This bright salad features juicy grilled peaches and fresh blueberries, all tossed together for a sweet and refreshing dish. It’s perfect for summer and so easy to make!
Trust me, those grilled peaches add a smoky twist you won’t forget! I love serving it with a drizzle of honey—it makes everything even better. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or plums can work as a tasty substitute. I find that different stone fruits add an exciting twist!
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries bring sweetness and color. If fresh ones are hard to find, frozen blueberries can be an option, but they might release more juice. Raspberries or blackberries could also be great alternatives.
Red Onion: The red onion adds a nice crunch and slight sharpness. If you prefer something milder, try green onions or shallots instead. They will provide a gentler flavor while still complementing the salad.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a tangy sweetness to the dressing. If you want a different flavor, consider apple cider vinegar or lemon juice as substitutes. Both will still give that bright flavor.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches might seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! The goal is to get those beautiful grill marks and enhance the sweetness of the fruit. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; this ensures a nice sear.
- Lightly brush the cut sides of the peaches with oil. This helps prevent sticking.
- Lay the peaches cut side down on the grill for 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear. Don’t be afraid to let them sit—they need that time to caramelize!
- Turn them once they’re nicely charred; then, finish cooking for another minute or so.
Grilled peaches are delicious on their own, so taste one before tossing it in the salad. I often do this just to make sure they’re perfect! Enjoy your grilling adventure!
Easy Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives or green onions, chopped
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10-15 minutes to grill. You’ll be able to enjoy this refreshing dish in approximately 30 minutes, including some time for the flavors to meld if you choose to chill it a bit.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. This is crucial for achieving those lovely grill marks on the peaches.
2. Prep the Fruits and Veggies:
Next, brush the peach halves and onion wedges lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This step helps prevent sticking and enhances flavor!
3. Grill the Peaches and Onions:
Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill along with the onion wedges. Grill the peaches for about 3-4 minutes until they have nice grill marks and soften slightly. Grill the onions for around 5 minutes until lightly charred and softened. Once done, remove them from the grill and let them cool a bit.
4. Cut the Grilled Peaches:
Now that the peaches are cool enough to handle, cut them into slices or chunks. You want bite-sized pieces for your salad!
5. Combine All Ingredients:
In a large bowl, throw in your grilled peaches, grilled onion pieces, and the fresh blueberries. They will come together beautifully!
6. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing will tie everything together.
7. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the fruit and onion mixture and gently toss to coat. Be careful not to mash the blueberries!
8. Add Fresh Herbs:
Stir in the chopped parsley and chives or green onions for a nice burst of freshness. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your salad is ready! You can serve it immediately or chill it briefly in the fridge to let the flavors meld. Enjoy this fresh, sweet, and lightly smoky salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t available, nectarines, plums, or even apricots can be great alternatives. Just keep in mind that grilling times may vary slightly based on the fruit you choose.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the blueberries may release some juices over time, but the salad will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can grill the peaches and onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a topping for tacos. You can also enjoy it as a light lunch on its own. It’s versatile and adds a refreshing touch to any meal!
