This Grilled Peach Burrata Salad combines the sweetness of juicy peaches with the creamy texture of burrata cheese. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer, offering a delicious balance of flavors with fresh greens and a tangy balsamic glaze.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your choice)
• 8 ounces burrata cheese
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the peach halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until grill marks appear.
4. Remove the peaches from the grill and set aside to cool slightly.
5. Tear the burrata into smaller pieces and arrange on a serving platter.
6. Toss the mixed greens with honey and balsamic glaze.
7. Slice the grilled peaches and arrange them on the platter with the burrata and greens.
8. Drizzle with additional balsamic glaze, if desired, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
9. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 25 g

The Appeal of Grilled Peaches

Grilled peaches are a game-changer when it comes to adding flavor to a salad. The heat from the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the peaches, bringing out their sweetness and creating a rich smoky flavor. This transformation makes them the ideal pairing with fresh greens and creamy burrata. Grilled peaches can also be used in a variety of other dishes, but in this salad, they serve as the star ingredient that elevates the dish.

Choosing the Right Peaches

For the best grilled peach experience, choose ripe but firm peaches. Overripe peaches tend to become mushy on the grill and lose their shape, while under-ripe ones may lack sweetness and flavor. A good peach will be slightly soft to the touch but still hold its shape. The flavor will also be sweeter when the peaches have reached their peak ripeness.

The Role of Burrata Cheese

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. Its outer shell is solid mozzarella, while the inside is soft and creamy, offering a rich texture that complements the sweetness of the peaches. Burrata brings an indulgent, luxurious element to this salad, making it a perfect choice for a summer dish. The creaminess of the burrata balances the acidity of the balsamic glaze and the smokiness of the grilled peaches, resulting in a harmonious flavor profile.

The Importance of Fresh Greens

Mixed greens are a necessary foundation for this salad. They provide a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the peaches and the richness of the burrata. A mix of arugula, spinach, and even a bit of kale can work wonderfully. Arugula, with its peppery bite, adds depth to the salad, while spinach contributes a milder taste. The mixed greens serve as a fresh canvas, allowing the other ingredients to shine.

Honey and Balsamic Glaze: The Perfect Dressing

One of the key components of this salad is the combination of honey and balsamic glaze. The honey adds a delicate sweetness that ties together the earthy flavors of the greens and the smokiness of the peaches. The balsamic glaze, on the other hand, adds a tangy, slightly sweet note that enhances the overall flavor of the salad. The dressing is easy to make, yet it transforms the dish into something extraordinary, providing the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

The Versatility of the Dish

This grilled peach burrata salad is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a light main course, especially for a casual summer dinner. Alternatively, it can be an appetizer or side dish that complements grilled meats or seafood. The salad can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. For instance, you could swap out the burrata for goat cheese or feta if you prefer a different type of creamy cheese. Additionally, if you’re looking for a lighter version, you could use a reduced-fat cheese or even omit the cheese altogether and add more fruits and nuts for texture.

The Role of Fresh Basil

Fresh basil adds an aromatic touch to the salad. The herb’s fragrant leaves are the perfect finishing touch, offering a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the burrata and the smokiness of the grilled peaches. Basil also enhances the visual appeal of the salad with its vibrant green color, making the dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

The Importance of Presentation

Presentation plays a crucial role in the appeal of any dish, and this salad is no exception. Arranging the burrata, peaches, and greens in an aesthetically pleasing manner makes the salad more appetizing and visually attractive. You can serve the salad on a large platter, ensuring each element is well spaced and clearly visible. The drizzle of balsamic glaze and the garnish of fresh basil will elevate the presentation, making it perfect for entertaining or a special meal.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Peaches

Grilling peaches is simple but requires a few key tips for success. First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat so that the peaches cook evenly and develop grill marks without becoming overly charred. It’s also essential to lightly oil the peaches before placing them on the grill to prevent sticking. If you prefer a deeper caramelization, you can grill the peaches a little longer, but be careful not to overdo it, as they can become mushy.

