Looking for a light, refreshing salad that screams summer? This Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is a sweet, savory, and aromatic showstopper that makes the most of seasonal produce. Juicy grilled peaches pair beautifully with creamy cheese, crisp greens, crunchy nuts, and a vibrant homemade basil vinaigrette.
Perfect as a starter, a side, or a light main course, this salad is elegant enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for a quick weeknight meal. It’s the ultimate blend of sweet, smoky, herbaceous, and tangy.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- ✅ Summer in a bowl – Fresh peaches + basil = peak flavor
- ✅ Easy to make, hard to forget – Just grill, toss, and drizzle
- ✅ Customizable – Works with goat cheese, feta, or burrata
- ✅ Healthy and gluten-free
- ✅ Impressive yet low-effort
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2–3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 4 cups arugula or mixed greens
- ¼ cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled
- ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: Prosciutto, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes
For the Basil Vinaigrette:
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or white wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for balance)
Instructions
1. Grill the Peaches
Brush peach halves lightly with olive oil. Grill cut-side down over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until grill marks appear and peaches are softened but still firm. Let cool slightly and slice.
2. Make the Basil Vinaigrette
In a blender or food processor, combine basil, garlic, lemon juice, mustard, and sweetener (if using). Blend while slowly streaming in olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl or platter, layer your greens, grilled peach slices, red onions, cheese, and toasted nuts.
4. Drizzle and Serve
Generously drizzle with the basil vinaigrette just before serving. Garnish with more fresh basil or cracked pepper if desired.
Tips for Best Results
- 🍑 Use slightly firm peaches so they hold up well to grilling
- 🌿 Fresh basil is key for a vibrant, aromatic vinaigrette
- 🔥 Don’t over-grill – you want caramelization, not mush
- 🧀 Try with burrata for an indulgent twist
Flavor Variations
- Add protein: Grilled chicken or shrimp make this a full meal
- Use nectarines: A great alternative if peaches aren’t available
- Add grains: Farro or quinoa add extra texture and fiber
- Vegan version: Omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative
When to Serve Grilled Peach Salad
This salad is perfect for:
- 🌞 Summer barbecues
- 🍷 Wine nights and outdoor dinners
- 🍽️ Fancy brunches or potlucks
- 💚 Healthy weekday meals
Final Thoughts
Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is the kind of dish that turns heads and satisfies cravings. It’s fresh, healthy, and packed with contrasting textures and flavors—sweet, creamy, nutty, and herbaceous. Whether you’re serving it as a side or the main event, it’s bound to become a favorite in your summer salad lineup.