This refreshing salad combines sweet grilled peaches, peppery arugula, and creamy blue cheese. It’s a tasty mix that’s perfect for summertime picnics or a light dinner!
Honestly, who knew summer fruit could be so fancy? I love tossing it together and feeling like a chef. Plus, it’s a hit with friends—especially the blue cheese lovers!
Making this salad is quick and easy! Just grill the peaches, toss everything together, and voilà! You have a dish that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star here! Look for ones that are firm but slightly soft to the touch. If peaches are out of season, nectarines or plums make great substitutes, offering a similar sweetness.
Arugula: Arugula adds a peppery kick to the salad. If you can’t find arugula, baby spinach or mixed salad greens can work too, though they will change the taste a bit.
Blue Cheese: The strong flavor of blue cheese complements the sweetness of the peaches. If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, try feta or goat cheese for a milder option.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and richness. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or sliced almonds can be good alternatives. You could skip the nuts altogether if you prefer.
Balsamic Vinegar: This vinegar gives a sweet tang to the dressing. If you’re looking for a different flavor, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be good substitutes.
How Do I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches brings out their natural sweetness and adds delicious char marks. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by heating your grill to medium. This ensures the peaches cook evenly without burning.
- Lightly oil the grill grates to keep the peaches from sticking. A paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs works well.
- Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes, checking for nice grill marks. They should feel slightly tender but not mushy.
- Once grilled, let them cool a bit before slicing into wedges to add to your salad.
Taking the time to grill them just right can really enhance the flavor and texture in your salad!
How to Make Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 5-10 minutes for grilling the peaches. In total, you’re looking at about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick, fresh meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
First, preheat your grill to medium heat. This is important for getting those lovely grill marks on your peaches and to cook them just right. Use a brush or paper towel to lightly oil the grill grates, which will help prevent the peaches from sticking when you place them on the grill.
2. Grilling the Peaches:
Once your grill is hot, place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks and they start to soften a little. After grilling, take them off the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, slice them into wedges for the salad.
3. Combining the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the fresh arugula, thinly sliced red onion, and the grilled peach wedges. This combination will give your salad a lovely mix of flavors and textures!
4. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This simple dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully.
5. Dressing the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over your salad mix and toss gently to combine everything evenly. Be careful not to mash the peaches; we want them to stay nice and beautiful!
6. Adding the Cheese and Nuts:
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese and toasted pecans (if you’re using them) over the salad. Toss lightly again to distribute these delicious toppings throughout the salad.
7. Serving:
Your grilled peach and arugula salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it as a fresh and tasty starter or a lovely side dish. Dig in and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
While fresh peaches offer the best flavor and texture, you can use canned or frozen peaches in a pinch. If using canned, make sure to drain them well and pat dry to reduce excess moisture. For frozen, thaw them in the fridge overnight and drain any excess liquid before grilling or adding to the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can easily substitute it with goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile. Both will add a creamy texture and tangy taste that complements the salad well.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad can be tricky since arugula wilts quickly. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the greens until you’re ready to eat!
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Salad?
Absolutely! Other fruits like grilled nectarines, strawberries, or even slices of ripe avocado can enhance the flavor and add variety. Just make sure to adjust the dressing quantity to balance the added sweetness or creaminess!
