Summer Peach & Burrata Salad with Mint & Balsamic Glaze

 

Celebrate peach season with this Summer Peach & Burrata Salad with Mint & Balsamic Glaze. Sweet ripe peaches, creamy burrata, peppery arugula, fresh mint, and a drizzle of balsamic come together in a light, refreshing salad that's perfect for lunch or a summer dinner.

Summer Peach & Burrata Salad with Mint & Balsamic Glaze

Stone fruit season is one of my favorite times of the year. As soon as peaches start showing up at the farmers market and grocery store, I can't wait to bring them home and find new ways to enjoy them beyond dessert. Whether they're tucked into breakfast, paired with grilled meats, or layered into fresh salads, there's just something about ripe summer peaches that makes every meal feel a little more special.

I'll admit, I had to convince my husband to give this one a try. He's definitely more of a savory kind of guy and has never been the biggest fan of fruit in his salads. But after one bite, he was completely on board. Maybe it was the rich, creamy burrata, the subtle peppery bite of the arugula, or the way the sweet peaches balanced everything so beautifully. Whatever the reason, this salad quickly earned a spot on our list of summer favorites.

We love enjoying fresh salads like this for a leisurely lunch or serving them alongside grilled chicken, steak, or seafood for an easy summer dinner. The combination of juicy peaches, creamy burrata, crisp greens, fresh mint, and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze feels elegant without being complicated, making it just as perfect for entertaining as it is for a quiet meal at home.

As long as peaches are in season, this Summer Peach & Burrata Salad with Mint & Balsamic Glaze will be on repeat in our kitchen. It's fresh, colorful, and one of those recipes that reminds me just how delicious simple, seasonal ingredients can be.

-- Ingredients

One of the best things about this salad is that every ingredient has a purpose. Sweet, juicy peaches are balanced by peppery arugula, creamy burrata, fresh mint, and a drizzle of good olive oil. The result is a salad that's simple, elegant, and full of fresh summer flavor.

Salad Greens

• Green leaf lettuce
• Arugula

Fresh Produce

• Ripe peaches
• Red onion
• Fresh mint

Dairy

• Burrata cheese

Finishing Touches

• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Flaky sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Balsamic glaze (served on the side)

-- Equipment

You won't need anything fancy for this salad—just a few kitchen basics and quality serving pieces that let the fresh ingredients shine.

You'll Need

• Large salad bowl or serving platter
• Sharp chef's knife
• Cutting board
• Small serving bowl or bottle for the balsamic glaze
• Salad tongs or serving spoons

My Go-To's

These are a few kitchen staples I reach for whenever I'm building fresh seasonal salads.

• Medium Serving Platter – Perfect for building salads with creamy burrata cheese so it doesn't sink to the bottom.
• Chef's Knife – A sharp knife makes clean slices through ripe peaches and delicate burrata.
• Olive Oil Cruet – Makes it easy to drizzle just the right amount of extra-virgin olive oil over the finished salad.

-- Let's Make It Together

Start by arranging the green leaf lettuce and arugula in a large serving bowl or on a wide platter. Using mostly green leaf lettuce with just enough arugula creates the perfect balance—the greens stay light and crisp while the arugula adds just a subtle peppery bite.

Nestle the sliced peaches throughout the greens, followed by the thin slices of red onion. Tear the burrata into generous pieces and place it around the salad so every serving gets a little of its creamy goodness.

Scatter the torn mint leaves over the top, then finish with flaky sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a generous drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.

Transfer the balsamic glaze to a small serving dish or bottle and place it on the table so everyone can drizzle their own. Since balsamic glaze has a bold, concentrated flavor, serving it on the side lets each person find the balance they enjoy most.

Serve immediately while the peaches are at their juiciest and the burrata is wonderfully creamy.

-- Perfecting the Salad

The best salads start with the best ingredients, and this one is no exception. Choose peaches that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch—they should be ripe but still hold their shape when sliced.

Using mostly green leaf lettuce with a smaller amount of arugula keeps the peppery flavor from overwhelming the sweetness of the peaches. And don't skip the flaky salt. Just a small sprinkle enhances both the fruit and the creamy burrata in a surprising way.

Finally, allow the burrata to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Its creamy center will be softer and even more luxurious.

-- Add Your Touch

This salad is easy to customize depending on what's in season or what you have on hand.

