Recipe Overview: Your New Summer Favorite
Why you’ll adore it: Prepare to fall in love with this exquisite grilled peach and burrata salad. It perfectly marries the sweetness of caramelized peaches with the creamy richness of burrata, bright cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all brought together with a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a dish that looks incredibly sophisticated, making it ideal for entertaining guests, yet it’s remarkably simple to assemble even on your busiest weeknights. This salad isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer flavors, offering a symphony of textures and tastes that will delight your palate and impress everyone at the table.
Preparation & Cook Time: A mere 26 minutes to culinary bliss.
Essential Equipment: A grill or a grill pan will suffice for achieving those perfect char marks.
Servings: Generously serves 6, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings.
Picture-Perfect Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: A Culinary Masterpiece Made Easy
Imagine a vibrant platter adorned with glistening, sweet grilled peaches, ruby-red, juicy cherry tomatoes, and luxurious, creamy burrata cheese. This isn’t just a dream; it’s the Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad, elevated with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, crunchy toasted almonds, and fragrant fresh basil. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, resulting in a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
This salad truly demands a grand reveal – a “Ta-da!” moment – because its beauty and deliciousness are simply unparalleled. You might find yourself scrolling through countless food magazines or websites, marveling at the impeccably styled dishes and thinking, “My creations could never look that good; those are the work of professional stylists and photographers.” But here’s the secret: you don’t need a team of culinary experts to craft a magazine-worthy grilled peach salad. This recipe empowers you to create something truly spectacular right in your own kitchen.
Effortlessly Photogenic: Put aside your worries about needing professional food styling skills. The inherent beauty of the ingredients makes this grilled peach salad naturally stunning. When you start with peak-season, luscious peaches and vibrant tomatoes, coupled with the pristine white elegance of burrata and the deep emerald hue of fresh basil, it’s virtually impossible to create anything less than a showstopper. The natural colors and textures do all the work, ensuring your salad is always ready for its close-up.
Summer on a Plate, Reimagined: Does this visually appealing salad taste as incredible as it looks? Absolutely! Every bite is a burst of summer, perfectly capturing the essence of the season. The warmth of the grilled peaches, the refreshing pop of tomatoes, the cool creaminess of burrata, and the aromatic herbs unite in a symphony of flavors that is truly unforgettable. Don’t let peach season pass you by without experiencing this culinary gem!
Versatile Serving Options: This extraordinary salad shines as a light main course, especially when accompanied by warm, crusty bread or perfectly toasted crostini. Its robust yet refreshing profile also makes it an ideal side dish, complementing grilled proteins like succulent chicken or flaky salmon beautifully. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or simply seeking a fresh, satisfying meal, this grilled peach and burrata salad offers unmatched versatility and charm.
Ingredient Spotlight: Crafting the Perfect Peach and Burrata Salad
The magic of this grilled peach salad lies in the quality and harmony of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering a balanced and unforgettable culinary experience. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why:
- Peaches: The Heart of the Salad: Grilling peaches transforms them, intensifying their natural sweetness and creating delightful caramelized edges. For the best results, select peaches that are ripe enough to be flavorful but still firm to the touch. This firmness ensures they hold up well on the grill without becoming mushy. Opt for in-season peaches for peak flavor. Importantly, choose freestone peaches, as their flesh easily separates from the pit, making preparation much simpler.
- Olive Oil: The Grilling Essential: A light coating of olive oil prevents the peach slices from sticking to the grill and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks. While other high smoke-point oils can be used, olive oil adds a subtle, complementary flavor. We’ve experimented with melted butter, but found it tends to smoke excessively and can impart an undesirable taste to the delicate peaches. Stick with good quality olive oil for optimal results.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Bursts of Freshness: Fresh, vibrant cherry tomatoes are indispensable to this salad. Their sweet and tangy juiciness provides a wonderful textural contrast and a pop of color against the creamy burrata and golden peaches. The gentle acidity of the tomatoes expertly cuts through the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the peaches, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. During the height of summer, consider using heirloom tomato slices or sun-ripened garden tomatoes for an even deeper flavor.