The Balance of Sweet and Savory Flavors

The grilled peach burrata salad is a masterclass in balancing sweet and savory flavors. The sweetness from the peaches, honey, and balsamic glaze contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the cheese and greens. This balance of flavors is what makes the salad so appealing and satisfying, as it provides a little bit of everything in each bite.

Seasonality of the Dish

Grilled peach burrata salad is a celebration of summer flavors. Peaches are at their peak during the warmer months, making this dish an ideal choice for summer gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. The dish can be easily adapted for different seasons by swapping out peaches for other fruits like pears in the fall or berries in the spring, although nothing beats the combination of peaches and burrata during summer.

The Impact of Olive Oil

Olive oil is an essential ingredient in this recipe, especially when grilling the peaches. The oil helps to prevent the fruit from sticking to the grill and adds a layer of richness that complements the sweetness of the peaches. It also enhances the overall flavor of the salad without overpowering the more delicate ingredients like the burrata or mixed greens.

How to Make a Homemade Balsamic Glaze

If you prefer to make your own balsamic glaze, the process is relatively simple. Start by simmering balsamic vinegar and sugar in a saucepan until it thickens and reduces by half. The result is a rich, syrupy glaze that can be drizzled over the salad. A homemade balsamic glaze can add a deeper flavor to the salad, as it can be customized to suit your taste by adjusting the sweetness or acidity levels.

Perfect Pairings for the Salad

This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, particularly grilled meats. It’s an excellent accompaniment to grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. The smokiness from the grilled peaches ties in beautifully with the charred flavors of grilled meats, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues. Additionally, this salad can be served with a chilled glass of white wine or a light rosé, both of which complement the fresh and bright flavors of the dish.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

The ingredients in this salad not only taste great but also offer several health benefits. Peaches are a rich source of vitamins A and C, both of which are important for maintaining healthy skin and boosting the immune system. Burrata provides a good amount of protein and calcium, essential for bone health. The mixed greens are packed with fiber, which supports digestion, and the olive oil contributes healthy fats that are good for the heart. This salad, therefore, makes for a delicious and nutritious meal option.

How to Make the Salad Ahead of Time

If you’re planning to serve this salad for a party or gathering, it can be prepared ahead of time with a few simple steps. Grill the peaches ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The burrata and greens can also be prepped and kept separately, and the dressing can be made in advance. Just assemble the salad right before serving to ensure that everything stays fresh and the burrata remains creamy.

Creative Variations to Try

While this grilled peach burrata salad is already delicious on its own, there are several ways to give it a creative twist. Try adding nuts such as toasted almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for an extra crunch. Adding a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries can give the salad a pop of color and a burst of additional sweetness. For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some crumbled bacon on top or even try using a flavored balsamic glaze like fig or raspberry.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect for serving at casual summer gatherings, barbecues, or even as a light dinner. For a more substantial meal, pair it with grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or steak. It can also be served with a side of crusty bread to soak up the balsamic glaze. For a vegetarian meal, consider adding some quinoa or farro to the salad for added protein and texture.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the salad components separately to maintain their freshness. Keep the mixed greens and burrata in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled peaches and balsamic glaze should be stored in separate containers as well. This will ensure that the salad doesn’t become soggy when you decide to enjoy the leftovers.

The Fun of Grilling Fruits

Grilling fruits like peaches can open up a whole new world of flavor combinations. The process of grilling softens the fruit and deepens its natural flavors, creating a slightly caramelized exterior. Grilled fruits can be added to savory dishes like salads or used in desserts. For example, grilled pineapple, plums, or figs can also work well in similar salad recipes.

Conclusion

Grilled peach burrata salad is an exceptional dish that brings together a variety of flavors and textures to create something truly special. From the sweetness of the grilled peaches to the creamy burrata and tangy balsamic glaze, every bite is a delightful experience. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual meal or a special occasion, this salad is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite summer dish.