• Add toasted pistachios or pecans for extra crunch.
• Top with grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• Substitute nectarines for the peaches.
• Add prosciutto for a sweet-and-savory twist.
• Finish with a sprinkle of cracked pink peppercorns for color and gentle spice.

Set the Mood

Meals taste even better when the table feels inviting. Here are a few simple ways to set the mood for this recipe.

More Fresh Summer Favorites

If you're making the most of summer produce, here are a few more seasonal recipes to enjoy while the markets are overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables:

• Mediterranean Summer Squash & Pinto Bean Skillet with Toasted Sourdough
• Caramelized Zucchini with Whipped Feta, Pistachios & Mint
• Creamy Summer Labneh with Peaches, Pistachios & Prosciutto
• Marinated Cherry Tomatoes and Angle Hair Pasta
• Citrusy Garlic Steak with Fresh Mango Salsa

These recipes celebrate simple ingredients, vibrant flavors, and the joy of gathering around the table during the best days of summer.

Before You Start

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance, but wait to assemble the salad until just before serving to keep the greens crisp and the peaches fresh.

What if I can't find burrata?
Fresh mozzarella or goat cheese make a wonderful substitute, although burrata's creamy center gives the salad its signature richness.

Should I peel the peaches?
No. The skin adds beautiful color, texture, and helps the slices hold their shape.

Why serve the balsamic glaze on the side?
Balsamic glaze has a rich, concentrated sweetness, and everyone's preference is different. Serving it at the table allows each person to add just the amount they enjoy without overwhelming the delicate balance of the salad.

5-Ingredient Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes)

 

Make this 5-Ingredient Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad in just 20 minutes! The seventh recipe in my 5-Ingredient Meal Series features grilled halloumi, fresh spinach, cucumber, olives, and Greek vinaigrette for an easy lunch or flavorful side dish.

5-Ingredient Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes)

Some of my favorite recipes are the ones that prove you don't need a long ingredient list to make something fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor. This 5-Ingredient Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes) is one of those recipes. With golden grilled halloumi, fresh baby spinach, crisp English cucumber, briny Kalamata olives, and a bottled Greek vinaigrette, you can have a beautiful salad on the table with very little effort.

I'm excited to share that this recipe is the seventh installment in my 5-Ingredient Meal Series, where every recipe is built around just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients and comes together in 30 minutes or less. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, an easy side dish for grilled meats, or a simple way to add more fresh flavors to your week, this salad is a wonderful reminder that less really can be more.

The grilled halloumi is the star of the show, developing a warm, golden crust while staying deliciously soft inside. Paired with crisp vegetables and a tangy Greek vinaigrette, every bite is packed with texture and bold flavor, making this an easy recipe you'll find yourself coming back to again and again.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• Baby Spinach - Fresh baby spinach creates the perfect crisp, tender base for this simple salad.

• Halloumi Cheese - Use a block of halloumi and slice it into ½-inch strips before grilling.

• English Cucumber - Adds fresh crunch and balances the richness of the grilled cheese.

• Kalamata Olives - Their briny flavor complements the halloumi and Greek vinaigrette beautifully.

• Greek Vinaigrette - A good bottled Greek vinaigrette keeps this recipe quick while adding plenty of tangy flavor.

-- Equipment

You only need a handful of items to make this salad.  Here are my favorites.

(My Go-To's)

• Non-stick skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Large salad bowl
• Tongs

-- Let's Make It Together

1. Slice the halloumi.
2. Grill until golden on both sides.
3. Add spinach, cucumber, and olives to a large bowl.
4. Top with grilled halloumi.
5. Season with pepper and drizzle with vinaigrette.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

Halloumi browns best in a hot, dry non-stick skillet, so there's no need to add oil. Resist moving the cheese too soon—letting it cook undisturbed for several minutes creates that delicious golden crust while keeping the inside soft and chewy.

-- Add Your Touch

A great thing about salad is that you can make them your own.  Add in what you like.  Here are some ideas:

• Add cherry tomatoes.
• Toss in chickpeas.
• Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.
• Add fresh dill or parsley.
• Finish with a squeeze of lemon.

Set the Mood

Food is about more than just the recipe—it’s about the moment around the table. Here are a few simple ideas to set the mood when you serve this dish.

