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Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: A Summer Delight

Hey there, fellow food lovers! 🌞 If there’s one dish that screams summer to me more than anything else, it’s a Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad. Imagine juicy, caramelized peaches kissed by the grill, drizzled with olive oil and aged balsamic, nestled beside creamy, dreamy burrata cheese. This dish is not just a salad; it’s an experience, a burst of summer on your plate that transports you straight to a sunny picnic or a cozy backyard barbecue.

Not only is this salad visually stunning, but it also balances sweet, savory, and creamy flavors in every single bite. I mean, who could resist that combination? Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a light lunch, an impressive starter for dinner guests, or even a potluck favorite.

As I reminisce about my childhood summers spent in my grandma’s garden—a vibrant, flourishing paradise—I can vividly remember biting into ripe, sun-warmed peaches, the juices running down my chin. Those were the days! In this blog post, I’m excited to share this delightful recipe with you, complete with tips and tricks to elevate your cooking game.

So, grab your aprons and let’s dive into creating a refreshing Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Personal Story

Growing up, my summers were spent in a small town where my grandma’s garden was like the Garden of Eden. It was there that I first discovered the magic of fresh produce. With her crooked sun hats and that infectious laugh, we would pluck juicy peaches directly off the trees, using them to create simple but memorable dishes. A particular day stands out—grandma grilled peaches with a drizzle of honey, and we topped it with a dollop of rich cream. The flavor explosion was indescribable, and I couldn’t get enough.

Years later, I found myself playing with that beautiful memory in the kitchen. I added burrata to the mix, combining sweetness with creaminess in a way that honored those summer afternoons while offering a modern twist. Each bite of this salad brings me back to those carefree days and inspires me to share similar moments with friends and fellow foodies.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad, along with some helpful insights:

Fresh Peaches (4, halved and pitted)
Juicy peaches are the star of this dish! Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, feel free to substitute with nectarines or even plums for that similar sweetness.
Burrata Cheese (8 oz)
Burrata is a creamy delight that elevates this salad to another level. If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella works well as a substitute, although it won’t have that rich cream center that burrata does.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
A good-quality olive oil is key for drizzling and grilling. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Don’t have olive oil? Avocado oil is a great substitute and adds a unique taste.
Balsamic Vinegar (1 tablespoon)
Aged balsamic vinegar adds a sweet tartness that ties everything together. If you want to keep things lighter, take a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Fresh Basil Leaves (1/4 cup, torn)
Fresh basil adds an aromatic depth to the dish. No basil? Try mint for a refreshing twist!
Salt and Pepper (to taste)
A pinch of salt and a dash of fresh black pepper enhance the flavors of the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s cook! Here’s how to put your beautiful Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad together:

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals turn ash-gray for an even heat. Grilling brings out the natural sugars in the peaches and gives them that gorgeous char.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

While the grill heats up, slice the peaches in half and remove the pits. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the cut sides and sprinkle a pinch of salt. This will help to enhance their sweetness and prevent sticking to the grill.

Step 3: Grill the Peaches

Place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see beautiful grill marks and they start to soften. Flip them over carefully and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes. You want them just tender enough to hold their shape but soft enough to bite into.

Chef Hack: If you want an extra hit of flavor, marinate the peaches for about 30 minutes before grilling in a mix of the olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Once the peaches are done, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly. On a large serving platter or individual plates, lay down the grilled peach halves. Tear the burrata cheese and place it generously on top of the peaches, creating a beautiful contrast.

Step 5: Drizzle and Garnish

Now, drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Scatter the torn basil leaves on top and finish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper.

Chef Tip: Using a high-quality balsamic will really make your salad sing!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad warm or at room temperature. The delightful combination of warm peaches and cool burrata will create delicious harmony in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Consider pairing it with a crusty loaf of artisan bread—perfect for soaking up those rich flavors. If you’re hosting a dinner party, serve it as an elegant appetizer before a grilled protein like chicken or steak. Alternatively, make it a light lunch by tossing in some cooked quinoa for added protein, satisfying your midday hunger while still keeping things fresh and light.

For an intimate evening, plate it up on wooden boards with small bowls of additional balsamic and olive oil for drizzling—you know, to impress your dinner guests!

Recipe Variations

Love this salad but looking for a twist? Here are some delicious variations to keep things fresh:

Savory Touch: Add crispy pancetta or prosciutto for a savory note that pairs wonderfully with the sweet peaches and creamy burrata.
Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted walnuts or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture and earthy depth.
Berries Galore: Mix in a handful of fresh arugula or spinach and top with fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries) for an added burst of flavor and color.
Vegan Option: Swap burrata for a vegan cheese or a dollop of avocado for a creamy texture that remains plant-based while still delightful.
Grill All the Things: Get adventurous—toss some zucchini or asparagus on the grill alongside your peaches for a complete grilled veggie experience.

Chef’s Notes

This Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad is one of those dishes that has evolved over the years. What started as simple grilled peaches and whipped cream has blossomed into a true culinary creation. I love experimenting with my ingredients depending on what’s fresh and in-season. Some days, I might switch it up with a hint of chili flake for heat, while other days, I’ll keep it sweet and simple.

The beauty of this salad is that it’s so adaptable. Just like those summer weekends spent with my grandma, it’s all about enjoying the moment and savoring fresh flavors. Plus, it always amazes me how the simplest ingredients can come together to create something so memorable.

FAQs and Troubleshooting

What if my peaches are hard?
If the peaches are too firm, consider grilling them a bit longer or even leaving them on the counter for a day to ripen.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Feel free to grill the peaches a few hours ahead of serving. Just assemble right before eating for the freshest taste. Burrata should be added lastly to keep it creamy.
What to do if burrata is unavailable?
If you can’t find burrata, don’t worry! Fresh mozzarella or goat cheese can be delicious substitutes, although they’ll give a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, but keep in mind the peaches may lose their texture and the burrata’s creaminess might change too. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but I won’t judge if you eat it on your third-day leftovers binge!

Nutritional Info

Depending on your portion sizes and specific ingredients, this salad offers a delightful combination of nutrients. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

Calories: ~350
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fats: 30g (mostly healthy unsaturated fats from the olive oil and burrata)
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g

This dish is not only delicious but provides healthy fats, natural sugars from the fruit, and a balance of flavor that won’t leave you feeling guilty!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re enjoying this Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad at a picnic, a family dinner, or just spoiling yourself after a long day, I hope it becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Cooking should be fun, indulgent, and mostly filled with love—just like grandma taught me.

I’d love to hear how your version turns out or any special twists you decide to try! Remember, every recipe has its own journey in your kitchen, just like every meal shared brings another cherished memory. So, get out there and grill those peaches! Bon appétit!

— Chef Emily 🍑✨