- Burrata: The Creamy Indulgence: Burrata, a luxurious Italian cheese, is an absolute dream paired with grilled peaches. Its outer shell of solid mozzarella conceals a soft, creamy interior of stracciatella and cream, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Burrata is increasingly available at most grocery stores. If you’re unable to find it, high-quality fresh mozzarella or even a rich ricotta can serve as delightful, though slightly different, substitutes.
- Almonds: The Crunchy Element: Sliced or slivered almonds contribute a delightful crunch and a nutty depth that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Toasting the almonds before adding them to the salad is a simple step that significantly enhances their flavor, bringing out their inherent warmth and aroma. It’s a small effort for a big flavor impact.
- Fresh Basil: The Aromatic Finisher: Roughly chopped fresh basil leaves are scattered over the finished salad, infusing it with their distinct sweet and peppery aroma. Basil provides an essential layer of freshness that brightens the entire dish. For a subtle twist, fresh thyme or mint can also be used, offering different aromatic profiles that pair equally well with peaches and burrata.
- Balsamic Glaze: The Unifying Drizzle: A generous drizzle of balsamic glaze is the secret ingredient that ties all the flavors together. Its concentrated sweet and tangy profile provides the perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the peaches and the creamy texture of the burrata, creating a cohesive and beautifully balanced salad. You can easily make your own homemade balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar, or conveniently purchase a ready-made bottle from your local grocery store.
- Sea Salt and Coarsely Ground Pepper: Seasoning to Perfection: A touch of sea salt enhances all the natural flavors, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle, earthy kick. These basic seasonings are vital for bringing out the best in each ingredient and ensuring the salad is seasoned to your personal preference.
Crafting Your Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this stunning salad is a straightforward process, ensuring a gourmet experience without the fuss. Follow these simple steps to assemble your masterpiece:
1. Prepare Toasted Almonds: Begin by placing your slivered or sliced almonds in a small, dry skillet. Heat the skillet over medium-low heat, toasting the almonds for approximately 4 to 5 minutes. It’s crucial to watch them continuously and stir frequently, as they can burn very quickly. As soon as they turn a beautiful golden brown and release a fragrant, nutty aroma, immediately transfer them from the hot pan to a plate to cool. This quick cooling prevents them from continuing to cook and ensures maximum crunch.
2. Season the Cherry Tomatoes: Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully halve all the cherry tomatoes. Place these halved tomatoes in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Season them lightly but evenly with a pinch of salt and a grind of fresh black pepper. Gently toss to coat, then set them aside, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Arrange the Burrata Cheese: Carefully drain the burrata cheese from its liquid packaging. Using paper towels, gently pat the burrata rounds dry to remove any excess moisture. Arrange the dried burrata artfully on your chosen large serving platter, ensuring there is a little space between each round. This provides room for the other ingredients and allows the burrata to be the central focal point of your salad.
4. Grill the Peaches to Perfection: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. While the grill is heating, prepare your peaches. Wash and thoroughly dry the peaches – there’s no need to peel them. With a sharp knife, carefully cut each peach in half, then gently twist the halves to separate them and remove the pit. Next, slice each peach half into three thick segments, yielding a total of six slices per peach. Avoid slicing them too thinly, as thicker slices are less prone to breaking apart on the grill and will caramelize more effectively.
In a large bowl, gently toss the peach slices with olive oil until each piece is lightly coated. Alternatively, you can use an olive oil spray to coat each side. Once the grill is hot, place the peach slices directly onto the grates. Grill for approximately three minutes on one side. Using tongs, carefully flip each slice and grill for another three minutes on the second side. For the most distinct and appealing grill marks, try to avoid moving the peaches once they are on the grill.
5. Assemble the Grand Salad: Once the peaches are grilled, arrange them evenly around the burrata on your serving platter. Next, spoon the seasoned cherry tomatoes into the spaces between the peaches and the burrata, filling any gaps to create a visually rich composition.
