Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad: The Most Flavorful Summer Salad Ever

Summer is the season of bold flavors, sun-ripened fruits, and fresh garden ingredients. And when it comes to combining these elements into one unforgettable dish, nothing compares to a grilled peach & burrata salad. This salad isn’t just refreshing—it’s a blend of creamy, sweet, and savory that captures the essence of warm-weather cooking. Featuring charred juicy peaches, cool creamy burrata, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and crunchy toasted walnuts, it’s a showstopper for everything from casual lunches to elegant summer dinners.

Discover great ideas like this salad recipe and more at Recipe Wishes.

Let’s dive into the heart of this dish—how to build it from scratch, grill the perfect peaches, what to pair it with, and why this salad should be your next favorite.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad

What is grilled peach & burrata salad?

Grilled peach & burrata salad is a vibrant dish that combines the natural sweetness of peaches with the rich, buttery texture of burrata cheese. When grilled, peaches release caramelized juices, intensifying their flavor, which balances beautifully with the cool, creamy center of burrata. Add in a mix of crisp greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, toasted walnuts, and a tangy balsamic glaze, and you’ve got a salad that feels like sunshine in a bowl.

This salad celebrates seasonal produce, uses minimal cooking, and is all about texture and contrast—soft cheese, charred fruit, crunchy nuts, and crisp greens. It’s perfect as a light meal or an appetizer and appeals to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Want visual inspiration? Browse Love & Lemons on Instagram to see how others plate their grilled peach salads.

Why it’s the ultimate summer salad

There are several reasons why this recipe is a summer essential:

• Peaches are in peak season: This is when they’re the sweetest and most affordable.
• No heavy cooking involved: A quick grill and you’re done—no ovens, no sweat.
• It’s customizable: You can use different greens, switch walnuts with pecans, or even add prosciutto for a twist.
• Visually stunning: The colors pop—orange peaches, white burrata, green basil, and red tomatoes make it Insta-worthy.
• Light yet satisfying: Thanks to healthy fats, protein from cheese and nuts, and complex flavors.

The grilled peach & burrata salad is also a great way to impress guests with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a garden brunch or craving a flavorful lunch, this dish is the perfect blend of fancy and easy.

Ingredients for the Perfect Peach and Burrata Salad

Fresh seasonal ingredients to use

The beauty of this grilled peach & burrata salad lies in its simplicity—and the quality of its ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each item matters:

Ingredient	Why It Matters
Peaches (3-4)	Use ripe but firm peaches. When grilled, they caramelize and become sweet yet slightly smoky.
Burrata Cheese (1 ball / ~150g)	Burrata is ultra-creamy on the inside with a mozzarella shell, adding richness and luxury to the dish.
Mixed Salad Leaves (3 cups)	A combination of lamb’s lettuce, pea shoots, and beet leaves adds a balance of tender crunch and color.
Cherry Tomatoes (1.5 cups)	They add acidity and juiciness to contrast the peaches’ sweetness.
Red Onion (thinly sliced)	Offers a sharp bite and color that offsets the creaminess of the burrata.
Toasted Walnuts (1/4 cup)	Crunchy and nutty—adds texture and a roasted flavor depth.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 tbsp)	Used for both cooking and dressing; adds fruity richness.
Balsamic Glaze (1 tbsp)	Drizzled on top for tang and a touch of sweetness.
Fresh Basil Leaves (handful)	Fragrant and peppery, they brighten the entire dish.
Sea Salt & Black Pepper	Enhances the overall flavor; a little goes a long way.

These ingredients are accessible, nutritious, and vibrant, offering the perfect base for building a salad that screams summer.

Burrata vs. Mozzarella: Best cheese options

Burrata is what sets this salad apart. It’s a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. When you tear it open, it oozes rich, buttery goodness—making it the dream partner for grilled fruit.

But what if you can’t find burrata?

• Mozzarella: Fresh buffalo mozzarella is a great stand-in. It’s firmer but still offers a nice creamy texture.
• Goat Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese adds tang and works well with peaches if you prefer a sharper flavor.
• Ricotta: For a lighter, fluffier texture, dollop spoonfuls of ricotta over the salad.

Still, if you want to stick to the true star combination, go with burrata. Its creamy center soaks up peach juices and balsamic glaze like a sponge, enhancing every bite.

