Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad with Honey-Balsamic Glaze and Candied Pecans
Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Difficulty: Easy Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- For the Salad:
- 4 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 pound mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your favorite blend)
- 8 ounces burrata cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup candied pecans (or walnuts)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- For the Honey-Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Things to Avoid:
- Overgrilling the peaches: This will make them mushy. Grill just until they have grill marks and are slightly softened.
- Using cold burrata: Room temperature burrata will have a creamier texture and will spread more easily.
- Skipping the candied pecans: They add a wonderful crunch and sweetness to the salad.
- Overdressing the salad: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed.
Instructions:
- Make the Honey-Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Peaches: Lightly brush the cut sides of the peaches with olive oil. Place the peaches on the preheated grill, cut-side down, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the peaches are slightly softened. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens. Gently tear the burrata into pieces and arrange on top of the greens. Slice the grilled peaches and add them to the salad along with the candied pecans.
- Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle the salad with the honey-balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Substitutions:
- Peaches: Nectarines or plums can be used as a substitute.
- Burrata: Fresh mozzarella can be used as a substitute.
- Candied Pecans: Candied walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute.
- Mixed Greens: Use any type of greens you prefer, such as romaine lettuce, kale, or spring mix.
- Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute.
Additional Tips:
- Add some protein: Grilled chicken or shrimp would be a great addition to this salad.
- Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese and omit the honey in the glaze.
- Get creative: Try adding other fruits, such as berries or sliced figs, to the salad.
This unique and flavorful salad is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. The combination of sweet grilled peaches, creamy burrata, crunchy pecans, and tangy honey-balsamic glaze is simply irresistible. Enjoy!
