Grilled Peach, Pistachio, and Burrata Salad

The combination of grilled peaches, creamy burrata, and crunchy pistachios in this salad is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and texture. The juicy grilled peaches bring a smoky sweetness, the pistachios add a satisfying crunch, and the burrata delivers that rich, creamy contrast. Drizzled with a little balsamic glaze and served with fresh greens, this salad is a summer delight that pairs perfectly with any light meal.

Behind the Recipe

This Grilled Peach, Pistachio, and Burrata Salad takes me back to warm summer evenings, where the simple joys of grilling fruit on the barbecue transformed it into something extraordinary. The sweetness of the peaches, grilled to perfection, meets the richness of burrata in such a harmonious way, creating a salad that feels both elegant and comforting. It’s a dish that celebrates the bounty of summer while also giving you a taste of something indulgent.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Grilled peaches have long been a favorite in many cultures. In Italy, fresh peaches are often grilled and served with cheese, creating a pairing that brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit. Burrata, which originates from Southern Italy, is a rich and creamy cheese made from mozzarella and cream. Combining these two ingredients with pistachios not only enhances the flavor but adds a delightful texture contrast.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Peach, Pistachio, and Burrata Salad

This salad checks all the boxes when it comes to both flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a light main course, this salad delivers. Here’s why it’s a keeper:

Versatile: You can easily make this salad your own by swapping out the greens or adding more fruits like figs or nectarines.

Budget-Friendly: Despite using high-quality ingredients like burrata, the salad is quite affordable, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this salad is incredibly easy to make, especially when you’re craving something fresh.

Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste add more nuts, use a different cheese, or switch the dressing for something tangy like lemon vinaigrette.

Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of sweet, savory, and creamy will surely win over anyone at the table.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the grilled peaches and pistachios ahead of time, making the final assembly quick and stress-free.

Great for Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, the salad keeps well in the fridge for the next day, though the burrata may be best enjoyed fresh.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use ripe peaches: The sweetness and juiciness of the peaches are key, so be sure they’re ripe when you grill them.
• Grill the peaches until slightly charred: This caramelizes the natural sugars, adding a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
• Dress the salad just before serving: This keeps the greens fresh and the burrata creamy.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This salad doesn’t require too many tools, but here’s what you’ll need for a seamless prep:

Grill or Grill Pan: For grilling the peaches to perfection.
Sharp Knife: To slice the peaches and burrata cleanly.
Salad Bowl: For tossing the salad and serving.
Tongs: To flip the peaches on the grill.

Ingredients in Grilled Peach, Pistachio, and Burrata Salad

Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful salad:

1. Peaches: 2 medium, halved and pitted. The peaches are the star of the dish, offering sweetness and a touch of smokiness from grilling.
2. Burrata: 200g (7 oz). This creamy, rich cheese is the perfect pairing with the grilled peaches, adding a smooth and indulgent contrast.
3. Pistachios: 1/4 cup, roughly chopped. The pistachios give a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that enhances the sweetness of the peaches.
4. Mixed Greens: 2 cups (e.g., arugula or spinach). A light and peppery base for the salad that balances the richness of the burrata.
5. Balsamic Glaze: 1-2 tablespoons. A sweet, tangy drizzle that ties all the flavors together and adds depth to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand:

Peaches: Nectarines or plums can be used if peaches are out of season.
Burrata: Fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be substituted if burrata is unavailable.
Pistachios: Walnuts or almonds can be used for a similar crunch.

Ingredient Spotlight

Peaches: Known for their sweet, juicy flavor, peaches are a summer favorite that add both freshness and a slight smokiness when grilled.

Burrata: This creamy cheese made from mozzarella and cream is a showstopper, offering a soft, luscious texture that balances the other ingredients.

Instructions for Making Grilled Peach, Pistachio, and Burrata Salad

Here’s how you can make this salad:

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, make sure it’s clean and oiled.

2. Combine Ingredients: Slice the peaches in half and remove the pits. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Place the peach halves on the grill, cut side down. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until the peaches have grill marks and are slightly softened.

4. Assemble the Dish: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, grilled peaches (sliced into wedges), and pistachios. Gently toss to mix.

5. Cook to Perfection: The burrata should be placed whole in the center of the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.

6. Finishing Touches: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad for a tangy finish.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, enjoying the balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The beauty of this salad lies in the contrast of textures and flavors. The grilled peaches offer a smoky sweetness with juicy tenderness, while the burrata provides a rich and creamy mouthfeel. The pistachios deliver a satisfying crunch, balancing the softness of the burrata and peaches. The balsamic glaze brings a tangy touch that ties it all together.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Grill the peaches until they have nice char marks to bring out the natural sweetness.
• Don’t overdo the balsamic glaze a light drizzle is all you need to enhance the flavor without overpowering it.
• Serve immediately to ensure the greens stay crisp and the burrata stays creamy.

What to Avoid

• Don’t overcrowd the grill when cooking the peaches, as they need space to cook evenly.
• Don’t skip the balsamic glaze; it adds a crucial element of acidity and sweetness that balances the rich burrata and grilled peaches.
• Avoid overcooking the peaches. They should be tender but still hold their shape and texture.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this salad is best served fresh, you can prep the grilled peaches and pistachios ahead of time. Store the grilled peaches in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply toss everything together and add the burrata and balsamic glaze just before serving.

How to Serve Grilled Peach, Pistachio, and Burrata Salad

This salad is perfect on its own as a light main or as a side to grilled meats like chicken or pork. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea to complete the meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you have leftovers, you can turn them into a delicious sandwich by adding grilled chicken or turkey and using the burrata as a creamy spread. You can also toss the ingredients with cooked quinoa for a heartier salad.

Additional Tips

• Make sure to use fresh burrata it’s key for that creamy texture.
• Adjust the sweetness with extra balsamic glaze or a drizzle of honey, depending on your taste.
• Experiment with extra herbs like basil or mint for a fresh twist.

Make It a Showstopper

For a more elegant presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls or plates, and garnish with extra herbs and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a beautiful finish.

Variations to Try

• Add prosciutto for a salty contrast.
• Substitute the pistachios with toasted pine nuts for a different crunch.
• Use goat cheese instead of burrata for a tangy twist.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grilled peaches and pistachios ahead of time. Just assemble the salad and add the burrata and balsamic glaze just before serving.

2. What can I use instead of burrata?
Fresh mozzarella or ricotta cheese would work well in place of burrata.

3. Can I use frozen peaches?
While fresh peaches work best for grilling, you can use frozen peaches if fresh ones are unavailable, though they may not have the same texture once grilled.

4. Can I make this vegan?
Yes, you can replace the burrata with a vegan cheese alternative.

5. How do I make this salad gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no modifications are necessary.

6. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

7. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Absolutely! A grill pan works just as well for grilling the peaches.

8. How do I know when the peaches are done?
The peaches should have nice grill marks and be slightly soft when pierced with a fork.

9. Can I use different nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds would be great substitutes for pistachios.

10. What other fruits can I add?
Figs, nectarines, or even strawberries would complement the flavors of this salad beautifully.

Conclusion

Grilled Peach, Pistachio, and Burrata Salad is the perfect dish to impress your guests or enjoy on a warm evening. With a balance of textures and a medley of flavors, it’s a salad that feels both special and comforting. Try it out, and let me know what you think this one’s definitely a crowd-pleaser!

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