Grilled Peach Burrata Salad

When the summer peaches arrive, making this grilled peach and burrata salad instantly becomes my seasonal go-to for picnics and quick lunches. The blend of warm caramelized fruit and creamy burrata wrapped in herby lemon vinaigrette just feels like summer on a plate, ready within minutes and always a hit at the table.

Ingredients

• Peaches or nectarines: Pick firm fruit for grilling as it holds shape and brings perfect sweetness
• Olive oil: Used for brushing peaches and in the vinaigrette look for extra virgin for the best flavor
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the peaches choose freshly ground pepper and a good sea salt
• Honey: Adds a light sweetness both over the peaches and in the dressing
• Red wine vinegar: Brings sharpness to the vinaigrette opt for a high-quality brand
• Lemon juice and lemon zest: Adds a burst of freshness use freshly squeezed and zest from unwaxed lemons
• Fresh basil dill and oregano: These herbs create depth and you can mix and match with whatever is fresh from your garden or store
• Garlic cloves: Adds aromatic punch mince freshly for best taste
• Burrata cheese: The creamy centerpiece use the freshest burrata possible
• Pistachios for crunch: Walnuts or almonds also work chop them for texture
• Tomatoes: Brightens up the salad use seasonal juicy tomatoes and chop just before serving
• Mixed greens: Base for your salad go for a blend like arugula spinach or baby lettuces
• Balsamic glaze: For finishing use a thicker syrupy glaze for beautiful drizzles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Peaches:

Slice the peaches or nectarines in half and take out the pits Discard the pits and brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil then sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper This step preps your fruit for perfect caramelization and flavor absorption

Grill the Peaches:

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium Clean the grates well so nothing sticks Place peaches cut side down and do not move them for about 2 to 3 minutes Flip and grill the other side for another 2 minutes The fruit should have defined grill marks and feel slightly softened When ready lift them carefully with a spatula onto a plate and drizzle a touch of honey over the warm slices

Whisk the Herbed Lemon Vinaigrette:

Finely chop the basil dill and oregano Add all vinaigrette ingredients to a small bowl including olive oil lemon juice lemon zest red wine vinegar honey and minced garlic Whisk vigorously until it looks creamy and the herbs are evenly distributed Save a pinch of fresh herbs for garnish later

Build the Salad:

Allow the peaches to cool enough to handle Slice them thinly and do the same with your tomatoes Spread a bed of mixed greens onto a large platter Tear the burrata into generous pieces and arrange them evenly Lay grilled peach and tomato slices around the cheese Sprinkle over chopped nuts and shower with fresh herbs

Dress and Finish:

Drizzle the salad with the herbed vinaigrette making sure to catch a bit of every layer Add more honey if you like extra sweetness then finish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture

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Storage Tips

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge It will stay fresh and flavorful for about two days For best texture keep the burrata separate and combine just before serving If your peaches are extra juicy blot lightly before storing to avoid sogginess

Ingredient Substitutions

No peaches Use nectarines for a slightly tangy version If you are out of burrata reach for fresh mozzarella or creamy goat cheese Mix up the herbs to suit what you have Basil and mint work especially well together Pistachios add color but almonds or walnuts make excellent substitutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a show stopping starter for a summer dinner or as a main with grilled chicken on the side For a brunch spread pair it with crusty bread and a crisp white wine Grilled peaches also taste incredible with other fruits like grilled plums or apricots

The Story of Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad

Salads like this trace back to classic Italian pairings of fresh fruit and cheese In the US summer farmers markets inspired cooks to grill native stone fruit and toss them with greens and herbs It is an easy way to bring out maximum flavor while using simple market finds

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep peaches from sticking to the grill?

Brush peaches with a light layer of oil and ensure grill grates are well-cleaned before grilling to prevent sticking.

→ Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?

Yes, nectarines work beautifully. Choose ones that are firm, not too ripe, to hold their shape while grilling.

→ What other nuts can I add to this salad?

Pistachios are delicious, but walnuts or almonds are also excellent for crunch and flavor contrast.

→ Is a grill pan a good alternative?

Absolutely! A grill pan on the stovetop can achieve similar results and beautiful grill marks for the peaches.

→ How long can leftovers be stored in the fridge?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within two days for best freshness.

→ What greens pair well with grilled peaches?

Any mixed greens work well, including arugula, spinach, baby kale, or a crisp salad blend for texture.