This colorful salad mixes sweet grilled peaches with spicy arugula and creamy blue cheese. It’s a perfect balance of flavors that makes your taste buds happy!
Honestly, who knew grilled fruit could be so amazing? I love how this salad brightens up any meal. Toss in some nuts for crunch, and you’ve got a fresh winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are essential for sweetness and flavor. If out of season, try nectarines or plums for a similar taste.
Arugula: This leafy green adds a peppery kick. You can substitute spinach or mixed salad greens if you prefer a milder flavor.
Blue Cheese: The creamy, tangy blue cheese really enhances the salad. If you’re not a fan, feta or goat cheese can be excellent alternatives.
Red Onion: Fresh, sliced red onion gives a nice crunch. If you want less sharpness, go for green onions or chives instead.
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add texture. If nut allergies are a concern, skip them entirely or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches may seem tricky, but it’s straightforward! The goal is to achieve those lovely grill marks while keeping the fruit tender. Here’s how:
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high for optimal heat.
- Brush the cut sides of peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking and to help with browning.
- Grill cut side down for 3-4 minutes and then flip for another 2-3 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- Let them cool a bit before slicing, which makes them easier to handle.
If you want an extra flavor boost, consider sprinkling a bit of brown sugar on the peaches before grilling! It helps to create a delicious glaze.
Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (like basil or mint), optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to grill the peaches. So, in total, you’ll need about 25 minutes! Perfect for a refreshing dish that comes together quickly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This is important to get those lovely grill marks on your peaches!
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Brush the cut sides of your peach halves with some olive oil, then sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on them to add flavor.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Carefully place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes until you see nice grill marks and they start to soften. Then, flip them over and grill for another 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove the peaches from the grill and let them cool slightly before slicing.
4. Toss the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the arugula, grilled peach slices, sliced red onion, and chopped nuts if you’re using them. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
5. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will be the delicious dressing for your salad!
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently again to combine all the flavors beautifully.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Top your salad with crumbled blue cheese and sprinkle some fresh herbs on top if you’d like. This adds a lovely touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your grilled peach and arugula salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Blue Cheese?
Absolutely! If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute with feta cheese for a tangy flavor, goat cheese for creaminess, or even aged cheddar for a sharp taste. Just crumbled any of these alternatives before adding to the salad!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store leftover components separately. Place the arugula and grilled peaches in one container and the dressing in another. This will help prevent the greens from wilting. Assemble and dress the salad when you’re ready to enjoy it again, ideally within 1-2 days.
Can I Prepare the Peaches Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can grill the peaches in advance. Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to use, toss them into the salad to add that delicious grilled flavor!
What If I Can’t Find Ripe Peaches?
If ripe peaches aren’t available, you can use nectarines or plums as a substitute. They have a similar texture and will still taste amazing when grilled. Just ensure they’re at room temperature for best grilling results!
