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Fresh Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Creamy Goat Cheese

grilled peach and arugula salad - featured image

A light and satisfying salad featuring smoky grilled peaches, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese, dressed with a simple homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for warm weather and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted
  • 4 cups fresh baby arugula
  • 4 ounces creamy goat cheese, crumbled or sliced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C), about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Rinse and dry the peaches. Cut them in half and remove the pits. Brush each half lightly with olive oil.
  3. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Grill for 3-4 minutes without moving to get grill marks.
  4. Flip carefully and grill for another 2-3 minutes until tender but still holding shape.
  5. While peaches grill, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.
  6. Place arugula in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle about half the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
  7. Arrange the dressed arugula on a serving platter or individual plates. Slice the grilled peaches into wedges and lay on top.
  8. Crumble or slice goat cheese over the salad. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts if using.
  9. Drizzle the remaining vinaigrette lightly over the assembled salad. Serve immediately while peaches are still warm.

Notes

Choose firm, ripe peaches to prevent them from falling apart on the grill. Oil the grill or pan well to avoid sticking. Don’t flip peaches too soon; wait 3-4 minutes to develop a crust. Dressing can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. For dairy-free, substitute goat cheese with vegan cheese alternative. If no grill is available, roast peaches in a 425°F oven for 10-12 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled peach salad, arugula salad, goat cheese salad, summer salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, grilled fruit salad