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Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic : there’s something magical about the combination of sweet summer peaches, creamy burrata, and a tangy balsamic glaze. This vibrant dish isn’t just a feast for the eyes — it’s an explosion of contrasting textures and bold flavors that sing of sunshine and alfresco dining. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, a picnic, or just want something fresh for lunch, this Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic delivers on all fronts.

Not only does this salad celebrate seasonal produce, it also introduces you to the creamy luxury of burrata cheese. If you’ve never tried it before, this soft Italian cheese filled with stracciatella and cream is a serious game changer. You can learn more about what makes this cheese so special in this burrata guide.

But what really elevates the entire dish is a simple balsamic reduction. You can make it at home by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens, or explore expert tips on how to get it just right by checking out this balsamic glaze recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

Combines sweet, tangy, creamy, and peppery flavors
Quick and easy to prepare (under 20 minutes)
Makes a beautiful starter or light main dish
Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly
Easily customizable for different diets or occasions

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to build this dish from the ground up:

3 ripe but firm peaches, halved and pitted
8 oz burrata cheese
2–3 cups fresh arugula or your choice of leafy greens
Olive oil for brushing and drizzling
Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic reduction (homemade or store-bought)
Optional: fresh basil, pistachios, prosciutto, or a drizzle of honey

How to Choose the Best Peaches

When selecting peaches for grilling, opt for freestone peaches. They’re easier to pit and tend to hold up better to heat than overly ripe ones. Look for:

Peaches that are fragrant and just slightly soft to the touch
Smooth skin without bruises
A golden hue around the stem — a sign of ripeness

Avoid clingstone varieties or overly soft peaches, which may become mushy when grilled.

Grilling Peaches 101

Grilling peaches transforms them from a juicy snack into a caramelized delight. The heat enhances their natural sugars and adds just the right smoky edge. For best results, follow these tips:

Slice peaches in half (don’t peel them)
Brush each side with olive oil to prevent sticking
Use medium heat and grill for 3–4 minutes per side without flipping too soon
Grill marks = flavor and beauty!

To understand why grilled fruit works so well, take a look at this guide on grilling fruit — it dives into the science behind it.

What Is a Balsamic Reduction?

A balsamic reduction is just what it sounds like: balsamic vinegar simmered down until it becomes a syrupy glaze. The longer it reduces, the thicker and more flavorful it becomes.

Homemade Balsamic Glaze:

Add 1 cup balsamic vinegar to a saucepan
Simmer over low heat for 10–15 minutes until reduced by half
Optional: stir in a teaspoon of honey for sweetness

This reduction adds a sweet-tangy punch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy burrata and smoky peaches.

Assembling the Perfect Peach Burrata Salad

Once your peaches are grilled and glaze is ready, assembling the salad is a breeze. Here’s how:

Start with a base of fresh arugula on each plate.
Place two grilled peach halves per serving on top.
Tear burrata gently and scatter pieces over the salad.
Drizzle generously with balsamic reduction.
Finish with a pinch of salt, cracked black pepper, and a light olive oil drizzle.
Garnish with fresh basil, microgreens, or toasted nuts if desired.

Optional Add-Ins and Customizations

This salad is highly adaptable — feel free to experiment with different textures and flavors:

Add crunch: Toasted pistachios, walnuts, or croutons
Add protein: Thin slices of prosciutto or grilled chicken
Leafy green swaps: Spinach, baby kale, or butter lettuce
Herbal notes: Fresh mint or thyme can be lovely additions

Dietary Tips

Dairy-free version: Swap burrata for a plant-based soft cheese
Keto-friendly version: Limit fruit to one peach and skip honey if using it in the glaze

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Wondering how to enjoy this salad beyond a quick lunch? Here are some pairing ideas:

Serve as an elegant starter before grilled meats or pasta
Pair with a crisp rosé, chilled white wine, or sparkling water with lemon
Add to a charcuterie board with olives, nuts, and crackers
Serve over sourdough toast for a twist on bruschetta

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overripe peaches: Too soft and fall apart on the grill
Skipping the oil: Causes sticking and burns on the fruit
Cold burrata: Let it sit out for 10 minutes before serving
Overdoing the glaze: A light drizzle goes a long way

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Grill peaches in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge
Prepare balsamic reduction ahead of time (it keeps for up to a month in the fridge)
Assemble the salad just before serving to avoid sogginess

FAQs

Can you eat burrata raw?
Yes! Burrata is meant to be enjoyed raw at room temperature. Its center becomes perfectly creamy and luscious when not chilled.

What does peach salad go with?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, flatbreads, or crusty bread for a summery meal.

Can you use mozzarella instead of burrata?
You can, but burrata offers a much creamier texture. Fresh mozzarella is a firmer alternative that works in a pinch.

How long does balsamic reduction last?
Homemade balsamic glaze can last up to a month in a sealed container in the fridge.

Can you grill canned peaches?
While it’s possible, fresh peaches hold up better and offer better flavor when grilled.

Final Thoughts

This Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic is everything a summer dish should be: fresh, flavorful, easy, and beautiful. With a few simple ingredients and thoughtful preparation, you can create a dish that impresses at gatherings or elevates a weeknight dinner. Whether you enjoy it solo with a glass of wine or as part of a full meal, this salad is bound to become a seasonal favorite.

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