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Fresh Grilled Peach Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction

Fresh Grilled Peach Caprese Salad - featured image

A simple, bright summer salad featuring smoky grilled peaches, creamy fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, and a tangy homemade balsamic reduction. Perfect for quick backyard dinners or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls or sliced mozzarella
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing and drizzling
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar (preferably aged)
  • 12 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (optional, for balsamic reduction)
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic reduction: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1-2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar depending on sweetness preference. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and syrupy (about 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). Brush grill grates or pan with oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Halve and pit peaches. Brush cut sides lightly with extra-virgin olive oil.
  4. Grill peaches cut side down for 3-4 minutes until char marks appear and peaches soften slightly. Flip and grill skin side for 2-3 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
  5. Slice mozzarella into 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick slices or pull apart mozzarella balls.
  6. On a large platter or individual plates, alternate slices of grilled peach with mozzarella. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top.
  7. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the salad. Spoon balsamic reduction generously on top. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  8. Serve immediately while peaches are still slightly warm.

Notes

Use firm but juicy peaches to hold up on the grill. Watch balsamic reduction carefully to avoid burning. If balsamic reduction thickens too much, warm gently before drizzling. For dairy-free option, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese or tofu. For vegan balsamic reduction, replace honey with maple syrup or agave.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled peach salad, caprese salad, balsamic reduction, summer salad, fresh mozzarella, grilled fruit salad, easy summer recipe