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Grilled Peach Salad with Mint Pesto

Grilled Peach Salad with Mint Pesto: Your Summer Must-Try!

This Grilled Peach Salad with Mint Pesto offers a refreshing blend of smoky peaches and creamy mozzarella, perfect for summer days.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 6 medium peaches Provides natural sweetness and a smoky flavor when grilled; use ripe peaches for optimal taste.
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese Adds creaminess that balances the sweetness of the peaches.
  • 1 cup arugula Contributes a peppery bite, enhancing the salad's flavor complexity.
  • 1/2 cup escarole Offers a slightly bitter flavor that beautifully balances the sweetness of the peaches.
  • 1 bunch watercress Adds a fresh, slightly spicy flavor to complement the other salad components.
For the Toasty Crunch
  • 1/8 cup pine nuts Provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that ties the salad together.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 medium lemon Juice brightens the salad with acidity and freshness.
  • fresh ground peppercorn Enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a subtle kick.
For the Mint Basil Pesto
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves Forms the base of the pesto, offering a fragrant herbal note.
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves Infuses the pesto with a refreshing twist that pairs perfectly with peaches.
  • 1 clove garlic Adds depth of flavor to the pesto for a savory contrast.
  • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Creates a luscious, smooth consistency in the pesto.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest Adds bright citrus notes that enhance the overall flavor.
  • kosher salt Season to taste and enhance the overall flavor of the pesto.

Equipment

  • grill
  • food processor
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it's heating, peel and halve the peaches, removing the pits. Lightly brush each peach half with extra virgin olive oil. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill and cook them for 3-4 minutes until you see beautifully charred grill marks and the peaches become slightly tender. Flip them carefully and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  2. In a small food processor, combine 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, a garlic clove, 2 tablespoons of lemon zest, and a pinch of kosher salt. Pulse until everything is finely chopped. Gradually stream in 3/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil while blending until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with fresh ground pepper as desired.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of arugula, 1/2 cup of escarole, and a handful of watercress. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance their flavors. Gently toss the greens together to coat evenly, making sure they are beautifully mixed and ready for the delightful toppings that will follow.
  4. On a large serving platter, create a lovely bed of the mixed greens as the foundation for your Grilled Peach Salad with Mint Pesto. Carefully place the grilled peach halves on top of the greens, arranging them for visual appeal. Next, add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy peaches.
  5. Dollop generous amounts of your homemade mint basil pesto over the salad, allowing it to swirl beautifully into the other ingredients. Drizzle any remaining lemon juice over the top to brighten the dish. Lastly, season with fresh ground pepper to enhance the overall flavor, tying all the delicious elements together in this enticing Grilled Peach Salad with Mint Pesto.

Nutrition

Serving: 1saladCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Serve at room temperature for the best flavor experience and feel free to customize greens with baby spinach or kale for a different texture and taste.

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