This refreshing grilled peach and blueberry salad is a delight! Juicy peaches and sweet blueberries come together with a simple dressing for a perfect summer dish.
You can whip this up in no time, and it looks so pretty on the table! I love serving it as a light appetizer or a side at BBQs—it always gets smiles! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star here! Look for ones that yield slightly to pressure. If you can’t find peaches, nectarines are a great substitute, offering a similar taste and texture.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries work best in this salad. If they’re out of season, frozen blueberries can be used, just thaw and drain them well before adding.
Red Onion: This adds a sharp bite. If you want something milder, go for green onions or shallots. Grilled red bell peppers also add a sweet touch!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil or a flavored oil if you like, such as garlic-infused olive oil.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Them Falling Apart?
Grilling peaches can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get great results:
- Choose peaches that are ripe but firm. This helps them hold their shape during grilling.
- Preheat the grill properly. A hot grill creates nice grill marks and caramelizes the sugars in the fruit.
- Brush the peaches with oil to create a barrier that helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
- Keep an eye on them while grilling. They need just 3 to 4 minutes per side—too long can lead to mushiness.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled peaches that enhance your salad wonderfully!
Easy Grilled Peach and Blueberry Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 medium red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- Red chili flakes (optional, a pinch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes to grill, totaling around 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick summer meal or a delightful side dish at your next barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This step is important for getting those nice grill marks and perfect caramelization on the fruit.
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
Brush the peach halves and sliced red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season them lightly with salt and pepper for added flavor.
3. Grill the Peaches and Onions:
Place the peaches and onion slices on the grill. Grill the peaches for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they have beautiful grill marks and are slightly softened. Grill the onions for about 3 to 5 minutes until they are lightly charred and tender.
4. Cool and Slice:
Once grilled, carefully remove the peaches and onions from the grill and let them cool slightly. After cooling, slice the grilled peaches into wedges.
5. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the peach wedges, grilled onions, and fresh blueberries. This is where all the delicious flavors come together!
6. Add Dressing:
Drizzle the remaining olive oil along with balsamic vinegar and honey or maple syrup (if using) over the salad mix. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
7. Final Seasoning:
Taste the salad and add more salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional red chili flakes if desired for a little heat.
8. Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the salad with freshly chopped parsley and chives, tossing lightly to distribute the herbs throughout.
9. Serve or Chill:
This salad can be enjoyed right away for the freshest flavor or chilled briefly in the fridge for a refreshing summer dish. Either way, it’s sure to impress!
Enjoy this light and colorful salad that brings together the sweet, smoky flavor of grilled peaches with the burst of fresh blueberries, making it a perfect side for any summer gathering!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Peach and Blueberry Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Peaches?
Absolutely! Other stone fruits like nectarines or plums work wonderfully. You can also experiment with grilled watermelon or pineapple for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the grilled peaches may become softer, so it’s best to enjoy the salad fresh!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
You can prepare the grilled peaches and onions ahead of time and toss them with the blueberries and dressing just before serving. This way, everything stays fresh and vibrant!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Salad?
If you prefer a sweeter salad, add more honey or maple syrup to taste. Conversely, if you’d like to reduce sweetness, simply omit the honey or balsamic vinegar from the dressing.
