If you’re searching for a light, vibrant salad that’s sure to impress, look no further than this Grilled Peach Burrata Salad. With juicy peaches, creamy burrata, and crunchy walnuts, it’s packed with flavors that sing summer! You’ll love how easy it is to make, and the tips I’ll share will ensure you grill the perfect peaches every time. Ready to savor this fresh treat? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
To create a delicious Grilled Peach Burrata Salad, you need these fresh ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
– 200g burrata cheese, at room temperature
– 4 cups mixed greens (a combination of arugula, spinach, and frisée)
– 1/4 cup walnuts, lightly toasted and roughly chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze for drizzling
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
– A handful of fresh basil leaves, for garnish
These ingredients combine to create a fresh and flavorful treat. The juicy peaches add sweetness, while the creamy burrata adds richness. The mixed greens offer a crisp base, and toasted walnuts provide a nice crunch. Balsamic glaze adds a tangy touch that ties everything together. The sea salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors. Fresh basil elevates the dish with its aromatic notes. Enjoy this salad as a light meal or a side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Grill
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is key for perfect grilling. A hot grill gives the peaches nice char marks. While the grill heats up, take your ripe peaches. Lightly brush the cut sides with extra virgin olive oil. This helps them grill evenly and adds flavor. Then, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and a few cracks of black pepper on the peaches. This seasoning enhances their natural sweetness.
Grilling the Peaches
Now, it’s time to place the peaches on the grill. Set them cut side down on the grates. Grill the peaches for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want to see beautiful char marks. The peaches should feel slightly tender when you touch them. If they feel too soft, they may be overcooked.
Assembling the Salad
While the peaches are grilling, grab a large bowl. Add the mixed greens to create a fresh base. Once the peaches are ready, remove them from the grill. Let them cool for a few minutes. Slice the grilled peaches into wedges for easier mixing. Now, gently add the sliced peaches and toasted walnuts to the greens. Toss everything together to combine.
Next, take the burrata cheese. Tear it into rustic pieces and place it on top. This creamy cheese is the star of the salad. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over everything. Season your salad with more sea salt and black pepper to taste. Finally, add fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm peaches with the creamy burrata!
Tips & Tricks
Grilling Perfect Peaches
How do I check for ripeness?
To find ripe peaches, look for a slight give when you press them. The skin should also have a rich color. Avoid peaches that feel hard or have dark spots. Ripe peaches will taste sweeter and grill better.
How can I avoid sticking on the grill?
Brush the cut sides of peaches with olive oil. This step helps to prevent sticking. Make sure your grill is hot before adding the peaches. Place them cut side down for grilling. This method creates a lovely char and makes them easier to flip.
Serving Suggestions
What are ideal pairings with the salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. A glass of chilled white wine also complements the flavors nicely. For a fresh twist, serve with a side of crusty bread.
How should I plate for presentation?
Arrange the mixed greens on a large plate. Place the grilled peach slices on top, followed by the burrata. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad. Finish with a sprinkle of walnuts and fresh basil for color and texture.
Enhancing Flavor
How can I adjust seasoning to taste?
Start with sea salt and black pepper. Taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take away. If you like heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
What are recommendations for balsamic alternatives?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, try using lemon juice or red wine vinegar. These options add a nice tang. Honey or maple syrup can also enhance sweetness if you prefer.
Variations
Adding Proteins
You can make this salad heartier by adding protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp work great. Just season and grill them alongside the peaches. Prosciutto is another tasty option. Its savory flavor complements the sweet peaches perfectly.
Cheese Alternatives
Burrata is creamy and rich, but you can try other cheeses. Goat cheese adds a tangy touch. Feta brings a salty kick. If you’re looking for vegan options, try cashew cheese or tofu. Both can mimic burrata’s texture and taste well.
Seasonal Variations
Change up the fruits based on what’s in season. Strawberries or figs can add new flavors. You can also swap mixed greens for seasonal options. Kale or arugula can add a nice twist. Adapting to what’s fresh keeps the salad exciting.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store any leftover salad, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the salad fresh. If you have leftover peaches, keep them in a separate container. This prevents sogginess. You can also store burrata in its original container. Just cover it tightly.
– Use a clean spoon for serving to avoid contamination.
– Store the salad in the fridge for up to two days.
Meal Prep Tips
You can prepare parts of this salad ahead of time. Slice the peaches and grill them in advance. Store them in a container with a lid. You can also wash and dry the greens. Keep them in a bag with paper towels for freshness.
Assemble the salad just before serving. This keeps the greens crisp and vibrant. Add the burrata just before you eat. This way, it stays creamy and soft.
Refrigeration Guidelines
If you store the salad properly, it lasts about two days. Check for signs of spoilage. If the greens look limp or brown, toss them. If the burrata smells sour or looks off, it’s best to discard it.
Remember, freshness is key for the best taste. Always trust your senses when checking for spoilage.
FAQs
What is burrata cheese?
Burrata cheese is a creamy delight. It has a soft outer shell made of mozzarella. Inside, it holds a rich, creamy filling. This unique texture makes it a favorite in many dishes. Compared to mozzarella, burrata is creamier and richer. Mozzarella is firmer and less creamy. You can enjoy burrata fresh on salads or with bread. Its mild flavor pairs well with many ingredients.
Can I use canned peaches?
You can use canned peaches, but fresh is best. Canned peaches change the texture. They can be mushy and less sweet. If you use canned ones, choose peaches in juice, not syrup. Drain them well before grilling. This helps avoid excess liquid in your salad.
How do I make a vegan version?
To make a vegan version, swap burrata for vegan cheese. Nut-based cheeses work well. For dressing, use a mix of olive oil and lemon juice. You can add maple syrup for sweetness. Consider adding extra veggies like avocado or chickpeas. This keeps the salad hearty and tasty.
What dressing pairs well?
Balsamic glaze is great, but other dressings work too. Try a lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard. You can make a simple dressing with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix them in a jar and shake before drizzling. This adds a fresh flavor to your salad.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prep parts of the salad ahead of time. Grill the peaches and store them in the fridge. Keep the greens separate until you serve. This keeps them fresh and crisp. Assemble the salad just before serving to enjoy the best taste.
This blog covered a refreshing grilled peach salad with burrata cheese, mixed greens, and walnuts. You learned how to grill peaches perfectly and assemble a delicious dish. I shared tips for flavor enhancement, storage, and meal prep. Consider personal touches with proteins or different cheeses. This dish is versatile and easy, perfect for any meal. Enjoy trying new variations and make it your own. Your taste buds will thank you for this delicious creation!
