Grilled Peach Salad with Curry Pecans & Honey Vinaigrette

Grilled Peach Salad with Curry Pecans is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the crunch of spiced pecans, creamy feta, and tangy honey vinaigrette. This vibrant salad is perfect for a summer gathering, a light lunch, or as a unique side dish. The combination of warm and cold ingredients, along with the fragrant spices, makes this salad a flavorful and satisfying option for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup pecans
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the peach halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the peaches for 3-4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the peaches are tender.
4. In a small bowl, toss the pecans with curry powder and a pinch of salt.
5. Toast the spiced pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly toasted.
6. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, grilled peaches, and toasted curry pecans.
7. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey, white wine vinegar, and olive oil to create the vinaigrette.
8. Drizzle the honey vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Chicken: Add grilled chicken breast for extra protein and a heartier meal.
• Substitute Nuts: You can substitute pecans with other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds.
• Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese and substitute it with a vegan cheese or avocado for a plant-based version.
• Additional Fruits: Add other seasonal fruits, such as grilled pineapple or strawberries, for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate to avoid soggy greens. Refrigerate the salad (without the dressing) for up to 1 day. The grilled peaches and pecans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use canned peaches?
   While fresh peaches provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned peaches in syrup as a substitute if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to drain and pat them dry.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to preserve the freshness of the greens and the grilled peaches. You can prep the ingredients (grilled peaches, toasted pecans, vinaigrette) ahead of time and assemble the salad when ready to serve.
3. How can I make the vinaigrette spicy?
   If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the vinaigrette for extra spice.
4. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, goat cheese or a mild blue cheese can be used in place of feta for a different flavor profile.
5. How do I toast pecans?
   Toasting pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes enhances their flavor. Stir them frequently to prevent burning.
6. Can I use a grill pan for the peaches?
   Yes, a grill pan works well for grilling peaches indoors if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
7. Can I serve this salad warm?
   This salad is best served fresh with grilled peaches, but you can serve it slightly warm if you prefer.
8. Can I add more protein to this salad?
   Yes, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can turn this salad into a more filling main course.
9. How can I make the salad sweeter?
   You can increase the honey in the vinaigrette or add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top of the salad for additional sweetness.
10. Can I use a different vinegar in the dressing?
    You can substitute white wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

This Grilled Peach Salad with Curry Pecans is a vibrant, flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy elements. The combination of juicy grilled peaches, spiced pecans, and a honey vinaigrette makes this salad a delicious choice for any occasion. With plenty of room for customization, it’s easy to make it your own. Whether served as a side dish or as a light meal, this salad is sure to impress!

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