Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: A Late Summer Delight
Introduction
As summer draws to a close, there’s no better way to celebrate the season’s bounty than with an easy and delicious Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad. This dish represents everything wonderful about late summer: ripe, juicy peaches at the peak of their sweetness, creamy burrata cheese, and fresh, peppery arugula. This combination of flavors and textures is elevated with the addition of fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a refreshing weeknight meal, this salad is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients
To create this stunning Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad, gather these fresh ingredients:
4 ripe peaches: The star of the dish, choose peaches that are firm yet give slightly when pressed—a sign they’re perfectly ripe.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to brush the peaches before grilling, adding flavor and ensuring they don’t stick.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the sweetness of the peaches and the creaminess of the burrata.
2 balls of fresh burrata cheese: This Italian cheese offers a rich, creamy experience—opt for highest quality burrata for the best results.
4 cups arugula: Known for its peppery taste, arugula provides the perfect contrasting base for the sweet peaches and rich burrata.
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves: Basil adds an aromatic and flavorful layer to the salad, complementing the peaches beautifully.
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts: These add a nutty crunch that enhances the texture and flavor complex.
Balsamic glaze for drizzling: A sweet and tangy finishing touch that ties all the flavors together.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
This recipe is as quick as it is delightful, with a total time of just 14 minutes:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes
Total Time: 14 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Creating this mouthwatering salad is straightforward, perfect for any level of culinary expertise:
1. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, prepping it to lend a smoky char to your peaches.
2. Halve the ripe peaches and remove the pits. Lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
3. Arrange the peaches on the grill, cut side down. Grill them for approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Look for grill marks, indicating they’re done, and make sure they’re a bit softened but not overly mushy. Remove them from the grill and set aside to cool slightly.
4. On a large serving platter, arrange the arugula and scatter fresh basil leaves over it. These greens form the fresh and flavorful bed for your salad.
5. Break the burrata balls into pieces and distribute them over the greens. The cheese should be creamy and luscious, melding with the arugula.
6. Once slightly cooled, place the grilled peaches on top of the salad, cut side up, allowing their vivid color to brighten the dish.
7. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts across the salad, ensuring each bite has a bit of their rich nutty flavor.
8. Before serving, finish the salad with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze. This will add a tangy sweetness that cuts through the creaminess and emphasizes the peaches’ natural sugars.
Notes
Selecting ripe peaches is key to the success of this dish. Opt for those that are fragrant and slightly soft, but not mushy. If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella could serve as a substitute, though it may not be as creamy. This salad is versatile and can be adapted with additional ingredients like sliced prosciutto for a savory twist or a scattering of cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
Cook Techniques-FAQ
Grilling fruit is an art and a technique worth mastering. It intensifies the natural sweetness and adds a caramelized flavor profile. For this salad, grilling the peaches enhances their sweetness and adds a desirable smoky component that pairs well with the creaminess of burrata. If you lack a grill, a grill pan or broiler can achieve similar results.
Have questions about substituting ingredients? Although fresh basil is ideal, a small amount of mint can be used for a different flavor. Crushing the pine nuts slightly releases more of their oils and flavors, providing more depth.
Conclusion
This Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad is a testament to summer’s finest offerings. The harmonious blend of sweet grilled peaches, creamy burrata, and refreshing arugula is a delight for the senses. The addition of basil leaves, crunchy pine nuts, and tangy balsamic glaze creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to leave your palate satisfied. Whether for a light meal or a starter to a larger feast, this salad is both simple to prepare and impressive in presentation and taste.
More Recipes Suggestions and Combination
If you’ve enjoyed the Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad, consider experimenting with similar combinations. A strawberry and feta salad with balsamic reduction provides a different take on sweet and savory, while a citrus and avocado salad with toasted almonds can offer a refreshing and tangy alternative. Pair the salad with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a complete dinner, or serve it alongside a chilled gazpacho for a cooling and vibrant summer spread. Let your creativity guide you, and enjoy the endless possibilities of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