6. The Finishing Touches: Drizzle the assembled salad generously with balsamic glaze, ensuring it coats all the elements. Next, sprinkle the cooled, toasted almonds evenly over the entire salad. Take the fresh basil leaves, either roughly chop them or gently tear them by hand, and scatter them over the salad for an added burst of freshness and aroma. Finish with an additional sprinkle of sea salt and a few grinds of black pepper, adjusting to your taste preference. For an extra touch of richness and flavor, you may also drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
Serve this exquisite salad immediately to enjoy it at its peak freshness and flavor, preferably with your favorite crusty bread, perfectly toasted crostini, or a fresh baguette. Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that make this salad a true summer highlight.
Elevate Your Meal: Inspired Serving Suggestions
This versatile grilled peach and burrata salad is truly a chameleon on your menu. It’s robust enough to stand alone as a satisfying light meal, yet elegant enough to serve as a show-stopping side dish. Whether you choose to arrange its components on a grand serving platter for a stunning presentation or toss everything together in a large, shallow bowl for a more casual approach, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests and enhance any summer gathering.
As a Delightful Light Meal: For a fulfilling yet light lunch or dinner, serve this vibrant peach salad alongside a freshly baked crusty bread, a crisp baguette, or our recommended toasted crostini. We particularly love to spread the creamy burrata onto a piece of warm crostini, then top it with a slice of grilled peach and a cherry tomato half. This creates a perfect, harmonious bite that’s bursting with flavor and texture. It’s an ideal choice for a relaxed weekend brunch or a refreshing al fresco dining experience.
As an Impressive Side Dish: Given its hearty and flavorful nature, this salad makes an excellent companion to a variety of main courses. Pair it with a simple, lean protein for a balanced and complete meal. Consider serving it alongside perfectly grilled chicken, which benefits from the salad’s sweet and tangy notes. It also beautifully complements tender air fryer salmon or light and flaky tilapia. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the protein, creating a refreshing contrast that elevates the entire dining experience. It’s especially suited for backyard barbecues, garden parties, or any occasion where you want to add a touch of gourmet flair.
Get Creative: Exciting Recipe Variations
While the classic grilled peach and burrata salad is a masterpiece in itself, don’t hesitate to experiment with these delicious variations to suit your taste or what’s available:
- Nectarine Nirvana: If peaches aren’t in season or if you simply prefer them, nectarines make an excellent substitute. Their smooth skin means no peeling is required, and their firm, sweet flesh grills beautifully. Just ensure you choose ripe but still firm freestone nectarines for the best grilling experience.
- No-Grill Option for Ease: If grilling feels like too much of a hassle, or if you don’t have access to a grill, you can certainly make this salad with fresh, ungrilled peaches. Simply slice ripe peaches and arrange them. While the caramelization and smoky sweetness from grilling truly elevate the salad to another level, a fresh peach version is still incredibly delicious and refreshing. It’s a great option for a quicker preparation time without sacrificing much flavor.
- Canned Peaches in a Pinch: For a convenient alternative, especially outside of peach season, canned peaches can be used. Be sure to drain them thoroughly and pat them as dry as possible with paper towels before tossing them with olive oil and grilling as directed. While they won’t have the same firm texture as fresh peaches, grilling will still add a lovely warmth and subtle caramelization.
- Cheese Swaps: If burrata is unavailable or if you’re looking for a different flavor profile, several cheeses can step in. Fresh mozzarella, with its mild, milky flavor, is a fantastic option. For a tangier, saltier kick, try a good quality feta cheese, which pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of grilled peaches. High-quality ricotta can also offer a softer, creamier texture, although it’s less firm than burrata.
- Herb Alternatives: While fresh basil is traditional and delightful, consider experimenting with other herbs. Fresh mint offers a cool, bright contrast, while fresh thyme provides an earthy, aromatic depth that complements the peaches beautifully.
