This refreshing grilled peach and arugula salad is a perfect mix of sweet and savory. The juicy peaches bring a burst of flavor, while the arugula adds a peppery kick!
Throw in some creamy blue cheese, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser! I love how simple it is to whip up—just grill the peaches, toss everything together, and enjoy a sunny day on your plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star of this dish, bringing sweetness and juiciness. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use nectarines or plums as a tasty alternative.
Arugula: The peppery flavor of arugula pairs beautifully with the sweet peaches. If you can’t find arugula, baby spinach or mixed greens will work too; just note they won’t have the same bite.
Blue Cheese: Blue cheese adds a rich tang to the salad. Feta or goat cheese can be good substitutes if you prefer a milder flavor.
Nuts: Pecans are classic, but walnuts or even toasted almonds can change the flavor profile. Leaving them out altogether is fine if you want a nut-free salad!
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds acidity, balancing the sweetness of the peaches. Instead, you could use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a different zing.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches enhances their sweetness and adds a nice smoky flavor. It’s simple but requires a little care to get it just right.
- Start with a medium heat grill, so the peaches cook evenly.
- Brush the cut sides with olive oil to prevent sticking, and place them cut-side down on the grill.
- Grill for about 4-5 minutes until you see grill marks. Flip them for an extra 2-3 minutes if you want a little more softness.
- Let the peaches cool slightly before slicing them; this makes them easier to handle and adds a great texture to the salad.
How to Make Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 8 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted and chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs (like basil or mint) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook on the grill. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This is important for getting those beautiful grill marks on the peaches and ensuring they cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. This will help prevent them from sticking to the grill and adds a nice flavor.
3. Grill the Peaches:
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 the peaches start to soften. If you want them a bit more cooked, flip the peaches over and grill for 2-3 more minutes. Once done, take them off the grill and let them cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Salad Mixture:
While the peaches are cooling, grab a large bowl and combine the arugula, sliced red onion, and toasted pecans or walnuts (if you’re using them). Toss everything together gently.
5. Add in the Grilled Peaches:
Once the peaches are cool enough to handle, slice them into wedges and add them to your salad mixture. This will add a lovely sweetness to the salad.
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and an extra tablespoon of olive oil over the salad. Season it with salt and pepper to taste, then give it a gentle toss to combine all the flavors.
7. Top and Serve:
Finish your salad by sprinkling the crumbled blue cheese on top. If you like, add some fresh herbs like basil or mint for a beautiful garnish. Your Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad is now ready to serve!
Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese! It’s a perfect dish for warm days and outdoor gatherings.
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season or you prefer something different, you can substitute with nectarines, plums, or even grilled mango. Just keep an eye on the grilling time, as some fruits may cook faster or slower than peaches.
How Do I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply leave out the blue cheese and replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add more nuts or seeds for extra protein!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately to maintain freshness. Place the arugula and other veggies in one container and the peaches in another in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just combine them again before serving!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
While grilling the peaches can be done a few hours in advance, it’s best to toss the salad just before serving to keep the arugula crisp. You can prepare all the components ahead of time and assemble them right before you plan to eat!
