This Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad is a fun mix of sweet, tangy, and crunchy! Juicy peaches are grilled to perfection, giving them a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh arugula and creamy blue cheese.
I’m a big fan of this salad because it’s so easy to make and looks lovely on the table. Just toss everything together and enjoy the summer vibes while you munch away! 🍑🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness and flavor. If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use canned or frozen peaches. Just be sure to drain them well and slice them before grilling!
Arugula: This peppery green is a salad favorite. If you’d like a milder flavor, try spinach or mixed greens instead. They work well in this salad too!
Blue Cheese: If blue cheese isn’t your thing, goat cheese or feta make great substitutes. They provide a nice creaminess and tang to the salad, too.
Pecans: Peanuts or walnuts can substitute for pecans if you’re looking for a different crunch. Or, leave nuts out entirely for a nut-free version!
Balsamic Vinegar: If you’re out of balsamic, red wine vinegar is a good alternative. It won’t be as sweet, but it will still give the dressing some zing.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Making a Mess?
Grilling peaches can be tricky, but it’s pretty simple when you know a few tips! First, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This will help create those lovely grill marks and caramelization.
- Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil before grilling. This helps prevent sticking.
- Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill for about 3-4 minutes. Look for those beautiful grill marks!
- After grilling, let them cool slightly before slicing. This helps keep them intact and makes them easier to handle.
Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups arugula, washed and dried
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional, for crunch)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Honey (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh and flavorful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 5 minutes grilling the peaches and about 10 minutes assembling the salad and making the dressing. It’s a quick and delightful dish to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grilling the Peaches:
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, brush the cut sides of the peach halves with a little olive oil. This will help them from sticking to the grill. Once the grill is hot, place the peaches cut-side down directly on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the peaches have softened a bit. When they’re done, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly.
2. Preparing the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss together the washed arugula, sliced red onion, and chopped pecans (if you’re using them). These ingredients will give your salad a refreshing crunch and flavor!
3. Adding the Grilled Peaches:
Now, slice the grilled peaches into wedges and gently add them to your arugula salad. Next, sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top, making it extra yummy.
4. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This will be your tasty dressing! Drizzle it over the salad and give everything a gentle toss to combine all the flavors together.
5. Finishing Touches:
If you like a little sweetness, feel free to drizzle some honey over the salad before serving. Now your salad is ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors of grilled peaches, arugula, and blue cheese all in one delightful bite!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with nectarines, plums, or even grilled pineapple for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time as needed, since different fruits have varying softness.
How Do I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the blue cheese and use a plant-based alternative or add extra nuts for creaminess. You can also enhance the salad with avocado for added richness!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the arugula separate from the dressing, peaches, and other toppings in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will be best enjoyed within a day, but the components can last up to 3 days. Toss everything together just before serving to keep it fresh!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep some elements ahead of time! Grill the peaches and make the dressing up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the salad just before serving to keep the arugula crisp.
