This fresh salad mixes sweet grilled peaches with peppery arugula and rich blue cheese. It’s a fun way to enjoy summer flavors anytime!
Honestly, who knew salads could be this exciting? I love throwing in extra peaches for a little sweetness. It’s like a summer party in a bowl! 😄
Making this salad is super easy! Just grill the peaches, toss everything together, and you’re ready to impress. Perfect as a light meal or a tasty side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key for this salad. Their sweetness balances the greens. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or plums make great substitutes.
Arugula: The peppery bite of arugula is fantastic here. Spinach can work in a pinch, though it’s milder. For a different flavor, try mixed greens or kale.
Blue Cheese: This cheese adds a strong tanginess. If you prefer a milder cheese, feta or goat cheese would be suitable alternatives.
Nuts: Walnuts add richness and crunch. Pecans are lovely too. For nut-free options, try pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. For the vinegar, a red wine or apple cider vinegar could be substituted for a different twist.
How Do I Grill Peaches to Perfection?
Grilling peaches gives them a wonderful smoky flavor and enhances their sweetness. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat—this ensures they cook evenly without burning.
- Brush the cut sides of the peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking and boost taste.
- Grill cut side down for 3-4 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the peaches begin to soften.
- Let them cool slightly before slicing into wedges—this helps maintain their shape when mixed into the salad.
Don’t rush this step! Proper grilling makes all the difference in your salad. Enjoy the smoky sweetness!
Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 4 cups arugula, washed and dried
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted and chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and grill the peaches. It’s quick and perfect for a light meal, bringing you fresh flavors in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your peaches grill perfectly, giving them a nice char and enhancing their sweetness.
2. Grill the Peaches:
Next, brush the cut sides of the halved peaches with olive oil. Once the grill is hot, place the peaches on it, cut side down. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see grill marks and they start to soften. This brings out a deliciously smoky flavor!
3. Prepare the Salad:
Once the peaches are grilled, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a minute. After that, slice them into wedges. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, sliced peaches, red onion, and your choice of toasted walnuts or pecans. Mix them gently to combine all those delightful flavors.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a tasty zing to your salad!
5. Toss and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine everything well. Finally, top the salad with crumbled blue cheese for that yummy, tangy finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Salad?
Absolutely! If you don’t have walnuts or pecans on hand, feel free to substitute with sliced almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds. Just make sure to toast them lightly for extra flavor!
What If I Can’t Find Ripe Peaches?
If ripe peaches aren’t available, you can also use nectarines as a substitute, as they grill nicely and have a similar flavor. Alternatively, canned peaches in light syrup can work, just make sure to drain and dry them before grilling to avoid excess moisture.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate. Place any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Avoid adding the dressing until you’re ready to eat to maintain crispness, and add more cheese before serving if desired!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the components in advance! Grill the peaches and toast the nuts up to a day ahead. Store them in sealed containers in the fridge. Assemble the salad shortly before serving for the best taste and texture.
