This grilled peaches and burrata salad is a deliciously creamy and smoky dish. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for summer gatherings, and a great way to enjoy ripe peaches. The balance of flavors will make your taste buds dance!
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Why You’ll Love This Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
A Simple Yet Elegant Summer Side
This salad is not just simple; it’s elegant enough for any occasion. The grilled peaches have a warm, caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy burrata. It’s a dish that impresses without the stress of complicated cooking.
Perfect for Using Ripe Peaches
When peaches are in season, they are juicy and vibrant. This salad is a fantastic way to showcase those beautiful fruits. The grilling enhances their natural sweetness, creating a delightful contrast with the cheese.
Quick and Easy Assembly
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning salad ready to serve. It takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a last-minute gathering or a leisurely summer lunch.
Key Ingredients for Grilled Peaches and Burrata
Choosing the Best Peaches
For this recipe, select fresh peaches that are ripe but not mushy. Look for peaches with a slight give when you press them gently. The skin adds texture and flavor, so there’s no need to peel them.
Burrata vs. Fresh Mozzarella
Burrata cheese is creamier and richer than fresh mozzarella. Its luscious texture elevates the salad, bringing a touch of indulgence. However, if burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella works just as well.
The Role of Fresh Basil
Fresh basil adds a fragrant, herbal note that brightens the dish. A chiffonade of basil sprinkled on top enhances the salad’s flavor profile, bringing a fresh burst to each bite.
Balsamic Glaze vs. Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter than plain balsamic vinegar. It drizzles beautifully and adds a touch of sophistication. If you prefer, you can reduce balsamic vinegar by half on the stovetop for a homemade glaze.
Essential Seasonings
Simple seasonings like coarse salt and fresh black pepper enhance the flavors of the salad. These ingredients elevate the sweetness of the peaches and the creaminess of the cheese.
How to Grill Peaches for Salad
Preparing Your Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the peaches from sticking. A well-prepared grill will ensure those beautiful char marks.
Cutting and Grilling the Peaches
Cut the peaches into quarters, leaving the skin on for added flavor and stability. Place them on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes per side until you see beautiful char marks.
Achieving the Perfect Char
Monitor the peaches closely to avoid burning. The goal is a nice char that adds a smoky flavor without overcooking. Once grilled, transfer them to a platter and allow to cool slightly.
Assembling Your Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Arranging the Grilled Peaches
On a serving platter, arrange the grilled peach quarters attractively. Their golden-brown color and lovely shape will make your salad visually appealing.
Adding the Creamy Burrata
Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the peaches. The creamy cheese will melt softly into the warm fruit, creating a delightful combination.
Finishing Touches: Basil, Oil, and Glaze
Sprinkle the chiffonade basil over the salad. Then, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze to finish it off. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips for the Best Grilled Peach Salad
Grilling Peaches in Advance
Grill the peaches up to 10 minutes ahead of time. Allow them to cool before assembling your salad. This makes it easier to handle and enhances the overall presentation.
Avoiding Overcrowding the Grill
Don’t overcrowd the grill when cooking peaches. Working in batches ensures even grilling and helps achieve that perfect char without burning.
Optional Additions: Greens and More
To bulk up the salad, consider adding greens like arugula or baby spinach. They bring a fresh crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
Prep-Ahead Steps
Wash and chiffonade the basil in advance for quicker assembly. This little prep step makes putting the salad together a breeze.
Serving and Storing Your Salad
Best Serving Suggestions
This grilled peach salad pairs wonderfully with dishes like Crispy Chicken Cutlets With Arugula Salad or Broccoli Cashew Salad With Apples. It also complements grilled salmon or pasta dishes beautifully.
Understanding Salad Storage Limitations
Keep in mind that this salad doesn’t store well. The burrata loses its creamy texture, and the balsamic glaze can break down the fruit and basil. If you have leftovers, store the cheese and fruit separately and consume them within one day.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for grilled peaches and burrata salad?
You’ll need fresh peaches, burrata cheese, basil, olive oil, balsamic glaze, kosher salt, and black pepper.
How do I make grilled peaches and burrata salad step by step?
Start by grilling peach quarters, then arrange them on a platter, add burrata, sprinkle basil, and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
Can I make grilled peaches and burrata salad ahead of time?
You can grill the peaches in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
How should I store leftover grilled peaches and burrata salad?
Store leftover salad components separately in the fridge and consume them within one day for the best quality.
Related Recipes to try
- Crispy Chicken Cutlets With Arugula Salad
- Broccoli Cashew Salad With Apples
- Spring Pasta Salad With Honey Mustard Dressing
- Pasta Salad With Lemon
- Chicken Salad
- Broccoli Cauliflower Salad With Bacon
Conclusion
This grilled peaches and burrata salad is a delightful way to celebrate summer flavors. For more culinary inspiration, check out my Pinterest page for a variety of tasty ideas that will elevate your meals.
Grilled Peaches and Burrata Salad: A Delightful Summer Treat
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- sharp knife
- serving platter
Ingredients
- 8-10 Fresh peaches ripe but not mushy
- 3 pieces Burrata cheese or fresh mozzarella
- 4 sprigs Basil chiffonade
- 2 Tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons Balsamic glaze or 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon Coarse salt Kosher or Malden
- ¼ teaspoon Fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cut the peaches into quarters, keeping the skin on.
- Grill the peach quarters for about 5 minutes per side until they have nice char marks.
- Transfer the grilled peaches to a serving platter and let them cool slightly.
- Tear the burrata cheese into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the cooled peaches.
- Sprinkle the chiffonade basil over the salad.
- Drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Season with coarse salt and fresh black pepper, then serve immediately.
