This Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is a fresh and tasty dish! Juicy grilled peaches mix perfectly with sweet blueberries, crunchy greens, and a light dressing to make every bite delightful.
I love how easy it is to whip up this salad, and it’s great for summer gatherings. Plus, who can resist that sweet grilled fruit? It’s like a party for your taste buds! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are key for a juicy sweetness. If they’re out of season, nectarines can be a great substitute. I find grilling really enhances their flavor, making them soft and caramelized.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a burst of color and natural sweetness. If they’re not available, consider raspberries or blackberries as tasty alternatives. Just ensure they’re ripe!
Red Onion: The slight sharpness of red onions compliments the salad well. If you find them too pungent, try using sweet onions or green onions instead for a milder flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a tangy depth to the dressing. If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can work too. Just adjust the amount since they vary in intensity.
How Do You Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches adds a delightful smoky sweetness. The key is to choose ripe peaches and prepare them correctly.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This ensures even cooking.
- Brush the cut sides with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Grill for 2-4 minutes. Look for grill marks and a slight softness—this means they’re ready!
- Let them cool slightly before slicing; this helps retain their juices and makes them easier to handle.
How to Make Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lime wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-30 minutes if you decide to chill it before serving. Grilling the peaches and onions adds a wonderful flavor, and mixing everything together is quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, prepare the peaches and red onion. Brush the cut sides of the peach halves and the sliced red onion with some olive oil. This will help them grill nicely!
2. Grill the Peaches:
Once the grill is hot, place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 2-4 minutes, or until you see some lovely grill marks and they are slightly softened. When they’re ready, remove the peaches from the grill and let them cool a bit.
3. Grill the Red Onion:
Next, place the sliced red onion on the grill. Grill the onion for about 2-3 minutes until they become tender and have a nice char. Take them off the grill when done.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, slice the grilled peaches into wedges and add them along with the grilled red onion and fresh blueberries. This colorful mix is coming together beautifully!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will create a delicious dressing to tie all the flavors together.
6. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to combine. Then, fold in the chopped parsley for some extra freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve the salad immediately with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. If you prefer a deeper flavor, refrigerate the salad for about 15-30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your vibrant and refreshing Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches or Blueberries?
While fresh peaches and blueberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones in a pinch! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before grilling the peaches and mixing the salad to avoid sogginess.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. If you prefer a sweeter taste similar to balsamic, try adding a splash of maple syrup or a bit more honey to balance the flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the peaches may get a bit softer over time. If you want to maintain freshness, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! This salad is versatile. Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, crumbled feta or goat cheese for creaminess, or even leafy greens like spinach or arugula for additional volume and nutrition!