- Nutty Innovations: Instead of almonds, explore other toasted nuts like walnuts, pecans, pistachios, or pine nuts for varied textures and flavors. If you have nut allergies or simply prefer, the nuts can be omitted entirely without detracting from the salad’s core appeal.
- Add a Protein Boost: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled shrimp, shredded chicken, or thinly sliced prosciutto directly to the salad. These proteins integrate seamlessly and enhance the overall heartiness.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
For the freshest and most visually appealing experience, the grilled peach and burrata salad is best enjoyed immediately after assembly. However, if you wish to prepare components in advance, thoughtful planning can minimize last-minute stress.
Make Ahead Suggestions:
- Grill Peaches: You can grill the peaches up to a day in advance. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheating is not recommended as it can alter their texture; they are delicious served chilled or at room temperature.
- Toast Almonds: Toast the almonds several days ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.
- Prepare Tomatoes: Halve and season the cherry tomatoes a few hours before serving. Keep them covered in the refrigerator.
- Make Balsamic Glaze: If making homemade balsamic glaze, it can be prepared well in advance and stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Burrata: Drain and pat dry the burrata just before assembling the salad to preserve its delicate texture.
Storage Tips for Leftovers:
Should you have any delectable leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While the flavors will still be enjoyable, please note that the salad may lose some of its initial vibrant appearance and the peaches might soften further. For optimal enjoyment and visual appeal, we highly recommend assembling and serving this salad fresh.
Unlock Deliciousness with Our Free Meal Plan
Craving more incredible recipes like this one? Discover our weekly meal plans! This grilled peach and burrata salad is featured in Meal Plan #77. Each plan provides a wholesome, easy-to-follow recipe for every weekday, along with a convenient, categorized grocery list to simplify your shopping. We update our meal plans weekly, so you’ll always find fresh inspiration for your kitchen.
More Irresistible Summer Salads
Summer Pasta Salad
Mediterranean Green Bean Salad
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Gazpacho Salad
Grilled Peach Salad with Burrata
Ingredients
- ¼ cup slivered raw almonds
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (about 2 cups)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper, divided
- 8 ounces burrata, patted dry
- 3 peaches, ripe but still firm
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- ½ cup loosely packed fresh basil
Instructions
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In a small pan over medium heat, toast slivered raw almonds for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant. Transfer them immediately to a plate to cool completely and set aside.¼ cup slivered raw almonds
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Place halved cherry tomatoes in a large bowl and season with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper. Gently toss to coat and set aside.1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided, ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper, divided
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Drain the burrata cheese and gently pat it dry with paper towels. Arrange the burrata rounds on a large serving platter, leaving some space between each piece.8 ounces burrata, patted dry
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Wash and dry the 3 ripe but firm peaches. Cut each peach in half, twist to separate, and remove the pit. Slice each half into three thick segments (6 slices per peach). In a medium bowl, gently toss the peach slices with 2 tablespoons olive oil until coated. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill peaches for 3 minutes on one side, then use tongs to flip and grill for another 3 minutes on the other side, aiming for distinct grill marks. Transfer the grilled peaches to the platter, arranging them around the burrata.3 peaches, ripe but still firm, 2 tablespoons olive oil
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Arrange the seasoned cherry tomatoes around the peaches and burrata, filling in any gaps. Drizzle generously with 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze. Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the entire salad. Roughly chop or tear ½ cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the salad. Season with the remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, ½ cup loosely packed fresh basil
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Serve immediately with your favorite crusty bread, toasted crostini, or baguette. If desired, lightly drizzle the salad with additional extra virgin olive oil before serving for extra richness.
Notes
- Recipe Variations: Instead of almonds, try walnuts, pumpkin seeds, pine nuts or pistachios. Nuts can be omitted if you prefer. Substitute high-quality ricotta or fresh mozzarella if burrata is unavailable. Fresh mint or thyme could be substituted for the basil. Nectarines can be substituted for the peaches.
- This salad looks beautiful arranged on a platter but you can serve it in a large shallow bowl if you prefer.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.