How to Grill Peaches Perfectly for Salad (Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad)

Choosing ripe but firm peaches

Getting the right peaches is key. For this salad, you want ripe but firm peaches—the kind that give slightly when pressed but don’t feel mushy. Here’s why:

• Overripe peaches will fall apart on the grill and become too soft to handle.
• Underripe peaches won’t caramelize properly and may taste tart or chalky.

Look for peaches that:

• Have a sweet aroma at the stem
• Feel heavy for their size
• Show slight softness when gently squeezed

You can use yellow peaches for a stronger flavor or white peaches for a milder, floral sweetness. Either works beautifully.
For another take on fruity summer salads, check out this grilled peach salad with mint pesto from Love & Lemons.

Step-by-step grilling method for juicy peaches

Once you’ve picked your peaches, it’s time to get grilling. Whether you’re using a grill, griddle pan, or BBQ, the process is simple and fast.

Step 1: Slice the peaches
Cut your peaches in half, remove the pit, then slice into quarters or eighths depending on size. Uniform slices help them grill evenly.

Step 2: Brush lightly with oil
Use a neutral oil or olive oil to brush both sides of each slice. This helps prevent sticking and promotes those perfect grill marks.

Step 3: Preheat your grill or pan
You want medium-high heat. Too low, and you won’t get those caramelized edges. Too high, and the sugar in the fruit can burn.

Step 4: Grill 2–3 minutes per side
Place the peaches on the grill cut-side down. Grill each side for 2–3 minutes. Look for grill marks and slight softening.

Step 5: Remove and keep warm
Once done, transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm while you prep the salad.

Pro Tip: If you’re using a BBQ, grill some ciabatta slices right after your peaches. They soak up flavor from the grill and pair perfectly with the burrata.

Grilled peaches should be slightly tender but still hold their shape. The grilling brings out their natural sugars and adds a smoky depth that pairs irresistibly with the cheese.

Salad Assembly and Layering Techniques

How to assemble salad for the best taste

The secret to an unforgettable grilled peach & burrata salad isn’t just great ingredients—it’s how you build the salad. Layering flavors and textures properly ensures every forkful delivers the perfect balance.

Follow this simple assembly strategy:

1. Start with your greens
   • Spread the mixed salad leaves (like lamb’s lettuce, beet greens, or arugula) evenly on a large platter or shallow bowl.
   • Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and season with a pinch of sea salt to bring out natural flavors.
2. Add sliced tomatoes and onions
   • Halve the cherry tomatoes and scatter them across the greens.
   • Thinly slice a red onion and sprinkle throughout for a sharp contrast.
3. Lay on the grilled peaches
   • Gently arrange your grilled peach slices in between the greens and tomatoes. Their caramelized edges add warm, smoky notes that anchor the salad.
4. Place the burrata
   • Place the whole ball of burrata in the center of the salad. When you serve, tear it open to let the creamy center run across the greens.
5. Crumble in toasted walnuts
   • Add crunch and nutty depth by crumbling toasted walnut halves over the top.
6. Garnish with basil and glaze
   • Finish with torn basil leaves for freshness. Drizzle everything with balsamic glaze and an extra splash of olive oil for acidity and richness.

Layering burrata, tomatoes, and walnuts effectively

When layering, contrast is king. Here’s why your placement matters:

• Peaches next to burrata: Their sweetness complements the cheese’s creaminess.
• Tomatoes and onion spaced out: Helps prevent any one bite from becoming too acidic.
• Walnuts on top: Keeps them crunchy and ensures texture is present in every bite.

Chef’s Tip: Use a spoon to spread the creamy burrata once it’s torn—don’t mix it all in. Let the eater experience the texture on their own terms.

By taking the time to assemble with care, your salad won’t just taste better—it’ll look stunning too.

Flavor Enhancements and Toppings

Using balsamic glaze and olive oil for balance

The ingredients in this salad already sing on their own, but the final flavor boost comes from just two ingredients: extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. These simple add-ons elevate the taste and tie the entire dish together.

• Balsamic glaze: Its sweet tang cuts through the creaminess of the burrata and balances the sweetness of the peaches. A light drizzle—about a tablespoon—is all you need.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps carry the flavors of the herbs and grilled fruit. Use the highest-quality olive oil you can afford—cold-pressed and fruity is best.

