Grilled peach and burrata salad is a tantalizing blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that'll transport you straight to the heart of Italy. First, you'll grill juicy peaches to bring out their natural sugars and add a smoky edge. Then, you'll nestle the grilled peaches alongside creamy burrata cheese, creating a textural contrast that'll delight your senses. Topped with a balsamic glaze and fresh herbs, this dish is both visually stunning and bursting with Mediterranean flair. It's the perfect light and refreshing meal for summer – and if you keep reading, you'll discover even more delectable details about this culinary masterpiece.
Key Takeaways
Key points about Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad:
- The salad originates from Italian culinary traditions, combining sweet grilled peaches with creamy burrata cheese and showcasing seasonal Mediterranean produce.
- The dish balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, with grilled peaches adding smoky notes and burrata's creamy texture contrasting beautifully.
- The cooking process involves preheating the grill, brushing peach slices with oil, and grilling them for 2-3 minutes per side to achieve caramelization.
- The visually stunning presentation features grilled peach slices arranged with burrata cheese, drizzled with balsamic glaze, and garnished with fresh basil leaves and flaky sea salt.
- The salad is nutritious, rich in vitamins from the seasonal produce, while burrata adds protein and healthy fats, making it a balanced and refreshing summer dish.
History
Although the exact origins of the grilled peach and burrata salad are unclear, it's believed to have emerged from the culinary traditions of Italy, where the pairing of sweet, juicy peaches and creamy, rich burrata cheese has long been a beloved flavor combination.
The dish likely evolved as a way to showcase the beautiful, seasonal produce common in Mediterranean cuisines, with the grilled peaches adding a delightful smoky-sweet note and the burrata providing a luscious, indulgent contrast.
Over time, the salad has gained popularity worldwide, becoming a summertime favorite for its ability to capture the essence of the season in a single bite.
Whether served as a light starter or a main course, the grilled peach and burrata salad continues to delight and inspire home cooks and chefs alike, who find endless ways to riff on the classic combination and make it their own.
Recipe
Grilled peaches are a delightful summer treat, and when paired with creamy burrata cheese, they create a sophisticated and flavorful salad. The smoky, caramelized notes of the grilled peaches complement the rich, velvety texture of the burrata beautifully. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it an ideal choice for a light and refreshing meal.
The key to this salad is to grill the peaches just until they develop a slight char, which brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall dish. The burrata cheese, with its soft, mozzarella-like interior and creamy exterior, provides a luxurious contrast to the grilled peaches.
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 8 ounces burrata cheese
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the peach halves with a small amount of olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop grill marks and become slightly softened. Remove the grilled peaches from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, grilled peach halves, and burrata cheese. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar, remaining olive oil, and honey over the salad, and gently toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the grilled peach and burrata salad immediately, while the peaches are still warm and the burrata is at its creamiest. To complete this delicious summer dish, top the salad with flavorful grilled chicken for a satisfying and protein-packed meal. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches, creamy burrata, and savory chicken creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This salad is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering or a refreshing weeknight dinner.
For best results, use ripe, in-season peaches and high-quality burrata cheese. The contrasting textures and flavors of this dish make it a refreshing and impressive summer salad that's sure to delight your guests.
Cooking Steps
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Brush the peach slices lightly with olive oil, then grill them until they're nicely charred.
Arrange the grilled peaches and creamy burrata on a plate, and drizzle the whole thing with a tantalizing balsamic glaze.
Step 1. Preheat Grill to Medium-High Heat
First, make sure to preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. You'll want to get those grates nice and hot so the peaches can develop those irresistible grill marks.
It's important to let the grill fully preheat, which should take around 10-15 minutes. While you're waiting, go ahead and prep the rest of your ingredients so you're ready to go once the grill is hot.
Once the grill is preheated, you can start adding the peach slices. Be careful when placing them on the grates – you don't want them to stick or fall through.
Let the peaches sizzle and caramelize for 2-3 minutes per side, until they're tender and charred in all the right places. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't overcook.
Perfectly grilled peaches are the star of this salad, so you'll want to nail that step. With the grill ready to go, you can now move on to assembling the rest of the dish.
Step 2. Brush Peaches With Olive Oil
Before placing the peach slices on the hot grill grates, you'll want to brush them lightly with olive oil. This helps create a delicious caramelized crust on the outside of the peaches while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Take a pastry brush and gently coat the surface of each peach slice, making sure to get an even layer of oil. Don't be afraid to use a bit more oil if the peaches seem dry – you want them to have a nice sheen.
