Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
This grilled peach salad with basil vinaigrette combines sweet grilled peaches, peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, avocado, and candied pecans for the ultimate summer salad. Finished with a fresh basil vinaigrette, it's perfect as a light meal or flavorful side dish for backyard cookouts and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Peach Salad
- 2 organic peaches sliced into 8 wedges
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 8 ounces leafy greens I prefer spinach and arugula
- 1/4 cup pickled red onions
- 1 medium organic avocado
- 1/2 cup candied pecans
Basil Vinaigrette
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp raw honey
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
- kosher salt to taste
- pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add the dressing ingredients to a food processor or high speed blender and blend until smooth. If you don't have either, finely chop the basil leaves and whisk everything together in a small bowl or mason jar. Set aside while you prepare the salad.1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup white wine vinegar, 2 tbsp raw honey, 1 tsp dijon mustard, 1/4 cup fresh basil, kosher salt, pepper
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium heat. Slice the peaches and then add them to a bowl. Drizzle about 1 tbsp of olive oil over the peaches with a couple of pinches of salt. Place the peaches directly on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the fruit becomes slightly golden brown. Transfer the grilled peaches to a baking sheet or plate and allow them to cool slightly.2 organic peaches, 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- In a large bowl or plate, combine the fresh greens, avocado, and pickled red onions. Arrange the grilled peaches on top and sprinkle with creamy goat cheese and candied pecans. Drizzle generously with basil vinaigrette and serve immediately.Alternatively, you can build individual salads on each plate.8 ounces leafy greens, 1/4 cup pickled red onions, 1 medium organic avocado, 1/2 cup candied pecans
Notes
- For the best results, choose ripe but firm peaches. Overripe peaches can become too soft and may fall apart on the grill.
- You can use either homemade or store-bought candied pecans in this recipe. If you'd like to make your own, try my Homemade Candied Pecans recipe for a delicious from-scratch option.
- Homemade or store-bought pickled red onions both work beautifully in this salad. My Pickled Red Onions recipe is quick and easy to make and adds a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet grilled peaches.
- No outdoor grill? A grill pan or griddle pan works just as well and will still give you beautiful grill marks.
- Fresh basil provides the best flavor for the basil vinaigrette. I don't recommend substituting dried basil.
- This salad is best served immediately after assembling. If making ahead, prepare the dressing and grill the peaches in advance, then assemble just before serving.
- Goat cheese can be substituted with feta cheese, burrata, or fresh mozzarella depending on your preference.
- Store leftover basil vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake or stir before serving.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!