Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a bright, summery dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is a dream come true. This show-stopping salad celebrates juicy grilled peaches, creamy goat cheese, zippy basil vinaigrette, crunchy pistachios, and an array of lively greens. Every bite is a lively mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors—just the kind of salad that wows at brunch, outdoor picnics, or when you want to treat yourself to something a little special. Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette brings a gourmet twist to the table, yet feels wonderfully laid-back and easygoing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of this Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is rooted in its simple, vibrant ingredients. Each addition plays an important role, whether it’s adding juicy freshness, creamy richness, or a pop of color. Here’s exactly what you’ll need—and why you don’t want to skip a thing.

• Ripe but firm peaches: The star of the show! Choose peaches that give slightly to the touch but aren’t mushy for the best grill marks and flavor.
• Olive oil: Brings out the peaches’ natural sweetness and helps everything caramelize beautifully on the grill.
• Leafy greens: A mix of arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce gives the salad a mix of peppery, tender, and buttery notes.
• Red onion: Sliced thin, it adds sharpness and color contrast without overwhelming the dish.
• Cherry tomatoes: Sliced lengthwise, they offer bursts of sweetness and a juicy, colorful finish.
• Avocado: Adds creamy texture and a soothing richness that balances bold flavors.
• Goat cheese: Crumbled over top for tang and a luscious, creamy bite. Feta works if you prefer something saltier.
• Roasted salted pistachios: For crunch and a nutty finish that’s irresistible with peaches and cheese.
• Olive oil or avocado oil (for dressing): Builds the rich backbone of your basil vinaigrette.
• Apple cider vinegar: Lifts up all the flavors with lively acidity and a touch of fruitiness.
• Raw honey: Naturally sweetens the dressing and complements the peaches.
• Dijon mustard: Adds depth, a little tang, and helps the vinaigrette emulsify smoothly.
• Kosher salt: Makes all the flavors pop.
• Fresh chopped basil: For an herby, fresh lift that ties the whole salad together.

How to Make Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

Step 1: Grill the Peaches

Start by gently tossing your peach wedges with olive oil. Get your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-425°F. Arrange the peaches directly on the grates and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when you see softening flesh and those irresistible light grill marks. Carefully move them to a plate and let them cool a bit—this lets the sweetness develop and keeps your salad from wilting.

Step 2: Make the Basil Vinaigrette

Combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, dijon mustard, kosher salt, and chopped fresh basil in a jar with a lid. Shake the jar vigorously until the vinaigrette looks creamy and combined. Alternatively, whisk everything in a tall measuring glass. This homemade dressing is what gives the Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette its lively, herbal punch!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add your greens to a large serving bowl. Pour half of the basil vinaigrette over and toss well, coating everything in herby goodness. Arrange sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and your grilled peaches on top of the greens—don’t be shy about prettying it up! Finish with crumbled goat cheese and a generous sprinkle of pistachios over the whole salad.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Drizzle the remaining basil vinaigrette on top, or pass it around so everyone can add as much as they like. Serve immediately and watch as everyone swoons over the bold colors and unforgettable flavors of your Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette.

How to Serve Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

Garnishes

A little extra fresh basil, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a few edible flowers can make your Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette look restaurant-worthy. If you crave a touch more crunch, toss on some toasted sunflower seeds or microgreens.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a centerpiece but pairs beautifully with crusty bread, chilled gazpacho, or grilled chicken for a light meal. For bigger gatherings, serve alongside a platter of herby couscous or a tray of roasted vegetables. The versatility of Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette means it can play nicely with just about anything.

Creative Ways to Present

For a striking appetizer, layer salad components in individual small jars or glasses. Serve on a bed of watermelon for even more summer flavor, or tuck the salad into endive leaves for an elegant finger food. You can also present the salad deconstructed on a large board, letting guests build their own perfect bite of Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you anticipate leftovers, keep the greens and basil vinaigrette separate—this keeps everything crisp and vibrant for up to three days in airtight containers. Just add the grilled peaches, cheese, and pistachios when you’re ready to eat. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight!

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette, as the textures of the fresh greens, peaches, and avocado will suffer. The vinaigrette itself, however, can be frozen in a small container for up to two months; simply thaw and shake before serving.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat any components—Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If your grilled peaches have been refrigerated, let them sit out for a few minutes to lose their chill before adding to the salad.

FAQs

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Fresh peaches are ideal for grilling, but in a pinch, you can use well-drained canned peaches. Just handle them gently as they’re much softer and might not hold their shape on the grill. The flavor of Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette will be a little sweeter and less smoky, but still delicious.

What’s the best cheese substitute for goat cheese?

Feta is a fantastic stand-in if you want a little more saltiness. For a dairy-free option, try a creamy cashew cheese or simply leave out the cheese—the salad is still bursting with flavor thanks to the grilled peaches and basil vinaigrette.

Can I grill the peaches indoors?

Absolutely! If outdoor grilling isn’t possible, use a stovetop grill pan. You’ll still get those lovely grill marks and caramelized flavor. Just make sure the pan is well-oiled and hot before you place the peaches on it.

Is there a way to make the salad nut-free?

Definitely. Simply omit the pistachios or swap them for toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds. You’ll still have plenty of crunch and the Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette will remain both satisfying and allergy-friendly.

Can I make the basil vinaigrette in advance?

Yes, the basil vinaigrette can be made up to three days ahead. Store it in a tightly sealed jar in the fridge and give it a good shake before using. Fresh basil flavor gets even more pronounced as it sits, making your salad shine.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re celebrating peach season, hosting friends, or just craving something special for lunch, Grilled Peach Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I hope it brightens your table and brings a smile to your face — don’t be surprised if this salad steals the spotlight at every meal. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you!

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