Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad

Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad: A Refreshing and Flavorful Summer Delight

  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

The Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad is a combination of fresh, vibrant ingredients, with the star of the dish being the grilled peaches. Grilled peaches bring out the natural sweetness of the fruit while giving it a smoky, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula. The addition of tangy goat cheese (or feta), candied pecans (or toasted almonds), and a simple, sweet balsamic vinaigrette dressing enhances the dish’s complexity, making it both light and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe peaches (halved, pitted)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling peaches)

  • 5 cups arugula (fresh)

  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta, optional)

  • 1/4 cup candied pecans (or toasted almonds, optional)

  • 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced)

  • 1 tablespoon honey (or balsamic glaze, for sweetness)

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the dressing)

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peaches

Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Halve the peaches and remove the pits. Brush each peach half with a little olive oil to prevent sticking on the grill. The olive oil also helps enhance the flavor as the peaches cook.

2. Grill the Peaches

Place the peach halves, cut-side down, on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the peaches start to soften. Flip the peaches over and grill for another 2-3 minutes until they are nicely charred. Remove them from the grill and set them aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, slice the peaches into wedges.

3. Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, toss the fresh arugula with the thinly sliced red onion. The peppery flavor of the arugula pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the grilled peaches, while the onion adds a subtle crunch and tang.

4. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined. The honey adds a touch of sweetness, while the balsamic vinegar gives the dressing a nice tangy kick.

5. Assemble the Salad

Once the grilled peaches have cooled, add the peach slices to the arugula and onion mixture in the large bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.

6. Top the Salad

To finish, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese (or feta) and candied pecans (or toasted almonds) on top of the salad. The cheese adds richness, while the nuts provide a delightful crunch. If you’re opting for a protein boost, this is the perfect time to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a scoop of quinoa.

7. Serve

Serve the salad immediately while the peaches are still slightly warm, allowing the flavors to meld together. Enjoy the combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors in each bite!

Notes

This Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad is a refreshing and elegant dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light, healthy meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or a sprinkle of feta for extra flavor!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://recipesmaria.com/grilled-peach-and-arugula-salad-recipe/