutral oil if needed, but olive oil is my personal favorite for its taste.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds depth and tang. If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar mixed with a little sugar for sweetness.
Honey: While honey is great for sweetness, use maple syrup for a vegan option. Agave syrup also works well if you’re looking for something different.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches can be tricky if you want to get that perfect char without overcooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—this ensures the peaches cook evenly.
- Brush the cut side of the peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking. It also enhances the flavor while grilling.
- Place them cut side down directly on the grill. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes. Look for nice grill marks as a sign they’re ready.
- Keep an eye on them; you want them softened but still holding their shape. Remove them when they have the desired char.
- Allow them to cool a bit before slicing into wedges. This makes for easier handling and prevents burning your fingers.
How to Make Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Components:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: feta cheese or goat cheese for topping
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to grill the peaches. Altogether, you’ll have a fresh, vibrant salad ready in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help get those nice grill marks on the peaches and enhance their sweetness.
2. Grill the Peaches:
Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil to keep them from sticking. Once the grill is hot, place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the peaches feel a bit soft. Remove them from the grill and let them cool down slightly.
3. Prepare the Salad Base:
While the peaches are cooling, grab a large bowl. Add the fresh blueberries and thinly sliced red onion. This combination will add a burst of flavor and texture to your salad.
4. Add Grilled Peaches:
Now it’s time to slice the grilled peaches into wedges. Gently add the peach wedges to the bowl with blueberries and onions. Give it a little stir to mix them together.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing is sweet and tangy, perfect for enhancing the salad’s flavors.
6. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure the fruit is nicely coated with the dressing.
7. Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the salad and give it a light mix to combine. The parsley adds a fresh touch!
8. Top It Off:
If you want, crumble feta cheese or goat cheese on top before serving. This adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory elements of the salad.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your salad immediately for the best experience! If you prefer, you can also refrigerate it for a short while to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your refreshing grilled peach blueberry salad!
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
While fresh peaches are ideal for grilling, you can use canned peaches in a pinch! Just make sure to drain and rinse them well, then grill them briefly to warm up. Keep an eye on them since they’ll have a softer texture than fresh ones.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup, as you’ve noted in the ingredients. Additionally, skip the cheese topping or use a vegan cheese alternative for added creaminess without compromising on your dietary choices!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the peaches and blueberries may soften over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh! If you do store it, avoid adding the cheese until you’re ready to serve again to keep it fresh.
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add other fruits like strawberries, cherries, or even nectarines. Just make sure whatever fruit you choose is ripe for the best flavor. Experimenting will make this salad even more delightful!