More Fresh Salads to Enjoy

If this grilled halloumi spinach salad hit the spot, I've got plenty more fresh and flavorful salads waiting for you. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, an easy side dish, or a salad hearty enough for dinner, these recipes are perfect for adding more fresh ingredients to your table.

Chicken Quinoa Salad with Spicy Cashews & Ginger Lime Dressing

Easy Taco Salad

Warm Roasted Sweet Potato & White Bean Salad

Country Chophouse Chicken Salad with Garden-Fresh Buttermilk Dressing

Nectarine & Feta Salad with Toasted Almonds

Explore the 5-Ingredient Meal Series

One of my favorite ways to simplify cooking is by proving that you don't need a long shopping list to make something delicious. This Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad is the seventh recipe in my 5-Ingredient Meal Series, where every recipe uses just five simple ingredients and comes together in 30 minutes or less.

If you've enjoyed this recipe, I'd love for you to explore the rest of the series. You might just discover your next favorite easy meal!

     5-Ingredient Meal Series     

5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Juicy grilled steak paired with Southwestern-style salad kit, black beans, avocado, and bell peppers.

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Mini farfalle pasta tossed with Caesar salad kit, salami, pepperoncini, red onion, and Parmesan-crouton topping.

5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Crisp kohlrabi and cabbage with a zesty chili-peanut dressing, lime, and cilantro — perfect for a refreshing side.

5-Ingredient Zucchini Ribbon Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes!) -Fresh zucchini ribbons with cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta tossed in a za’atar vinaigrette.

Easy Teriyaki Chicken Mandarin Orange Salad (5 Ingredients, 30 Minutes) — A quick, flavor-packed salad with crunchy ramen noodles, edamame, and a bright Asian-style dressing.

5-Ingredient Steak Salad for Two (Steakhouse Style in 30 Minutes) — A shortcut steakhouse-inspired salad with juicy seared steak, crisp greens, and bold flavor.

Before You Start

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can wash the spinach, slice the cucumber, and cook the halloumi ahead of time. For the freshest texture, store the ingredients separately and drizzle the Greek vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.

What is halloumi cheese?
Halloumi is a semi-firm cheese traditionally made in Cyprus. Its high melting point allows it to develop a delicious golden crust when grilled while staying soft and chewy inside, making it perfect for salads like this one.

Do I need to use a non-stick skillet?
A non-stick skillet works best because it helps the halloumi brown evenly and release easily once it's ready to flip. There's no need to add oil to the pan.

Can I serve this as a main dish?
Absolutely! This salad makes a satisfying light lunch on its own. To make it a heartier dinner, pair it with warm pita bread or add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

Can I substitute another cheese?
Halloumi is what makes this recipe unique because it holds its shape when cooked. If you can't find it, grilled paneer is the closest substitute, although the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

5 Delicious Ways I’m Using Alouette Spinach & Artichoke Cheese (Beyond the Dip Bowl)

 

Looking for creative ways to use spinach & artichoke cheese spread? These 5 easy recipes include pasta, crostini, chicken, breakfast toast, and a puff pastry tart.

Some grocery finds don’t stay in the “snack” category for long. The moment I brought home Alouette Spinach & Artichoke Spread, I realized it wasn’t just something to put out with crackers—it’s more like a shortcut ingredient that quietly turns into dinners, breakfasts, and easy entertaining food.

It’s creamy, savory, a little tangy, and already layered with herbs and artichoke flavor, which makes it incredibly versatile when you treat it like a base rather than a dip.

These are the five ways I’ve been using it lately—each one simple, seasonal, and very much in the “looks like effort, but isn’t” category.

Over the next several weeks, I'll be sharing each recipe in full--think of this post as the inspiration board to kick off the series.

1. Roasted Tomato & Spinach Artichoke Crostini

Crisp toasted baguette, creamy spinach artichoke spread, and blistered roasted cherry tomatoes come together in the easiest appetizer that still feels intentional.

Roasting the tomatoes first is key—it concentrates their sweetness and gives the crostini a warm, almost jammy contrast against the creamy cheese base. A little basil or balsamic at the end makes it feel finished.

Perfect for: quick entertaining, wine nights, or a low-effort appetizer board.

2. Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta with Lemon & Peas

This is one of those weeknight pastas that feels like it should take more steps than it does.