Flavor Tip: Always add oil and glaze after assembling the salad. This keeps your greens crisp and prevents sogginess.

Why toasted walnuts and red onion matter

Don’t underestimate the supporting cast in this salad. Ingredients like toasted walnuts and thin red onion are small, but they do a lot of heavy lifting when it comes to balance and mouthfeel.

Here’s why they belong:

Topping	Flavor Contribution	Texture Benefit
Toasted Walnuts	Nutty, earthy flavor	Adds crunchy contrast to creamy cheese and soft peaches
Red Onion (raw)	Sharp, spicy bite	Keeps the salad from being too sweet or rich
Fresh Basil	Bright, peppery aroma	Enhances freshness and cuts richness

Bonus: You can switch walnuts with pecans for a slightly sweeter nuttiness or add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy edge.

Every element of this salad plays a role. Think of it like a symphony—each component adds a note that builds toward a flavorful crescendo.

Serving Tips and Side Pairings

What to serve with peach and burrata salad

While grilled peach & burrata salad is satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right sides or drinks can transform it into a full-course summer delight. Here’s how to round it out:

1. Bread options

A crispy toasted ciabatta is the go-to choice—it’s perfect for scooping up creamy burrata and soaking up the balsamic glaze. Other good options include:

• Sourdough crostini
• Garlic-rubbed focaccia
• Artisan baguette slices

Serving Tip: Toast the bread on the same grill after the peaches for extra flavor.

2. Charcuterie-style additions

If you want to dress this salad up for entertaining, try:

• Thin slices of prosciutto or speck
• Marinated olives
• Roasted red peppers
• A sprinkle of shaved parmesan

This gives your salad a more Mediterranean or Italian antipasto feel.

3. Grilled protein for heartiness

Make it dinner-ready by adding a protein element:

• Grilled shrimp
• Lemon herb chicken breast
• Balsamic-glazed tofu (for vegetarians)

These options still let the salad shine while adding more substance.

Best wines, bread, and lunch pairings

Pairing wine with fruit and cheese can be magical—especially when burrata and grilled peaches are involved. Here’s what to serve:

Pairing Type	Best Option	Why It Works
White Wine	Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio	Crisp acidity balances the creaminess of burrata and sweetness of peaches
Rosé	Dry Provence-style	Refreshing and fruity, mirrors the salad’s bright flavors
Sparkling Wine	Brut Champagne or Prosecco	Adds elegance and palate-cleansing bubbles

Non-alcoholic options like sparkling lemonade, kombucha, or a light cucumber mint cooler work beautifully too.

Looking for something refreshing? Discover our Pink Salt Morning Detox Drink that pairs surprisingly well with fresh summer salads.

Whether served as a starter, a light lunch, or the centerpiece of a summer picnic, this salad’s versatility means it can shine in any setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-grilling peaches and soggy leaves

One of the simplest ways to ruin a grilled peach & burrata salad is by getting heavy-handed with the grill or assembling it too early. These are the most common errors and how to avoid them:

1. Over-grilling the peaches

Peaches only need 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them mushy, collapses their structure, and causes them to lose all their juice on the grill—not your plate.

Pro Tip: Your grill or griddle should be medium-high. You want char marks, not burnt fruit.

2. Soggy salad leaves

Salad leaves wilt fast when exposed to heat or too much liquid. Don’t:

• Assemble the salad until everything is grilled and ready.
• Add olive oil or balsamic too early (dress just before serving).

If you’re prepping ahead, keep the grilled peaches, burrata, and greens separate and combine at the last minute.

Storage tips for leftovers

While fresh is best, here’s how to save your salad if there are leftovers:

• Separate storage: Store burrata, peaches, and greens in different airtight containers.
• Use within 1 day: Burrata doesn’t last long once opened. It’s best eaten within 24 hours.
• Revive greens: If your greens have wilted, dunk them in cold water for a few minutes, then spin dry before using.

Never microwave this salad. If you need to warm up the peaches, a quick reheat in a pan works better without destroying their texture.

Dietary Information and Substitutes

Vegetarian and gluten-free friendly swaps

One of the standout features of this grilled peach & burrata salad is its natural alignment with clean, flexible eating. It’s already vegetarian and packed with whole ingredients—but it’s also incredibly easy to adjust for different diets.

✅ Gluten-Free

• Already gluten-free by default (just skip the ciabatta).
• Use gluten-free bread or crackers for those who want to keep the salad satisfying without wheat.

