This salad is a tasty mix of sweet grilled peaches, peppery arugula, and tangy blue cheese. It’s perfect for warm days and brings a burst of flavor to your plate!
Honestly, who knew fruit could play so nicely with cheese? Toss in some nuts for crunch, and you’ve got a salad that feels fancy but is actually super easy to make. Yum!
I love serving this salad at summer barbecues. It’s quick to whip up, and everyone always asks for the recipe. Plus, it makes me look like a kitchen wizard—just don’t tell them my secret! 🤫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness and juiciness to the salad. If you’re short on peaches, try nectarines or even grilled plums for a similar taste. Choose fruits that are slightly soft for the best flavor.
Arugula: This leafy green has a peppery flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the peaches. If you’re not a fan, spinach or mixed greens can also work, but they have a milder taste.
Blue Cheese: The crumbled blue cheese adds creaminess and tang. If blue cheese isn’t your thing, goat cheese or feta can be a nice substitute. Both options lend a different yet delicious flavor to the salad.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a bite to balance the salad. For a milder taste, you can use green onions or shallots instead.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and nuttiness. Walnuts or almonds can be good substitutes; just be sure to toast them too for enhanced flavor.
How Can I Get Perfect Grill Marks on Peaches?
Grilling peaches not only adds flavor but also creates beautiful grill marks that look great on your salad. Here are some tips for perfect grilled peaches:
- Make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear.
- Brush the peach halves lightly with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and enhances browning.
- Place them cut side down on the grill. Avoid moving them around; let them sit for about 4-5 minutes.
- Check for visible grill marks before flipping or removing them from the grill. If they’re sticking, let them cook a little longer.
Following these steps will give you peaches that not only taste great but also wow your guests!
How to Make Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Blue Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and grill the peaches. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal in no time—perfect for a warm day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill and Peaches:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it heats up, take your peach halves and brush them lightly with olive oil. This helps them grill beautifully!
2. Grill the Peaches:
Once the grill is ready, place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, or until you see those lovely grill marks and the peaches are looking slightly softened. This will enhance their sweetness and flavor!
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
When the peaches are done, carefully remove them from the grill and let them cool for a minute. Slice the peaches into wedges and set them aside. In a large bowl, toss together the arugula, sliced peaches, red onion, and toasted pecans. It’s going to look vibrant and delicious!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a wonderful acidity that balances out the sweetness of the peaches.
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over your salad mix and toss everything gently to combine. Try not to be too rough; you want to keep the peaches and pecans in good shape!
6. Finish it Off:
Top your beautiful salad with crumbled blue cheese for that extra flavor kick. Serve it immediately and enjoy the mix of flavors! It’s fresh, sweet, and oh-so-delicious!
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
While fresh peaches are best for grilling, you can use canned or frozen peaches in a pinch. If using canned, make sure to drain them well. For frozen, thaw them in the fridge overnight and pat dry to avoid excess moisture. Keep in mind that they may not hold their shape as well as fresh peaches on the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can replace it with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Both options will add a creamy, tangy element to your salad. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try crumbled avocado or nuts for creaminess!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To prevent the arugula from wilting, keep the dressing on the side until you’re ready to eat!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the grilled peaches and dressing ahead of time. Store them separately and combine just before serving to keep the arugula fresh and crunchy. Grilled peaches can be kept in the fridge for about 3 days, but they taste best the day they’re made!