The cheese spread melts into a silky sauce with a splash of pasta water, while lemon brightens everything and peas add a pop of sweetness and texture. It’s rich but not heavy, which makes it ideal for spring and early summer dinners.

Perfect for: busy nights when you still want something comforting but fresh.

3. Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken with Garlic Butter Pan Sauce

This one leans a little more dinner-party without actually requiring dinner-party effort.

The cheese spread becomes a built-in filling for juicy chicken breasts, melting as they bake into something creamy and flavorful. A quick pan sauce with garlic, butter, and lemon pulls everything together and makes it feel restaurant-level with almost no extra work.

Perfect for: easy entertaining or a “special but simple” weeknight dinner.

4. Spinach Artichoke Breakfast Toast with Soft Eggs

This is the kind of breakfast that feels like café food at home.

Warm sourdough gets a generous layer of spinach artichoke spread, then soft eggs are added on top so the yolk runs into the creamy base. Fresh herbs and a pinch of chili flakes bring everything into balance.

Perfect for: slow mornings, brunch at home, or a savory breakfast upgrade.

5. Puff Pastry Tart with Heirloom Tomatoes, Zucchini & Leeks

This one is my favorite “impressive but easy” use.

A sheet of puff pastry becomes the base, spread with spinach artichoke cheese, then layered with sautéed leeks, zucchini, and juicy heirloom tomatoes. As it bakes, everything softens and caramelizes into a rustic tart that looks far more complicated than it is.

Perfect for: brunch, light dinners, or serving with a salad and wine.

Why this ingredient works so well

What I like most about this ingredient is that it doesn’t disappear in recipes—it actually anchors them. Instead of building flavor from scratch every time, you’re starting with something already seasoned and letting it guide the dish.

That means:

• faster weeknight cooking
• easier entertaining
• and more flexibility with seasonal produce

The Bigger Idea

This is the kind of cooking I keep coming back to right now: simple ingredients that quietly do a lot of the work for you, so you can focus on freshness, texture, and how everything comes together on the plate.

I'll be sharing each recipe over the next several Tuesdays.

UPDATE: Several full recipes from this series are now live — 

If these ideas from the roundup caught your eye, you can now get the full recipe and step-by-step instructions here.  

Roasted Tomato & Spinach Artichoke Crostini. 

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Pasta with Lemon & Peas

Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken with Garlic Butter Pan Sauce

Spinach Artichoke Breakfast Toast with Soft Eggs

Enjoy!

Easy Taco Salad (Fresh, Flavorful + Customizable)

 

This easy taco salad recipe is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for a crowd. Built using my 5-part everyday salad formula, it’s a simple, customizable dish for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight meals.

Easy Taco Salad (Fresh, Flavorful + Customizable)

This taco salad is one of those recipes that has stood the test of time in my kitchen. I first had a version of it at one of our monthly work potlucks years ago, and I’ve been making my own variation ever since.

It’s everything you want in a go-to meal—fresh ingredients, bold flavor, and plenty of texture. The crisp cabbage holds up especially well, which makes it perfect not only for serving a crowd, but also for meal prep during the week.

What I love most is how naturally it fits into my 5-Part Everyday Healthy Salad Formula—a simple way to build satisfying salads using greens, color, crunch, protein, and dressing. Once you see it this way, it becomes less about following a strict recipe and more about creating something flexible and delicious with what you have.

And with spring here and outdoor gatherings starting up, this is exactly the kind of dish you want in your back pocket. It’s easy to scale, travels well, and always disappears quickly at potlucks, picnics, and casual get-togethers.

To make it even better, I’ve included my homemade taco seasoning along with two homemade dressing options—a classic Catalina and a fresh, creamy cilantro avocado—so you can make it exactly the way you like it.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• Green cabbage, chopped
• Ground beef
• 1 batch taco seasoning (see recipe below or use store-bought)
• Cherry tomatoes, chopped
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Corn - fire roasted or sweet corn
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Catalina dressing or cilantro avocado dressing (see options below)

The 5-Part Salad Formula (Build It Your Way)

This taco salad is a perfect example of how a simple formula can turn everyday ingredients into something really satisfying. Once you understand the structure, you can build endless variations using what you already have on hand.

