This refreshing Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad mixes sweet, juicy peaches with plump blueberries. Toss in some crunchy greens, and you’ve got a colorful dish that’s perfect for summer!
Who knew grilled fruit could taste so good? When those peaches hit the grill, their sweetness shines! I love having this salad on warm days—super easy to whip up and even better to share!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are essential for this salad’s sweet flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or apricots work well as a substitute.
Blueberries: The recipe calls for fresh blueberries for their juiciness and color. Frozen blueberries can be used, but they might be softer. If you’re avoiding blueberries, try blackberries or raspberries instead!
Red Onion: This adds a nice sharp flavor. If red onion is too strong for you, try sweet onions like Vidalia or even green onions for a milder taste.
Feta Cheese: It’s an optional but tasty addition. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try crumbled tofu or omit cheese altogether for a lighter salad.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite, but feel free to use avocado oil or even a flavored oil like garlic or herb oil for a twist.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Making a Mess?
Grilling peaches is a simple and rewarding process, but ensuring they don’t stick can be tricky. Here are some easy steps to achieve that perfect grill!
- Start with clean, hot grill grates—this helps prevent sticking.
- Lightly brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but creates a barrier against sticking.
- Place them cut-side down on the grill for 3-4 minutes. You want those nice grill marks!
- Don’t move them around too much—let them sear. Flip carefully with a spatula or tongs.
- Let them cool slightly before slicing for a neat presentation in your salad.
How to Make Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to grill, for a total time of around 25 minutes. It’s quick to make and perfect for a light meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures you get nice grill marks on the peaches and onions while cooking.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Take the peach halves and brush the cut sides with a little olive oil. This helps them not stick to the grill and adds a yummy flavor!
3. Grill the Fruits and Onions:
Place the peach halves, cut side down, and the thinly sliced red onions on the grill. Grill the peaches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see beautiful grill marks and they feel slightly tender. Grill the onions until they are softened and charred, about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
4. Cool and Slice:
Once grilled, remove the peaches and onions from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. When they’re cool enough to handle, slice the peaches into wedges.
5. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled peach wedges, the grilled onions, fresh blueberries, and chopped parsley. This colorful mix will be full of flavor!
6. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This easy dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully.
7. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine, making sure everything is nicely coated.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle feta cheese on top for extra flavor. You can serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to enhance the flavors. Enjoy this fresh and vibrant salad!
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh Ones?
While you can use canned peaches in a pinch, fresh peaches offer the best flavor and texture for this salad. If using canned peaches, be sure to drain them well and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture. Grilling may not be necessary; just add them fresh to the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also enhance the salad with more robust flavors, like adding avocado or nuts for added creaminess and texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the peaches may become mushy after sitting. If possible, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain freshness.
Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Blueberries?
Absolutely! You can substitute blueberries with other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or even diced apples for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that you’ll want to choose fruits that can complement the sweetness of the grilled peaches.
