Grilled Peach And Arugula Salad With Blue Cheese

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star here, bringing sweetness. If peaches are out of season, nectarines or plums work well too. For a fun twist, try grilling pineapple slices instead!

Arugula: This leafy green adds a peppery flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, spinach or mixed greens are great alternatives. I’ve even used baby kale for a heartier texture.

Blue Cheese: The tangy bite of blue cheese complements the salad well. If you’re not a fan, feta or goat cheese are tasty substitutes. They bring a different creaminess without overpowering the dish.

Pecans: While optional, pecans add crunch. Walnuts or sliced almonds make good substitutes. I often toast the nuts lightly for an extra layer of flavor.

Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar: These dress the salad beautifully. If you want a sweeter dressing, try using a flavored oil or vinegar. A dash of lemon juice can also brighten up the salad.

How Do I Grill Peaches Without Them Sticking?

Grilling peaches is all about strategy! To prevent them from sticking, you can brush them with olive oil before grilling. This also enhances their sweetness. Here’s how to get it right:

• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.
• Cut the peaches, remove the pits, and brush the cut sides with olive oil.
• Place the peaches on the grill cut side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks. Flip for 2-3 more minutes.
• Let them cool slightly before slicing. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from falling apart.

Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 6 cups fresh arugula
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped (optional, for added crunch)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Honey, for drizzling (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful salad can be prepared in about 15 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes grilling the peaches and another 5 minutes assembling the salad. Perfect for a quick and tasty summer meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare the Grill:

Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium heat. This is important to ensure you get those lovely grill marks on your peaches.

2. Grill the Peaches:

Take your halved peaches and brush the cut sides with olive oil. Once the grill is hot, place the peaches cut side down. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the peaches are slightly softened. Then, flip them over and grill for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the peaches from the grill and let them cool for a bit before slicing them into smaller pieces.

3. Mix the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine the fresh arugula, sliced red onion, crumbled blue cheese, and chopped pecans if you’re using them. This combination will bring lots of flavor and texture to your salad!

4. Whisk the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed. This dressing will add a lovely tangy taste to your salad.

5. Combine and Serve:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Now, add the sliced grilled peaches on top of the salad and, if you like, drizzle some honey for a touch of sweetness. Serve this refreshing salad immediately and enjoy a bright and delicious dish!

Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?

While fresh peaches provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned or frozen peaches in a pinch! If using canned, make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture. For frozen peaches, thaw them completely and pat dry before grilling to mimic the sweetness of fresh peaches.

How to Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

You can prep some ingredients ahead of time! Slice the peaches and red onion, and crumble the blue cheese, but combine everything just before serving to keep the arugula fresh and crispy. You can also make the dressing in advance; just give it a good shake before pouring it over the salad.

What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese?

If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, try feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile! Both cheeses complement the peaches and arugula well and will maintain a similar creamy texture.

How to Store Leftover Salad?

To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate, especially the arugula, which can wilt quickly. Place any leftover grilled peaches, red onion, and blue cheese in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, mix everything together again for best results!