Once they're oiled up, you're ready to pop them onto the preheated grill. Be careful when handling the hot peach slices, and use tongs to turn them over for even cooking. The goal is to get those beautiful grill marks without overcooking the fruit.
Keep a close eye on them, and remove from heat as soon as they're softened and lightly charred around the edges. Now you've got perfectly grilled peach slices, ready to assemble into your tasty salad.
Step 3. Grill Peaches Until Lightly Charred
Once the grill is hot and ready, carefully place the oiled peach slices directly onto the grates.
Let them sizzle and char, turning them occasionally with tongs, until they're lightly golden and caramelized all over, about 2-3 minutes per side.
You'll know they're done when they're soft and tender, with those irresistible grill marks adding an extra layer of flavor.
Don't be tempted to move them too much – let them get that nice char before flipping.
The key is to get a quick sear on the peaches without overcooking them.
Once they're perfectly grilled, use the tongs to transfer the peach slices to a plate or platter, ready to assemble your salad.
The smoky, sweet peaches will be the star of the show, so be sure to savor every bite!
Step 4. Arrange Peaches and Burrata on Plate
Arrange the grilled peach slices in a single layer on a serving plate or platter.
Gently place the fresh burrata cheese in the center of the arrangement, allowing its soft, creamy texture to contrast with the charred, juicy peaches.
Drizzle the entire dish with a high-quality balsamic glaze, letting it seep between the peach slices and around the burrata.
Sprinkle a few fresh basil leaves over the top, their vibrant green color and aromatic flavor complementing the sweetness of the peaches and the richness of the cheese.
Finally, finish the salad with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt, which will enhance the natural flavors and bring everything together in a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Step back and admire your beautifully assembled grilled peach and burrata salad, ready to be enjoyed by family and friends.
Step 5. Drizzle With Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the arranged peach slices and burrata cheese. The sweet-tart glaze will complement the juicy peaches and creamy burrata perfectly.
Use a spoon to slowly drizzle the glaze in a zig-zag motion across the entire plate. Make sure to get a little bit of the glaze on each piece of fruit and cheese. The balsamic will soak into the peaches, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Plus, the glossy sheen of the glaze will make your salad look extra appetizing. Don't be afraid to use a generous amount – you want enough glaze to coat everything nicely. The balsamic will provide a nice balance to the richness of the burrata.
Take your time and enjoy the process of artfully drizzling the glaze over your creation.
Final Thoughts
With the flavors of juicy grilled peaches, creamy burrata, and a tangy vinaigrette, this Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad is the perfect summer dish.
You'll marvel at how the sweet, caramelized peaches pair so beautifully with the rich, luxurious burrata. The addition of fermented vegetables can add a probiotic boost and a delightful crunch to this salad, enhancing its nutritional profile. The balsamic glaze adds a delightful touch of acidity, elevating the entire salad.
This dish is a true celebration of seasonal produce. The grilling brings out the peaches' natural sweetness, while the burrata provides a creamy, indulgent contrast. The vinaigrette ties it all together, offering a refreshing balance of flavors.
It's a salad that's both visually stunning and incredibly delicious.
When you serve this Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad, your guests will be impressed by the thoughtful combination of ingredients and the attention to detail.
It's a dish that's sure to become a summer staple, perfect for al fresco dining or as a light and satisfying main course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Burrata?
Absolutely! You can use other types of cheese instead of burrata. Consider soft, creamy cheeses like fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or even goat cheese. They'll all pair beautifully with the grilled peaches and complement the salad's flavors.
Is It Possible to Grill the Peaches in Advance?
Yes, you can grill the peaches in advance. Just be sure to store them properly in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble your salad. This will save you time and ensure your peaches retain their flavor and texture.
What Type of Lettuce or Greens Work Best in This Salad?
For a refreshing salad, you can't go wrong with mixed greens like arugula, spinach, or spring mix. Their peppery or delicate flavors pair perfectly with the sweetness of the grilled peaches and creamy burrata cheese.
How Long Can the Salad Be Stored Before Serving?
You can store the salad for up to 2 days in the fridge, but it's best to dress it right before serving. This will prevent the greens from getting soggy and the flavors from melding too much.
Can I Substitute Balsamic Vinegar for the Honey-Lemon Dressing?
You can substitute balsamic vinegar for the honey-lemon dressing, but the flavors won't be the same. The balsamic will provide a more intense, tangy note compared to the honey-lemon's sweetness. Consider how it may impact the overall taste of the dish.
Ethan’s passion for farm-to-table cooking comes through in every dish he creates. He focuses on fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients, crafting seasonal recipes that celebrate the natural flavors of the earth. Based in California, Ethan’s modern approach to cooking is all about sustainability and simplicity.
