Imagine a vibrant salad that captures the essence of summer flavors, combining the sweetness of grilled peaches and nectarines with the creaminess of burrata. The Grilled Peach, Nectarine & Burrata Christmas Salad with Basil Oil and Toasted Almonds is not just a dish; it’s an experience that delights the palate and brings joy during the festive season. This salad is perfect for holiday gatherings, providing a refreshing contrast to more traditional heavy dishes, while still being festive and visually stunning on the plate.
What makes this salad truly special is the versatility of its ingredients. The juicy peaches and nectarines, kissed by the grill’s flames, deliver that perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness which pairs incredibly well with the fresh, peppery notes of wild rocket. The creamy burrata adds a luxurious touch, melting in your mouth and tying all flavors together beautifully. Drizzled with vibrant basil oil and sprinkled with crunchy toasted almonds, this salad is as good to look at as it is to eat. Serve it at your holiday table, and watch as it becomes a favorite among your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Peach, Nectarine & Burrata Christmas Salad
- Flavorful: The combination of grilled fruits, creamy burrata, and aromatic basil oil creates a delightful burst of flavors.
- Simple to Prepare: With minimal cooking involved, this salad can be whipped up in no time, making it great for last-minute gatherings.
- Seasonal Goodness: Celebrate the holidays with fresh, seasonal ingredients that are sure to impress.
- Visually Stunning: The bright colors and textures make this salad a centerpiece on any festive table.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delicious world of the Grilled Peach, Nectarine & Burrata Christmas Salad, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and tools. Start by gathering all the ingredients, ensuring everything is fresh and ready to go. A sturdy grill pan or barbecue is key for achieving perfectly caramelized peaches and nectarines. You’ll also need a sharp knife for slicing fruits, a blender or food processor for crafting that vibrant basil oil, and a large serving platter or individual plates for presenting your beautiful salad.
A clean and organized workspace will not only make cooking easier but also more enjoyable. As you prepare, wash the fruits and vegetables thoroughly to ensure freshness. Have your serving utensils on hand, and don’t forget to set out some pretty lime wedges for that final, zesty touch. With everything in place, you’re ready to get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 nectarines, sliced
- 120 g wild rocket (arugula)
- 1 large cucumber, shaved into ribbons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 balls fresh burrata
- 1/4 cup flaked almonds, lightly toasted
- Fresh mint leaves
- Micro herbs (optional)
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- Basil Oil
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Finishing
- Fresh lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Grill the Fruits
Begin by preheating your grill pan or barbecue to a medium-high setting. Lightly brushing the halved peaches with olive oil prevents them from sticking and helps caramelize them beautifully. Place the peaches on the grill, cut side down, and let them cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side, until they have lovely grill marks and are slightly softened. Once cooked, remove them from the heat and set them aside to cool slightly before slicing.
Step 2: Prepare the Basil Oil
While the peaches are cooling, it’s time to whip up the basil oil. In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth and vibrant green consistency. This fragrant oil is not just a dressing; it adds depth and a fresh burst of flavor to the entire salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Now comes the fun part – assembling the salad! Start by laying a bed of wild rocket on a large serving platter or on individual plates. Next, layer the cucumber ribbons, cherry tomato halves, and the grilled peach halves along with fresh nectarine slices. For a luxurious touch, tear the burrata apart gently, allowing its creamy goodness to cascade over the salad. Drizzle the prepared basil oil generously over everything, enhancing the flavors and presentation. Finally, finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, scattering the toasted flaked almonds, fresh mint leaves, and optional micro herbs across the top, and sprinkle with cracked black pepper for that perfect kick.
Variations
- Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more robust meal.
- Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal greens or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Spices: For a bit of heat, sprinkle on red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to choose ripe, sweet peaches and nectarines for the best flavor.
- Feel free to prepare the basil oil in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this salad as a refreshing side dish at holiday dinners.
- Pair it with grilled meats for a complete meal.
Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the grill — this ensures better caramelization.
- Experiment with different herbs in place of basil, such as cilantro or parsley.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Protein: 8 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
FAQs
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, you can pre-grill the peaches and prepare the basil oil in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
What if I can’t find burrata?
If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a great alternative. It won’t have the same creamy texture, but it will still taste delicious.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the burrata and consider substituting it with a plant-based cheese or avocado for creaminess.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add some cooked quinoa or farro to the salad to make it heartier and more suitable as a main dish.
Conclusion
The Grilled Peach, Nectarine & Burrata Christmas Salad with Basil Oil and Toasted Almonds is a true celebration of flavors and textures, bringing a fresh twist to your holiday table. With its vibrant colors and delightful combinations of ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also impressively eye-catching. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a special dish to bring to a potluck, this unique salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations in the comments below, and encourage friends and family to try this festive dish. Enjoy the season with this extraordinary addition to your holiday menu!
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Grilled Peach, Nectarine & Burrata Christmas Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant salad featuring grilled peaches, nectarines, creamy burrata, and aromatic basil oil.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 nectarines, sliced
- 120 g wild rocket (arugula)
- 1 large cucumber, shaved into ribbons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 balls fresh burrata
- 1/4 cup flaked almonds, lightly toasted
- Fresh mint leaves
- Micro herbs (optional)
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- Basil Oil
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Finishing
- Fresh lime wedges
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your grill pan or barbecue to a medium-high setting. Lightly brushing the halved peaches with olive oil prevents them from sticking and helps caramelize them beautifully. Place the peaches on the grill, cut side down, and let them cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side, until they have lovely grill marks and are slightly softened. Once cooked, remove them from the heat and set them aside to cool slightly before slicing.
- While the peaches are cooling, it’s time to whip up the basil oil. In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth and vibrant green consistency. This fragrant oil is not just a dressing; it adds depth and a fresh burst of flavor to the entire salad.
- Now comes the fun part – assembling the salad! Start by laying a bed of wild rocket on a large serving platter or on individual plates. Next, layer the cucumber ribbons, cherry tomato halves, and the grilled peach halves along with fresh nectarine slices. For a luxurious touch, tear the burrata apart gently, allowing its creamy goodness to cascade over the salad. Drizzle the prepared basil oil generously over everything, enhancing the flavors and presentation. Finally, finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, scattering the toasted flaked almonds, fresh mint leaves, and optional micro herbs across the top, and sprinkle with cracked black pepper for that perfect kick.
Notes
Make sure to choose ripe, sweet peaches and nectarines for the best flavor. Feel free to prepare the basil oil in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Protein: 8 g