Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on summer flavors! The Grilled Peach and Granola Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Imagine biting into warm, caramelized peaches nestled atop a bed of crisp greens, complemented by crunchy granola and creamy goat cheese. This recipe not only looks stunning on your plate but also takes just 20 minutes to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Ready to impress your family and friends? Dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to elevate your salad game to a whole new level!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup granola
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Wash the peaches thoroughly and pat them dry. Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits using a small spoon or knife.
- Brush the peach halves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and lightly season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Place the peach halves cut-side down on the hot grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes until nice grill marks appear and the peaches are slightly softened.
- Remove the grilled peaches from the heat and let them cool for a few minutes. Once cool enough to handle, slice each peach half into wedges.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as a base layer.
- Arrange the grilled peach wedges on top of the greens.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans and crumbled goat cheese over the salad.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil and honey over the salad.
- Finish by generously scattering the granola across the top of the salad.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately while the peaches are still warm and the granola remains crisp.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peaches: Opt for ripe but firm peaches to ensure they hold their shape when grilled. Overripe peaches may become mushy and lose their texture.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high heat. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and caramelization on the peaches.
- Oil the Grates: To prevent the peaches from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates before placing the peach halves on them.
- Experiment with Greens: While mixed greens work wonderfully, feel free to use arugula or spinach for a peppery kick or kale for added nutrition.
- Customize Your Toppings: Don't hesitate to add your favorite nuts or seeds! Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds can add a unique flavor and crunch.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the salad immediately while the peaches are still warm, which enhances the overall flavor and texture.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this salad into a heartier dish, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
