Grilled Peach Salad with Feta

Sweet grilled peaches meet salty feta and a drizzle of balsamic glaze in this bright and simple salad I always reach for on hot days when dinner needs to be light satisfying and a bit special The subtle char on fruit pairs perfectly with creamy cheese crunchy nuts and vibrant greens

Last summer I made this for a backyard dinner with friends and everyone loved how the warm peaches melted a little into the feta Now whenever peaches hit the market I am asked when I am making this again

Ingredients

• Ripe peaches: Lend natural sweetness and grill beautifully Choose fruit that yields slightly to gentle pressure for best flavor
• Feta cheese: Brings a creamy salty note I recommend using a block of feta and crumbling it just before adding for fresher taste
• Arugula or mixed greens: Give the salad a peppery and refreshing bite Look for crisp vibrant leaves
• Walnuts: Add crunch and earthy flavor Toast them lightly in a dry pan until golden and fragrant for best results
• Balsamic glaze: Offers tangy sweetness A thicker glaze clings better to the salad Homemade or store bought work well
• Olive oil: Enhances flavor and helps prevent peaches from sticking to the grill Use a good quality extra virgin oil if possible
• Salt and pepper: Brighten and balance the flavors Use flaky sea salt for texture if available

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat the Grill:

Set your grill to medium heat and let it warm fully A clean hot grill keeps the peaches from sticking

Prepare Peaches:

Brush each peach half generously with olive oil making sure the cut side is fully coated Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor

Grill Peaches:

Place peaches cut side down directly on the grill Leave them undisturbed for four or five minutes This develops caramelized grill marks and softens the fruit Carefully turn them just to check for color The peaches should release easily when ready

Cool and Slice:

Transfer the grilled peaches to a plate and let them cool just enough to handle Slice each half into thick wedges The grilling juices are delicious so pour any that collect onto the salad

Assemble Salad:

In a large mixing bowl combine the greens grilled peach wedges toasted walnuts and crumbled feta Toss gently by hand or with tongs so ingredients stay intact

Dress and Serve:

Drizzle everything with balsamic glaze followed by an extra swirl of olive oil if desired Toss again just before serving and finish with a touch more salt and pepper Taste and adjust seasoning as needed

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Feta is probably my favorite part of this salad Sometimes I splurge on a really creamy barrel aged feta and the contrast with those sweet smoky peaches is unforgettable It once sparked such a happy debate at our table over the best cheese that we still talk about it every summer

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed right after assembling If you must make it ahead grill peaches and toast walnuts in advance but combine everything and add dressing just before eating Store leftover components separately in airtight containers Peaches and greens soften quickly so leftovers are best the same day

Ingredient Substitutions

No peaches Try nectarines for a similar flavor profile Goat cheese can replace feta for a milder tang If walnuts are not an option substitute pecans or sliced almonds Both arugula and mixed greens work so use whichever is freshest at your market

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal It also makes a stunning starter for summer dinner parties Serve on a big platter sprinkled with fresh herbs like basil or mint for color and extra aroma

A Bit of Context

Fruit and cheese salads are beloved around the Mediterranean The sweet and salty combo never goes out of style Grilled peaches nod to classic southern American traditions while the balsamic glaze brings a bit of Italian flair I tried the recipe for the first time after tasting something similar at a friend’s potluck and it has now become our family’s go to summer dish

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute another cheese for feta?

Yes, goat cheese or ricotta salata works well for a similar creamy, tangy note.

→ How do I know when the peaches are perfectly grilled?

They should have nice grill marks and feel slightly softened, usually after 4-5 minutes on medium heat.

→ Can I use spinach instead of arugula?

Absolutely. Spinach or mixed greens are great alternatives that complement the other ingredients.

→ Is it possible to prepare this salad in advance?

You can grill the peaches and toast the nuts ahead of time, but toss everything together just before serving.

→ What wines pair nicely with this salad?

A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, beautifully balances the flavors.

→ How can I make this nut-free?

Omit the walnuts or replace them with crunchy seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a nut-free option.