Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

This Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette combines fresh, sweet peaches with savory greens, creamy avocado, and a tangy, aromatic dressing. The grilled peaches add a smoky sweetness that balances beautifully with the freshness of the vegetables and the richness of the goat cheese. Topped off with a sprinkle of crunchy pistachios, this salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This grilled peach salad is a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The natural sweetness of the grilled peaches pairs perfectly with the fresh greens, while the creamy goat cheese and crunchy pistachios add rich textures. The homemade basil vinaigrette brings a refreshing, herbaceous note that ties the entire dish together. Plus, it’s easy to make, ready in just 21 minutes, and can be served as a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side at your next BBQ. This salad is both light and satisfying, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Grilled Peach Salad

• 2 ripe but firm peaches, sliced into 8 wedges

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 8 ounces leafy greens (a mix of arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce works well)

• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (about 1/4 of a large red onion)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced lengthwise

• 1 medium avocado, diced

• 4 ounces goat cheese (feta cheese can be used as an alternative)

• 1/3 cup roasted salted pistachios, roughly chopped

Basil Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup olive oil or avocado oil

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 2 1/2 tablespoons raw honey

• 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Grill the Peaches
   Add the sliced peaches to a medium bowl with olive oil and toss gently to coat. Heat the grill to medium-high heat (375-425°F). Place the peaches evenly on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they become soft with light grill marks. Once done, remove the peaches and set them aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Dressing
   Combine all of the dressing ingredients in a jar with a lid. Shake well to blend the ingredients. Alternatively, add them to a tall measuring glass and whisk thoroughly with a small whisk or fork. Set the dressing aside.

3. Assemble the Salad
   Add the leafy greens to a large serving bowl. Pour half of the dressing over the greens and toss well to coat. Next, layer the sliced red onion, chopped cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and grilled peaches on top of the greens. Crumble the goat cheese over the top and finish with the chopped pistachios.

4. Serve
   Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad, or serve the dressing on the side for individual servings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 6 minutes

• Total time: 21 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-free: Omit the goat cheese for a dairy-free version of this salad.

• Nuts: Swap the pistachios for other nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different flavor profile.

• Cheese alternatives: Use feta or blue cheese as a substitute for goat cheese for a different tangy twist.

• Grilled protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this salad a more filling main dish.

Storage/Reheating

If you plan to have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the dressing separately in a jar with a lid. When ready to eat, drizzle the dressing over the salad. If you want to keep the salad fresh, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to avoid wilting the greens.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

Frozen peaches are not ideal for grilling, as they release excess moisture when thawed. Fresh peaches provide the best texture and flavor.

Can I make the basil vinaigrette in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the fridge in a sealed jar, and shake well before using.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Add some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salad for a spicy kick.

What can I use instead of arugula in the greens mix?

You can substitute arugula with mixed greens, baby kale, or romaine lettuce for a milder flavor.

Can I substitute the avocado for something else?

If you prefer, you can substitute the avocado with cucumber or roasted sweet potatoes for a different texture.

Is this salad good for meal prepping?

Yes, the salad can be prepped in advance, but make sure to keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Can I add grilled chicken to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or any other protein can easily be added for a more filling meal.

What other fruits can I add to this salad?

Try adding grilled nectarines, strawberries, or even mango for a fun twist on the fruit element.

Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?

Yes, balsamic vinegar would give a slightly different, richer flavor but would work well in the vinaigrette.

Can I serve this salad as a side dish?

Yes, this salad works wonderfully as a refreshing side to any grilled meat or seafood.

Conclusion

This Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, all coming together in a fresh and satisfying dish. With the grilled peaches adding a smoky sweetness, the creamy avocado and goat cheese bringing richness, and the fresh greens providing a crisp texture, this salad is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, versatile for variations, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, it’s a delightful addition to any meal.