✅ Vegan Option

• Replace burrata with plant-based mozzarella-style cheese or a homemade cashew cheese.
• Use agave syrup with a splash of apple cider vinegar as a balsamic glaze alternative if needed.

✅ Nut-Free

• Swap toasted walnuts for sunflower seeds or toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for crunch without allergens.

Customizable toppings make this salad perfect for potlucks and parties where dietary restrictions vary.

Nutrition breakdown and tips for healthier versions

This dish is balanced with carbs, fats, and protein—ideal for a summer lunch or light dinner. Here’s the approximate nutritional profile (based on 1 of 4 servings, without ciabatta):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	225 kcal
Carbohydrates	18.1g
Protein	8.7g
Fat	13.8g
Fiber	3.6g
Sugar	15.6g
Sodium	123mg

Want to lighten it up even more?

• Use half the burrata per serving.
• Cut back slightly on the olive oil and glaze.
• Double the greens and tomatoes to make it more filling, with fewer calories per bite.

This salad is low in saturated fat and full of vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants from peaches and tomatoes.

Not only is it a feast for the senses—it’s a smart nutritional choice too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s the complete, easy-to-follow recipe for making this vibrant grilled peach & burrata salad. It’s ready in just 20 minutes—perfect for a summer lunch or light dinner.

🍑 Grilled Peach & Burrata Salad Recipe

Course	Cuisine	Diet	Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings	Calories
Lunch	Salad	Vegetarian	10 minutes	10 minutes	20 minutes	4	225 kcal

Author: Michelle Alston
Equipment Needed: Grill, griddle pan, or BBQ

🛒 Ingredients

• 3–4 peaches (ripe but firm), halved and sliced into wedges
• 150g (1 ball) burrata
• 100g (3 cups) mixed salad leaves (lamb’s lettuce, pea shoots, beet greens)
• 200g (1.5 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 25g (¼ cup) toasted walnut halves
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
• A handful of fresh basil leaves
• ¼ tsp sea salt
• ⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Olive oil for cooking
• Ciabatta bread, optional (for serving)

🔥 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the base

• Add salad leaves to a large bowl or platter.
• Top with halved cherry tomatoes and sliced red onion.
• Sprinkle with ¼ tsp sea salt and toss lightly.

Step 2: Grill the peaches

• Preheat a griddle pan or BBQ over medium-high heat.
• Lightly brush both sides of the peach wedges with olive oil.
• Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and peaches soften slightly.
• Remove from grill and set aside on a warm plate.

Step 3: (Optional) Toast the ciabatta

• Slice ciabatta and brush lightly with oil.
• Grill each side until golden and crisp. Set aside for serving.

Step 4: Assemble the salad

• Layer grilled peaches over the salad.
• Tear burrata gently and place it across the top.
• Scatter toasted walnut halves and fresh basil leaves.

Step 5: Dress and finish

• Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp balsamic glaze over the salad.
• Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Serve immediately with toasted ciabatta on the side.

Notes:

• For a vegan option, swap burrata with plant-based mozzarella and skip the ciabatta or use gluten-free bread.
• Peaches should be ripe but firm to hold their shape when grilled.
• Burrata is available in most specialty or well-stocked grocery stores.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is peach and burrata salad?

Peach and burrata salad is a refreshing summer dish that combines sweet, juicy peaches—often grilled for extra flavor—with creamy burrata cheese. It’s typically served with fresh greens, tomatoes, toasted nuts, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, offering a contrast of textures and a balanced sweet-savory taste.

2. What to serve with peach and burrata salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread like toasted ciabatta, grilled proteins such as shrimp or chicken, and light wines like rosé or Pinot Grigio. You can also serve it as a starter before a summer BBQ or alongside other Mediterranean-style dishes.

3. What does burrata go well with?

Burrata complements both sweet and savory ingredients. It pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled peaches, nectarines, or figs
• Heirloom tomatoes
• Prosciutto or smoked meats
• Fresh basil and balsamic glaze
  Its creamy interior adds richness to salads, crostini, and even pizzas.

4. How do you grill peaches for salad?

To grill peaches:

• Slice them into wedges.
• Lightly brush with olive oil.
• Grill on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until tender and charred.
  Grilled peaches add caramelized sweetness and smoky depth to salads and sides.