Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. This fresh salad is packed with juicy peaches, vibrant blueberries, and creamy cheese. Perfect for a summer gathering or a light weeknight dinner, it’s quick and easy to throw together, making it a go-to recipe for busy families.

Why You Will Love This Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and fresh ingredients, it’s a fantastic option for any weeknight meal or a sunny picnic. The mix of sweet peaches and tart blueberries creates a lovely balance, while the creamy cheese adds a rich texture. It’s a family-friendly dish that appeals to both kids and adults, and it’s perfect for those warm evenings when you want something light but satisfying.

How to Make Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad

Making this salad is a breeze. You’ll grill the peaches to bring out their sweetness, then toss them with fresh greens, blueberries, and candied pecans. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey-lime vinaigrette ties all the flavors together. It’s simple enough for beginners, yet it feels special enough for a family gathering.

What You Need

2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
1 cup fresh blueberries
4 cups mixed greens
1/2 cup goat cheese or feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup candied pecans
Balsamic glaze or honey-lime vinaigrette
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step

Preheat the grill to medium heat.
Brush the peach halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Grill the peaches cut side down for about 4-5 minutes, or until caramelized.
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, grilled peaches, blueberries, and candied pecans.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey-lime vinaigrette.
Toss gently to combine, then top with crumbled goat cheese or feta.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it as a light lunch on its own. Add some crusty bread on the side for a bit of crunch. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or leisurely family dinners on the patio.

How to Store Grilled Peach Blueberry Salad

For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep the components separate if you’d like to prep it ahead of time. Unfortunately, freezing this salad isn’t recommended, as the texture of the greens will not hold up well after thawing. If reheating, enjoy the peaches warm, but no need to reheat the entire salad.

Recipe Tips

Choose peaches that are slightly firm but yield to gentle pressure for the best grilling texture.
If you can’t find candied pecans, regular pecans or walnuts can work too; just add a little honey or sugar to them before serving.
To keep the salad looking fresh, add the dressing just before serving.
For more flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs like basil or mint.
Avoid overgrilling the peaches; you want them warm and caramelized but not mushy.

Variations & Swaps

Swap goat cheese for feta if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, making it a heartier meal.
Use spinach or arugula instead of mixed greens for a peppery taste.
For a little zest, sprinkle in some lime juice along with your vinaigrette.
Try using strawberries or raspberries in place of blueberries for a berry medley.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peaches and dressing in advance. Store the grilled peaches separately from the greens and other toppings. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not advisable to freeze this salad because the greens and fruits won’t maintain their texture after thawing. However, you can freeze the grilled peaches and use them in smoothies later.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?
Feta cheese is a great alternative if you prefer a saltier taste. You could also use a creamy mozzarella for a milder flavor that blends well.

What dressing works best for this salad?
Balsamic glaze adds a lovely sweetness to the salad, but honey-lime vinaigrette is also a fabulous choice for a lighter, zesty option.

What mistakes should I avoid?
Be careful not to overcook the peaches on the grill. They should be caramelized, not mushy. Also, add the dressing just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.