Name: Grilled Corn Peach Salad: A Summer Delight You’ll Crave
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Can use another neutral oil.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Can substitute with lime juice, red wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar.); 1 tablespoon Sumac (Optional but recommended; can use zest of lime or lemon.); to taste Kosher Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 4 ears Corn (Fresh corn preferred; frozen fire-roasted corn can be used.); 2 medium Peaches (Nectarines can be used instead.); 1 cup Persian Cucumbers; 1/2 Jalapeño (Minced; omit for a milder salad.); 3/4 cup Greek Feta (Goat cheese or halloumi work well too.); 1 handful Fresh Basil (Can substitute with mint.)

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As summer rolls in, there’s nothing like the thrill of firing up the grill for fresh and vibrant dishes. This Grilled Corn Peach Salad with Feta and Sumac Dressing effortlessly embodies the season’s spirit, featuring juicy peaches that dance harmoniously with smoky, charred corn and crunchy cucumbers. Not only is this salad a quick recipe—ready in under 20 minutes—but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser that’s vegetarian and gluten-free. With a bright, tangy dressing that boosts every flavor, this dish is perfect for warm-weather gatherings or a refreshing weeknight dinner. Ready to give your palate a taste of summer bliss? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why is this salad a summer must-try?

Vibrancy: This Grilled Corn Peach Salad bursts with color, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Quick Prep: In just under 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious dish that impresses everyone at your table.

Unique Flavor Fusion: The sweet, juicy peaches and smoky corn create a delightful contrast, complemented by creamy feta and zesty sumac.

Versatile Options: Feel free to mix it up! Swap peaches with nectarines or add avocado for extra creaminess.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for barbecues or a simple weeknight dinner, this salad works well alongside grilled meats like Mediterranean Salmon Skewers or Chicken Shish Tawook.

Healthy & Refreshing: With just 143 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free choice that’s sure to leave you feeling great.

Grilled Corn Peach Salad Ingredients

• Brighten your summer meals with this Grilled Corn Peach Salad!

For the Dressing

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness to the dressing. Substitution: Can use another neutral oil.
Lemon Juice – Provides acidity and freshness. Substitution: Lime juice, red wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar can be used.
Sumac – Offers a tangy, citrus flavor. Note: Optional but recommended; can use zest of lime or lemon in a pinch.
Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor. Use to taste.
Black Pepper – Adds warmth and a hint of spice.

For the Salad

Corn – The star of the salad; grilled for a smoky flavor. Note: Fresh corn is preferred, but frozen fire-roasted corn can be used.
Peaches – Provide sweetness and juiciness. Substitution: Nectarines can be used instead.
Persian Cucumbers – Contribute crunch and freshness.
Jalapeño – Adds heat and flavor; minced for distribution. Substitution: Omit for a milder salad.
Greek Feta – Creamy and tangy for added richness. Substitution: Goat cheese or halloumi works well too.
Fresh Basil – Provides a fragrant herbal note. Use more or less to taste; can substitute with mint.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Corn Peach Salad

Step 1: Make the Salad Dressing
Begin by preparing the vibrant dressing for your Grilled Corn Peach Salad. In a small serving bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, the juice of one lemon, 1 tablespoon of sumac, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper to taste. The mixture should be well combined and silky, providing a zesty base for the salad.

Step 2: Grill the Corn
Next, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Place the husked corn cobs directly on the grill grates, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes until they become nicely charred and tender. Keep an eye out for caramelization—this smoky flavor will elevate your salad. Once finished, carefully remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly before slicing off the kernels.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
While the corn cools, chop your fresh ingredients for the salad. Slice 2 ripe peaches into wedges, dice 1 cup of Persian cucumbers, and finely mince half of a jalapeño (if using). Gather and crumble about ¾ cup of feta cheese and roughly chop a handful of fresh basil. Each of these components will add unique textures and flavors to your Grilled Corn Peach Salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Now it’s time to bring your Grilled Corn Peach Salad together! In the bowl containing your dressing, add the grilled corn kernels, sliced peaches, chopped cucumbers, minced jalapeño, crumbled feta, and chopped basil. The bowl should be colorful and inviting, as all the vibrant ingredients start to intermingle.

Step 5: Toss and Serve
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated in the dressing. This step brings out all the bright flavors. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed. Finally, garnish with additional jalapeño and basil for an extra pop of freshness before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Corn Peach Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can grill the corn and slice the kernels off the cob up to 24 hours in advance, storing the corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its smoky flavor. Additionally, you can chop the peaches, cucumbers, and jalapeño as well as crumble the feta and prepare the dressing up to 3 days ahead—just be cautious to keep the peaches airtight to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine all the prepped ingredients in a bowl, toss with the dressing, and enjoy a vibrant, delicious salad with minimal effort.

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Corn Peach Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad’s texture may soften, but the flavors will still be delightful.

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing the salad as the fresh ingredients, especially peaches and cucumbers, may lose their texture and quality upon thawing.