The Formula (using this Taco Salad as an example)

1. Greens - Crisp green cabbage 

2. Color - Cherry tomatoes, red kidney beans, and corn 

3. Crunch - Crushed tortilla chips 

4. Protein - Seasoned ground beef 

5. Dressing - Catalina dressing (classic sweet-tangy) or cilantro avocado yogurt dressing (fresh and creamy)

Once you start using this formula, you’ll find yourself building salads without even thinking about a recipe.

If you love this approach, check out my guide on How to Build a Healthy Salad Without a Recipe (My 5 Part Formula) where I break down how to build endless combinations.

-- Let's Make It Together

1. Cook ground beef sprinkled with the taco seasoning (see below for recipe), in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
2. Let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine:
   • Chopped cabbage
   • Chopped tomatoes
   • Drained and rinsed beans
   • Shredded cheese
4. Add seasoned beef and toss lightly.
5. Top with crushed tortilla chips. (I also added avocado)
6. Drizzle with dressing just before serving. (Use your favorite dressing or choose one of my homemade dressings below.)

-- Choose Your Dressing

This salad works beautifully with either dressing—each one completely changes the personality of the dish.

🍅 Homemade Catalina Dressing

Sweet, tangy, and nostalgic in the best way. This is the classic taco salad flavor most people grew up with. It adds richness, a little sweetness, and ties everything together into that familiar “diner-style” salad experience.

🥑 Cilantro Avocado Yogurt Dressing

Fresh, creamy, and slightly lighter with a bright lime finish. This version leans more modern and herb-forward, adding a cooling contrast to the seasoned beef and crunchy cabbage.

Both dressing recipes are located just above the recipe card below.

👉 Tip: Always serve the dressing on the side if you’re making this for potlucks, gatherings, or meal prep. It keeps everything crisp and allows everyone to build their bowl exactly how they like it.

-- The Cleanout Angle 

This is one of those recipes that naturally works as a “clean out the fridge” meal without ever feeling like leftovers.

The base stays the same, but everything else is flexible depending on what you have on hand:

• Swap cabbage → romaine, iceberg, or mixed greens
• Swap ground beef → ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles
• Add extras → corn, avocado, bell peppers, jalapeños, or shredded carrots
• Change the crunch → tortilla strips, crushed chips, or toasted seeds

👉 It’s flexible by design, which means it works just as well for planned dinners as it does for last-minute “what’s in the fridge” meals.

-- Add Your Touch

• Add sliced avocado or shredded carrots
• Sprinkle with fresh cilantro
• Squeeze of lime for brightness
• Swap out the beans for pinto, black, or even garbanzo
• Add cucumber, jicama, or bell peppers

-- Perfect For...

This taco salad isn’t just a meal—it’s a reliable go-to for busy weeks, gatherings, and everything in between. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to whenever you need something easy, filling, and crowd-pleasing.

• Potlucks and gatherings where you need something that holds up well
• Picnics and outdoor meals that travel easily and stay fresh
• Feeding a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen
• Easy weeknight dinners that come together fast
• Meal prep lunches that actually keep you excited to eat them

If you’re loving easy salads right now, you might also enjoy a few more of my favorites—

• Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta & Walnuts
• Warm Roasted Sweet Potato & White Bean Salad
• Grilled Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad (A 30-Minute Spin on a Classic)
• Everyday Garden Salad

Before You Start

Can I make this taco salad ahead of time?

Yes—just keep the dressing and chips separate until serving so everything stays crisp.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well.

What can I use instead of cabbage?

Romaine or iceberg lettuce are great substitutes if you prefer a lighter base.

Do I have to use homemade dressing?

Not at all—store-bought works fine, but homemade adds a fresher, more flavorful touch.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Add dressing and chips just before serving, or serve them on the side.

Can I make this for a crowd?

Yes! This recipe scales easily and is perfect for gatherings or potlucks.

Homemade Taco Seasoning

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.

Homemade Catalina Dressing

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/3–1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a bowl or jar, whisk together ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
2. Slowly drizzle in oil while whisking to emulsify.
3. Add spices and mix well.
4. Taste and adjust as needed.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cilantro Avocado Yogurt Dressing

Ingredients

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (packed)
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small garlic clove
• 1/2 tsp salt (more to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1–3 tbsp water (to thin)

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add water as needed to reach desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Chill for 20–30 minutes before serving.