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This Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that combines sweet, smoky grilled peaches with creamy burrata and crisp, fresh greens.
It’s a celebration of seasonal summer produce, beautifully elevated with balsamic glaze and toasted walnuts.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is the balance of textures—juicy fruit, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts—and flavors that range from sweet and tangy to rich and earthy.
Health-wise, it’s loaded with fiber from leafy greens and peaches, and provides plant-based protein and healthy fats from walnuts and burrata.
With only 225 calories per serving and minimal saturated fat, it’s a smart and satisfying choice for light lunches or elegant starters.
The quick 20-minute prep makes it ideal for busy weekdays, while its gourmet feel also suits casual entertaining.
Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and naturally gluten-free (if served without bread), making it versatile and inclusive.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan
For Perfect Grill Marks Indoors
This heavy-duty pan mimics BBQ results without firing up the grill. It caramelizes peaches evenly, creating that irresistible charred flavor. A kitchen essential for grilling veggies, fruit, or proteins all year round.
OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner
Keep Greens Fresh and Crisp
Washing and drying salad leaves is a breeze with this spinner. It ensures your greens are perfectly dry, which helps dressing stick better and avoids soggy salads.
Wüsthof Classic Chef’s Knife
Precision Slicing for Every Ingredient
From halving peaches to finely slicing red onions, this razor-sharp chef’s knife delivers control and clean cuts. An indispensable tool for everyday prep.
Pyrex 2-Cup Glass Measuring Cup
Reliable Measurements for Dressings and Drizzles
Ideal for measuring olive oil, balsamic glaze, or small batches of dressing. Its heat-resistant glass makes it microwave-safe and easy to clean.
Cuisinart Digital Kitchen Scale
Accuracy for Consistent Results
Especially useful when working with metric recipes. Ensures you get the right balance of ingredients for the best flavor and nutrition.
Grilled Peach Burrata Salad
Equipment
- 1 Grill pan or BBQ grill
- 1 Salad bowl or large platter
- 1 Sharp chef’s knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Small spoon
- 1 Measuring spoons
- 1 Digital kitchen scale (optional)
- 1 Tongs or spatula (for grilling peaches)
- 1 Serving spoon or salad tongs
Ingredients
- 3 –4 ripe peaches halved, pitted, and sliced into thick wedges (use 3 if large, 4 if smaller)
- 1 ball 150g of fresh burrata cheese
- 3 cups 100g of mixed baby salad greens (such as lamb’s lettuce, pea shoots, and baby beet leaves)
- 1½ cups 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ medium red onion very thinly sliced
- ¼ cup 25g toasted walnut halves
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil plus more for grilling
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Small handful of fresh basil leaves
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Ciabatta bread sliced (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: Place the mixed greens into a large serving bowl or arrange them on a wide platter. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onion over the greens. Lightly season with sea salt and gently toss everything together to begin building the flavor.
- Grill the Peach Wedges: Lightly brush a grill pan or outdoor BBQ grill with olive oil and preheat over medium-high heat. Place the peach wedges on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop char marks and soften slightly. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Toast the Bread (Optional): If you're including ciabatta, brush the slices with olive oil and grill them on the same pan or grill until golden brown on both sides. This creates a crispy, rustic side to serve with the salad.
- Assemble the Salad Layers: Sprinkle the toasted walnut halves over the greens and vegetables. Gently nestle the grilled peaches throughout the salad. Place the whole burrata ball in the center, then carefully tear it open with clean hands. Use a small spoon to spread the creamy interior around the salad for even flavor.
- Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle the salad with the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter over the top. Finish with a few grinds of black pepper for a peppery bite. Serve immediately with toasted ciabatta on the side, if desired.
Notes
- Peach Selection: Use firm-ripe peaches to hold up during grilling without turning mushy. Freestone peaches are easiest to slice and pit.
- Burrata Tips: Burrata adds a luxurious creaminess, but if unavailable, fresh mozzarella or even ricotta will work as a substitute.
- Grilling Alternative: No grill? A stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet will create the same charred effect indoors.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this into a main dish, serve with grilled chicken or a scoop of quinoa for extra protein and fiber.
- Meal Prep Idea: Grill the peaches and toast the walnuts in advance. Assemble just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.
Chef’s Secrets for Salad Success
The secret to making this salad unforgettable lies in balancing temperature, texture, and freshness.
Lightly grilling the peaches caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing their sweetness and giving them a slight smoky edge—perfectly contrasting with the cool, creamy burrata.
For best results, use peaches that are ripe but still firm to the touch; they hold their shape on the grill and won’t become mushy.
Always toast the walnuts ahead of time to unlock their deep nutty flavor—just a few minutes in a dry skillet does the trick.
When building the salad, layer the ingredients thoughtfully, and tear the burrata open just before serving to showcase its rich center.
Using high-quality olive oil and a thick, syrupy balsamic glaze elevates every bite.
Lastly, sprinkle the salt and pepper over the salad after assembly, not during, to maintain freshness and presentation.
Creative and Flavorful Serving Suggestions
This salad shines as a light lunch, elegant starter, or a show-stopping side at summer gatherings.
Pair it with grilled proteins like lemon-herb chicken, seared salmon, or even prosciutto for a heartier dish.
It also works beautifully as part of a brunch spread alongside crusty artisan bread, herbed couscous, or a chilled soup.
For wine lovers, serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Rosé to complement the fruity peaches and creamy burrata.
Want to keep things meatless? Add grilled tofu or chickpeas for extra protein.
When serving to guests, consider plating the salad individually for an elevated restaurant-style experience.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
Since this salad relies on fresh produce and delicate cheese, it’s best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
However, you can prep many elements ahead. Grilled peaches and toasted walnuts can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
The salad greens and tomatoes should be kept dry and refrigerated until assembly—using a salad spinner keeps them fresh and crisp.
Avoid combining the ingredients until just before serving, especially the burrata, which loses its luxurious texture if stored once opened.
Leftover assembled salad isn’t ideal for storage, but if needed, place it in a sealed container and enjoy within 24 hours.
Add a fresh drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze to revive the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
1. Can I use canned or frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Fresh peaches are best for grilling, as they hold their shape and caramelize properly. Canned or frozen peaches tend to be too soft and may fall apart or become mushy during cooking.
2. What can I substitute for burrata cheese?
If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or a generous spoonful of creamy ricotta works well. These options still offer that rich, mild flavor and smooth texture.
3. Is there a nut-free alternative to walnuts?
Absolutely! For a nut-free version, try pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or sunflower seeds. They add crunch without allergens and still toast up nicely.
4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep individual components in advance—grill the peaches, toast the nuts, slice the veggies—but for best results, assemble everything right before serving to preserve texture and freshness.
5. How can I make this salad more filling?
To turn it into a complete meal, top with grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or cooked quinoa. These protein boosts make it satisfying enough for lunch or dinner.
This recipe is inspired by thelastfoodblog and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.