This Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is a sweet and fresh treat! Juicy grilled peaches mix perfectly with plump blueberries, adding a burst of flavor to your meal.
Every bite is like a sunny day! I love tossing in some crunchy nuts for extra texture. It’s a fun, colorful dish that’s easy to make and great for summer picnics!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star here, bringing sweetness and juiciness. If they’re out of season, nectarines or plums can be good substitutes, although they won’t have the same flavor.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a pop of color and sweetness. If fresh aren’t available, frozen blueberries can work, but they may release more juice when thawed.
Red Onion: The sharpness of red onion complements the sweetness. If you prefer a milder taste, use green onions or shallots instead.
Olive Oil: A staple for grilling and dressing, it enhances flavors. For a different profile, avocado oil or a flavored olive oil can be a nice change.
Balsamic Vinegar: It adds a tangy depth to the dressing. For a sweeter alternative, consider using apple cider vinegar or citrus juice like lemon or lime.
Feta Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess and saltiness. If you want a dairy-free option, try using marinated tofu or omit it completely.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches is simple, but there are a few tips to ensure they turn out delicious. Start with ripe peaches for the best flavor and texture. Here’s how to get it right:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve those nice grill marks.
- Brush the cut sides with olive oil, which helps prevent sticking and enhances caramelization.
- Place the peaches cut side down and grill for about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’re ready when they have nice char marks.
- Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before slicing. This helps maintain their shape and flavor.
Following these steps will make your grilled peaches a delightful addition to 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
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh and flavorful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and grill the peaches, plus an optional 20-30 minutes to chill in the fridge for enhanced flavor. Overall, it’s a quick and refreshing dish perfect for warm days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will make sure your peaches get that lovely grill char!
2. Grill the Peaches:
Take your halved peaches and brush the cut sides with olive oil. Place them on the grill, cut side down, and grill for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be nicely caramelized and have beautiful grill marks. Once done, remove them from the grill and let them cool a bit.
3. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, take the grilled peaches and slice them into wedges. Add the fresh blueberries and the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be the delicious dressing for your salad!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the peach and blueberry mixture. Gently toss to ensure everything is well coated with the dressing. You want to keep the peaches intact as much as possible.
6. Add Fresh Parsley:
Now, sprinkle in the chopped parsley and give it another light toss. This will add a burst of freshness to your salad!
7. Optional Feta Cheese:
If you’re a fan of feta, sprinkle the crumbled cheese over the salad just before serving. It adds a nice creamy touch!
8. Serve or Chill:
Enjoy your salad immediately for the freshest taste, or if you prefer, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Either way, you’ll have a delicious grilled peach blueberry salad to enjoy!
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
While fresh peaches are best for grilling, you can use canned peaches if necessary. Just drain them well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture. Since canned peaches are softer, skip grilling and add them directly to the salad for a sweet touch!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may get a bit watery due to the blueberries, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. If you’ve added feta, consider storing it separately to keep it fresh.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately up to a day in advance. Just combine them right before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
What Other Fruits Can I Add to the Salad?
Feel free to get creative! Other fruits like strawberries, blackberries, or even watermelon work beautifully in this salad. Just ensure the flavors complement the grilled peaches for a delicious blend!