Reheating: Since this salad is served cold, simply enjoy it straight from the fridge for a refreshing bite. No reheating needed!

Tip: To keep the salad fresh longer, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving. This helps maintain the crispness of the vegetables in your Grilled Corn Peach Salad.

What to Serve with Grilled Corn Peach Salad?

Brighten your summer gatherings with a meal that truly sings with flavors and freshness, perfectly complementing the stunning salad.

Grilled Salmon Skewers: Juicy salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy feta and sweet peaches, making every bite a delight.
Mediterranean Chicken: Marinated and grilled chicken brings savory, herbaceous notes that enhance the salad’s vibrant elements.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light, fluffy quinoa flavored with herbs adds heartiness while remaining gluten-free, perfectly balancing the salad’s freshness.
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado toast gives a satisfying crunch, ideal to scoop up the refreshing salad, blending textures beautifully.
Crispy Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread is a delightful contrast to the cool salad, providing an inviting comfort.
Sparkling Lemonade: A citrusy drink adds to the bright flavors of the salad, keeping the atmosphere light and refreshing for your guests.
Ice Cream Sundae: Finish off your meal with a sweet treat! A rich sundae with fresh fruit echoes the peaches, delighting your sweet tooth.

Expert Tips for Grilled Corn Peach Salad

Fresh Ingredients: Always use the ripest peaches and corn for a flavorful salad. Avoid canned or frozen peaches, as their texture and taste differ significantly.
Corn Grilling: Don’t rush the grilling! Allow the corn to develop a nice char for maximum smoky flavor. Flip the cobs only when they show browning.
Sumac Substitute: If you can’t find sumac, lemon zest or a dash of lime juice can mimic its tangy flavor. However, aim to use sumac for authenticity.
Jalapeño Heat: Adjust the quantity or omit jalapeño if you’re sensitive to spice. This ensures everyone can enjoy the salad without being overwhelmed.
Make Ahead: Prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time—just wait to add the dressing until serving. This keeps the salad fresh and prevents sogginess.
Perfect Pairings: Enhance the experience by serving your Grilled Corn Peach Salad with grilled meats or a light seafood dish for a summery feast everyone will love.

Grilled Corn Peach Salad Variations

Feel free to personalize your Grilled Corn Peach Salad to suit your taste buds or dietary needs—it’s all about making it your own!

Dairy-Free: Swap out feta for avocado cream or use a dairy-free feta alternative to enjoy a creamy texture without dairy.
Heat Level Adjustments: If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the jalapeño. The salad is still deliciously bright without the added spice!
Fruit Swaps: Replace peaches with other seasonal fruits like nectarines or ripe cherries. The sweetness will shine through just as beautifully!
Added Creaminess: Fold in diced avocado for an extra layer of creaminess. It pairs perfectly with the smoky corn and bright flavor of the dressing.
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate grilled zucchini or bell peppers for a satisfying crunch and additional nutrients. These additions create a heartier salad that’s still light and refreshing.
Grain Addition: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro to turn this salad into a complete meal. The grains will absorb the dressing beautifully and provide a delightful texture.
Herbal Alternatives: Feeling adventurous with herbs? Swap basil for fresh mint or parsley to give the salad a refreshing twist that’ll complement the peaches’ sweetness.
Flavorful Dressings: For an extra zing, experiment with balsamic vinegar in place of lemon juice for a richer dressing experience. Pairing it with sumac gives depth without overpowering the dish.

Consider pairing this delightful creation with Mediterranean Salmon Skewers or Chicken Shish Tawook for a well-rounded summer feast!

Grilled Corn Peach Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best peaches for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy; they should have a sweet fragrance. Avoid peaches with dark spots or blemishes. If they’re not quite ripe, let them sit at room temperature for a few days until they reach the desired softness.

How should I store any leftover salad?
Very! Store the Grilled Corn Peach Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2 days for optimal flavor and freshness. While the taste remains delightful, the texture may soften. To keep it fresher longer, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.

Can I freeze the salad for later use?
I recommend against freezing this salad. Due to the fresh ingredients—especially peaches and cucumbers—their texture can become mushy once thawed. If you have extra grilled corn, however, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just remember to enjoy the fresh salad right away!

What should I do if my corn isn’t grilling properly?
If your corn isn’t getting that lovely char, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. Avoid flipping it too soon; let it grill for about 3-4 minutes per side. You can also check for those nice grill marks. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s well-sorted and fully thawed before grilling to avoid steaming rather than grilling.

Is this salad suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Grilled Corn Peach Salad is vegetarian and naturally gluten-free. If you have allergies, be cautious with feta cheese, as it can cause issues for those sensitive to dairy. Additionally, you can easily substitute with goat cheese or omit it entirely for a vegan option. Always check your specific dietary needs regarding each ingredient.

Can I add other ingredients to customize my salad?
Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. Feel free to swap peaches with nectarines, add diced avocado for creaminess, or incorporate grilled zucchini for added veggies. The more the merrier when it comes to flavors and textures!