Refreshing August Salad with Grilled Peaches and Avocado

As the summer sun blazes in August, our cravings often shift towards light, refreshing meals that keep us cool and energized. This is the perfect time to embrace the season's bounty, with fresh fruits and vegetables at their peak. One of the best ways to enjoy this abundance is by creating a vibrant, healthy salad that satisfies your taste buds and nourishes your body.

Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that encapsulates the essence of August: a Grilled Peach and Avocado Salad. This dish is a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, with a mix of textures that pleasure every bite. It’s packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a side dish at your summer BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 avocados, sliced
• Mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your favorite mix)
• 1/4 cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled
• 1/4 cup pecans, toasted
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Grill the Peaches: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. Place them on the grill, cut side down, and grill for about 3-4 minutes until they have nice grill marks and are slightly softened. Remove them from the grill and let them cool, then slice them into wedges.

2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the mixed greens. Top with the sliced avocados, grilled peach wedges, crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, and red onion slices.

4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to mash the avocados.

5. Serve: Serve immediately while the peaches are still slightly warm. This creates a wonderful contrast to the cool greens and creamy avocado.

Health Benefits:

• Peaches are rich in vitamins A and C, which are great for skin health and immunity.
• Avocados provide healthy fats that are essential for heart health and help keep you full longer.
• Mixed greens offer a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting overall health.
• Goat cheese adds a touch of creaminess and a dose of calcium.
• Pecans bring a crunchy texture and are packed with antioxidants and healthy fats.

Final Thoughts:

This Grilled Peach and Avocado Salad is a feast for the eyes and a nutritious powerhouse. It’s perfect for those hot August days when you want something light yet satisfying. You can enjoy it alone or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.

Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together or just looking for a quick and healthy dish to whip up, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try, and let the flavors of August shine on your plate!