Grilled Peach Feta Salad Bowl

Juicy grilled peaches bring a burst of summer sweetness to this vibrant salad while creamy feta and crunchy walnuts create a perfect counterpoint in every bite The drizzle of balsamic glaze ties it all together with a tangy finish making this dish irresistibly fresh and easy enough for any weeknight or backyard gathering

The first time I made this salad was for a last minute picnic with friends We ended up eating every bite right out of the bowl on a picnic blanket and laughed about how it tasted like summer in every forkful

Ingredients

• Ripe peaches: choose peaches with a gentle give and a sweet aroma the grill caramelizes their natural sugars and makes them extra juicy
• Feta cheese: the tangy salty flavor is key for balance get the highest quality feta you can find in a block if possible and crumble it yourself for the freshest taste
• Arugula or mixed greens: the peppery greens are a crisp backdrop for the sweet peaches and creamy cheese always pick leaves that are bright green and fresh looking
• Walnuts: toasting these brings out their rich nutty taste always use unsalted so the salad is not overwhelmed
• Balsamic glaze: this thick syrupy reduction gives a glossy tangy finish pick a high quality bottle or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until syrupy
• Olive oil: helps keep peaches from sticking when grilling look for extra virgin with a fruity aroma
• Salt and pepper: elevate flavors with a quick sprinkle adjust to your own taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium heat this should take about ten minutes the grill needs to be hot enough to caramelize the peaches but not burn them

Season the Peaches:

Cut ripe peaches in half and carefully remove the pits brush the cut side of each peach half with olive oil and season with a light touch of salt and pepper this helps both with flavor and to prevent sticking

Grill the Peaches:

Place the prepared peach halves cut side down directly onto the preheated grill using tongs let them cook for about four to five minutes until you see clear grill marks and the fruit softens slightly resist moving them early for the best marks

Cool and Slice:

Use tongs to carefully lift peaches off the grill and set them aside to cool for a few minutes this makes them easier to slice and prevents wilting your greens

Build the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl combine your arugula or greens with crumbled feta and toasted walnuts slice the grilled peaches into wedges and add them on top distribute everything gently so you do not crush the feta or peaches

Dress and Serve:

Drizzle your balsamic glaze evenly over the whole salad toss very gently so the ingredients stay intact taste and add more salt or pepper if needed serve immediately for the freshest taste

Save This

My absolute favorite part is slicing into the still warm grilled peaches and watching the juice drip over the feta One summer my niece helped me toast the walnuts and insisted on taste testing every step so now this has become our family vacation salad

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day For the best results store the grilled peaches separately and add them to the greens just before serving so nothing gets soggy The walnuts will stay crisp if you do not mix them in until the end

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find peaches nectarines work beautifully or even grilled plums You can swap feta for soft goat cheese or leave out nuts for a nut free version Mixed greens or baby spinach also taste great and hold up well

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a light lunch side dish or alongside grilled chicken for a heartier meal I love how it pairs with a chilled glass of white wine for dinner on the patio It is always a hit at barbecues sitting prettily on a big platter

Cultural Context

Grilled peaches are a staple in American summer cookouts and salads like this are popular throughout the South They combine the best seasonal produce with simple dressings to let the natural flavors shine This dish celebrates the height of summer fruit

Save This

Common Questions

→ Can I use other greens besides arugula?

Yes, mixed salad greens or baby spinach are excellent alternatives for this dish if you prefer a milder flavor.

→ What is the best way to grill the peaches?

Brush halved peaches lightly with olive oil, season, then grill over medium heat until marks appear and fruit softens, about 4-5 minutes per side.

→ Can I substitute the feta cheese?

Goat cheese or fresh mozzarella can be used as alternatives to feta for a different creamy texture and taste.

→ How do I toast walnuts for the salad?

Place walnuts on a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and golden, about 3-4 minutes.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Grilled peaches, nuts, and cheese can be prepped ahead, but combine with greens and glaze just before serving for freshness.

→ What wine pairs well with this salad?

A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors and provides a refreshing balance to the dish.