Grilled Peach Burrata Salad: A Summer Delight Recipe

Grilled Peach Burrata Salad: Prepare to be amazed by this symphony of flavors and textures! Imagine biting into a juicy, slightly charred grilled peach, its sweetness perfectly complementing the creamy, decadent burrata cheese. This isn’t just a salad; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of pairing peaches and burrata are relatively modern, the concept of combining sweet and savory elements in salads has roots stretching back centuries. Think of the classic Italian tradition of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create simple yet elegant dishes. This Grilled Peach Burrata Salad builds upon that foundation, elevating it with the smoky char of the grill.

People adore this dish for so many reasons. First, there’s the incredible taste – the sweetness of the peaches, the richness of the burrata, and the subtle tang of a balsamic glaze create a harmonious blend that dances on your palate. Then, there’s the texture: the soft, yielding burrata against the slightly firm peach is simply divine. But perhaps the best part is its ease of preparation. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. Trust me, once you try this Grilled Peach Burrata Salad, it will become a staple in your summer rotation!

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces burrata cheese, about 4 balls
• 5 ounces baby arugula or mixed greens
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
• Optional: Prosciutto crisps for garnish

Preparing the Peaches for Grilling

Okay, let’s get started! The key to a fantastic grilled peach salad is, well, perfectly grilled peaches. We want them to be tender and caramelized, but not mushy. Here’s how I do it:

1. Prepare the Peaches: Start by washing your peaches thoroughly. Make sure they are ripe but still firm to the touch. If they are too soft, they will fall apart on the grill. Cut each peach in half and remove the pit. I find a paring knife works best for getting the pit out cleanly.
2. Season the Peaches: In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the cut sides of the peach halves. Don’t be shy! This is where the flavor starts to build. Make sure every nook and cranny is coated.

Grilling the Peaches

Now for the fun part! Grilling the peaches brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky char that’s just irresistible. You can use a gas grill, charcoal grill, or even a grill pan on your stovetop. I prefer a gas grill for its ease of use and consistent temperature.

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Make sure the grates are clean. I like to use a grill brush to scrape off any leftover bits from previous grilling adventures.
2. Grill the Peaches: Place the peach halves cut-side down on the preheated grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the peaches are slightly softened. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. The sugar in the peaches can caramelize quickly.
3. Flip and Grill Briefly: Flip the peaches over and grill for another 2-3 minutes, just to warm the skin side. You don’t need to get grill marks on this side. We just want to ensure the peaches are heated through.
4. Remove from Grill: Carefully remove the grilled peaches from the grill and set them aside to cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle when assembling the salad.

Preparing the Salad Base

While the peaches are cooling, let’s get the salad base ready. Arugula is my go-to for this salad because its peppery flavor complements the sweetness of the peaches and the richness of the burrata. But mixed greens work just as well!

1. Wash and Dry the Greens: Wash the arugula or mixed greens thoroughly and dry them well. A salad spinner is your best friend here. Excess water will make the salad soggy.
2. Arrange the Greens: Spread the greens evenly on a large platter or individual plates. This will be the foundation for our delicious salad.

Assembling the Grilled Peach Burrata Salad

This is where the magic happens! The combination of warm, grilled peaches, creamy burrata, peppery arugula, and sweet balsamic glaze is simply divine. I like to think of it as a symphony of flavors and textures.

1. Arrange the Peaches: Once the peaches are cool enough to handle, arrange them artfully on top of the greens. You can slice them into wedges or leave them as halves, depending on your preference. I usually go for wedges for easier eating.
2. Add the Burrata: Gently place the burrata balls among the peaches. If the burrata is very large, you can cut it in half. The creamy interior will ooze out and mingle with the other ingredients.
3. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the peaches and burrata. A little goes a long way! The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the peaches.
4. Sprinkle with Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle the toasted pecans or walnuts over the salad. The nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
5. Garnish with Basil: Sprinkle the fresh basil chiffonade over the salad. The basil adds a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the other flavors beautifully.
6. Optional: Add Prosciutto Crisps: If you’re feeling fancy, add some prosciutto crisps for a salty, savory element. To make prosciutto crisps, simply bake thin slices of prosciutto in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until crispy.
7. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Finish with a light drizzle of good quality olive oil. This adds a touch of richness and helps to bring all the flavors together.
8. Serve Immediately: Serve the salad immediately while the peaches are still slightly warm and the burrata is at its best.

Tips and Variations

This salad is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

• Add a Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would be delicious additions to this salad.
• Use Different Cheese: If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or goat cheese would be good substitutes.
• Try Different Fruits: Nectarines, plums, or figs would also work well in this salad.
• Add a Vinaigrette: If you prefer a more traditional salad dressing, a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey would be a great addition.
• Make it a Meal: Serve the salad with a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storing Leftovers

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the arugula may wilt slightly, and the burrata may lose some of its creaminess. I recommend storing the components separately and assembling the salad just before serving.

Enjoy your Grilled Peach Burrata Salad! I hope you love it as much as I do.

Conclusion:

This Grilled Peach Burrata Salad isn’t just a salad; it’s a symphony of summer flavors that will dance on your taste buds! The sweetness of the grilled peaches, the creamy richness of the burrata, the peppery bite of the arugula, and the tangy balsamic glaze all come together in perfect harmony. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to impress, whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a sophisticated appetizer, or a vibrant side dish at your next barbecue.

I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it elevates simple ingredients into something truly special. Grilling the peaches intensifies their sweetness and adds a smoky char that complements the creamy burrata beautifully. It’s a dish that’s both elegant and approachable, perfect for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Looking for serving suggestions? I’ve got you covered! For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. The smoky flavors will pair perfectly with the peaches and burrata. You could also toss in some toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and nutty flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of stone fruit, like nectarines or plums, in place of the peaches. Each fruit will bring its own unique flavor profile to the salad.

Another variation I love is to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or mint. Their bright, aromatic notes will enhance the overall freshness of the salad. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of balsamic glaze. A fig balsamic glaze would add a touch of sweetness and complexity, while a white balsamic glaze would provide a lighter, more delicate flavor.

For a truly stunning presentation, arrange the grilled peaches and burrata on a platter, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crusty bread for soaking up all the delicious juices. This salad is best enjoyed immediately after grilling the peaches, while they’re still warm and juicy.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Grilled Peach Burrata Salad that I urge you to give it a try. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s perfect for showcasing the best of summer produce. It’s also a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.

But don’t just take my word for it! Get in the kitchen, fire up the grill, and experience the magic for yourself. I’m absolutely certain that this recipe will become a new favorite in your repertoire.

Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your friends and family think? Share your photos and comments with me – I’m always eager to see your creations and hear your feedback. Your insights will not only make my day but also inspire other readers to try this delightful recipe. So, go ahead, give this Grilled Peach Burrata Salad a whirl and let me know what you think! Happy grilling!