This refreshing salad features juicy grilled peaches and sweet blueberries, making it a perfect summer treat. It’s colorful and packed with flavor!
It’s so easy to throw together, and the grilled peaches add a great twist. I like to drizzle a bit of honey on top for extra sweetness—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key for this salad, bringing a sweet and juicy flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or even ripe plums can work as great substitutes.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add pops of sweetness. Frozen blueberries can also be used in a pinch, but be aware they may be a bit softer once thawed.
Red Onion: Grilling red onions adds a touch of sweetness and flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you could substitute with green onions or shallots.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley brightens up the dish. Feel free to switch it with mint or basil, which pair well with the fruits. I sometimes like to add a splash of lemon juice for extra freshness.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Peaches?
Grilling peaches can be a bit tricky, but with the right technique, they come out delicious! Here are some tips to ensure they’re perfectly cooked:
- Use ripe but firm peaches. Overripe peaches may fall apart on the grill.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. This helps to get nice grill marks without burning.
- Brush cut sides with oil to prevent sticking and enhance caramelization.
- Grill cut side down for 3-4 minutes until you see those lovely grill marks. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Let them cool slightly before slicing for easier handling and keeping the juices inside.
Enjoy making this vibrant salad, perfect for summer gatherings or light meals!
Easy Grilled Peach and Blueberry Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil or cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, a pinch (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10-15 minutes to grill, making the total time approximately 20-25 minutes. It’s quick, making it perfect for a busy day or a last-minute gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot enough to get those lovely char marks!
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, toss together the peach halves and sliced red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to make everything flavorful.
3. Grill the Peaches and Onions:
Place the peaches cut side down on the hot grill along with the onion slices. Grill the peaches for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you see beautiful grill marks and the fruit softens slightly. Grill the onions until they are tender and slightly charred, which should take about the same time.
4. Cool and Slice:
Once grilled, remove the peaches and onions from the grill and let them cool down a bit. After they’ve cooled, slice the peaches into wedges or chunks, depending on your preference.
5. Combine the Elements:
In a large serving bowl, combine the grilled peach slices, grilled red onion, and fresh blueberries. Then, add the chopped parsley and any optional herbs you like!
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the balsamic vinegar over the salad. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the ingredients are nicely coated.
7. Season and Sweeten:
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like a touch of sweetness, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top—this is optional but highly recommended!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
This salad can be served immediately at room temperature or chilled in the fridge for later. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light dessert in the summer heat!
Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in this vibrant salad!
FAQ About Easy Grilled Peach and Blueberry Salad
Can I Use Different Fruits?
Absolutely! While peaches and blueberries work beautifully together, you can substitute peaches with other stone fruits like nectarines or plums, and swap blueberries for raspberries or blackberries depending on what you have on hand.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to keep it, just add a splash of fresh olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving to revitalize the flavors.
Can I Grill the Peaches Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can grill the peaches and onions in advance. Just let them cool completely, then store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you’re ready to mix the salad.
Is This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! This salad is vegan as is, especially if you skip the honey and use maple syrup instead for sweetness. It’s a fresh, plant-based dish perfect for summer gatherings!
