Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad

This Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad is a delightful summer dish that brings together the sweetness of grilled peaches and corn with the heartiness of quinoa. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish at any meal, this salad is not just about taste; it’s also colorful and nutritious. The combination of fresh ingredients makes it a standout choice for both casual gatherings and elegant dinner parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh flavors: The grilling enhances the natural sweetness of peaches and corn.
• Nutritious ingredients: Quinoa adds protein and fiber, making it satisfying.
• Quick to prepare: Ready in just 19 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days.
• Versatile dish: Enjoy it as a main or side dish; it pairs well with many proteins.
• Vibrant presentation: The colorful ingredients make for an eye-catching meal.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delightful salad, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks on peaches and corn while infusing smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to toss all the ingredients together easily without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining the vinaigrette ingredients smoothly and evenly.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 peaches (pitted and each cut into 6 wedges)
• 2 ears corn
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 5 ounces baby arugula
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup quartered cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup shaved pecorino cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced chives

For the Vinaigrette

• 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your gas or charcoal grill on high heat. Once heated, oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

Rub the peaches and corn with 2 teaspoons of olive oil. This helps them grill beautifully while enhancing their flavors.

Step 3: Grill the Peaches and Corn

Grill the peaches until they have nice grill marks, which takes about 1-2 minutes per side. At the same time, grill the corn by turning it occasionally until it becomes lightly charred, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Cool and Cut Corn

After grilling, let the corn cool slightly before slicing off the kernels. This makes it easier to handle.

Step 5: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels, baby arugula, quinoa, quartered cherry tomatoes, shaved pecorino cheese, and minced chives. Mix gently to combine.

Step 6: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of white balsamic vinegar, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper until well mixed.

Step 7: Dress the Salad

Drizzle your homemade vinaigrette over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 8: Serve with Grilled Peaches

Arrange your colorful salad on a serving plate or in a bowl. Top with grilled peach wedges for an aesthetically pleasing finish.

Enjoy your vibrant Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad, packed with flavor that captures summer in every bite!

How to Serve Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad

This vibrant Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad is not only delicious but also versatile in how it can be served. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner, here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it as a light yet filling main course for lunch or dinner, packed with protein from quinoa and topped with sweet grilled peaches.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for added protein and flavor. The juicy chicken complements the sweetness of the peaches perfectly.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Present the salad alongside slices of crusty bread. This adds texture and allows your guests to enjoy every bite while soaking up the vinaigrette.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve over a bed of mixed greens for an extra layer of freshness. This presentation can make the dish even more visually appealing.

Garnished with Nuts

• Top the salad with toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.

How to Perfect Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad

To achieve the perfect blend of flavors in your Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad, consider these simple tips. They will ensure that each bite is delightful and fresh.

• Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness when grilled.
• Use fresh corn: Freshly shucked corn will give you the best flavor. If using frozen corn, thaw it thoroughly before grilling.
• Grill on high heat: High grill heat will create nice char marks on both peaches and corn, enhancing their flavors.
• Don’t skip the vinaigrette: The white balsamic vinaigrette is key! Whisk it well to ensure all ingredients are combined, bringing out the salad’s best flavors.
• Add herbs for freshness: Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can elevate this dish further. Sprinkle them on just before serving.
• Serve immediately: For optimal taste and texture, serve the salad right after preparing it. This ensures everything stays fresh and crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad

Complement your Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall experience.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in garlic adds a savory depth that pairs well with the sweetness of the salad.
2. Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries: These fries offer a crunchy contrast while adding natural sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with grilled peaches.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls paired with cherry tomatoes and basil make for a refreshing bite that balances the salad’s flavors.
4. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, cucumber, and feta cheese brings a Mediterranean twist that complements your salad nicely.
5. Zucchini Fritters: These light fritters add a crispy texture while being filled with fresh zucchini flavor that enhances your meal.
6. Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers: Add more quinoa goodness by serving bell peppers stuffed with seasoned quinoa—a great way to incorporate more veggies into your meal.
7. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread makes for an excellent side that contrasts nicely with grilled fruits.
8. Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad seasoned with lemon juice can add protein while maintaining brightness alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Bold flavors: Not using enough seasoning can leave your salad bland. Enhance the taste with adequate salt and pepper in both the salad and vinaigrette.
• Overcooking peaches: Grilling peaches too long can make them mushy. Aim for just 1-2 minutes per side to maintain their firmness and flavor.
• Skipping prep: Forgetting to cook quinoa ahead of time can delay your meal. Make sure it’s cooked and cooled before you start assembling the salad.
• Using dull knives: A dull knife can squish rather than slice your ingredients. Invest in a sharp knife for clean cuts, especially for peaches and tomatoes.
• Ignoring ratios: Too much of one ingredient can overpower the others. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor throughout.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad

• Freezing is not recommended since it can alter the texture of fresh ingredients like peaches and arugula.
• If necessary, freeze individual components (like quinoa) separately.

Reheating Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Sauté on low heat in a non-stick pan for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad.

Can I use different fruits?

Yes! You can substitute peaches with nectarines or plums for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

What if I don’t have pecorino cheese?

You can replace pecorino with feta cheese or omit it altogether for a dairy-free version.

How do I make this salad vegan?

Simply eliminate the cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers or cucumbers to add more crunch and flavor to your salad.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Peach, Corn and Quinoa Salad is vibrant, fresh, and perfect for summer gatherings. With its delightful combination of sweet grilled peaches, crunchy corn, and healthy quinoa, this dish is not only nutritious but also customizable. Try adding your favorite vegetables or nuts to make it your own!