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.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad (Fresh & Flavorful)

 

This Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is fresh, colorful, and full of bright flavor. Made with crisp vegetables, chickpeas, quinoa, and a lemon herb dressing, it’s the perfect healthy summer salad for meal prep, cookouts, or easy lunches.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad (Fresh & Flavorful)

This is the kind of salad that disappears fast at summer gatherings.

It’s bright, colorful, fresh, and somehow manages to feel both light and satisfying at the same time. The quinoa gives it heartiness, the vegetables keep it crisp and refreshing, and the lemon herb dressing pulls everything together with bold fresh flavor.

I especially love this recipe because it works for almost everything—meal prep lunches, backyard dinners, cookouts, or as an easy side dish alongside grilled chicken or kabobs. It’s one of those versatile recipes that tastes even better after it sits for a little while, making it perfect for warm weather entertaining.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• Quinoa — adds protein, texture, and makes the salad extra satisfying
• Red bell pepper — brings sweetness and beautiful color
• English cucumber — crisp, refreshing, and perfect for summer salads
• Grape tomatoes — juicy bursts of freshness throughout the salad
• Red onion — adds sharpness and balance
• Chickpeas — hearty, filling, and packed with texture
• Olive oil — forms the rich base of the dressing
• Fresh lemon juice — keeps everything bright and fresh
• Red wine vinegar — adds tang and depth
• Fresh parsley — gives the salad a vibrant Mediterranean flavor
• Garlic — adds bold savory flavor to the dressing
• Salt — helps bring all the flavors together

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board and knife
• Small whisk or fork for dressing

My Go-To Tools

• Fine Mesh Strainer — perfect for rinsing quinoa well
• Large Glass Mixing Bowl — makes tossing salads easier without crushing ingredients

-- Let’s Make It Together

Rinse the quinoa well and cook according to package directions. Let cool slightly while preparing the vegetables.

Dice the bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion, then halve the tomatoes.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, parsley, garlic, and salt.

Add the quinoa, vegetables, and chickpeas to a large bowl. Pour over the dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Serve immediately or chill for a bit to let the flavors blend together.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The biggest key to great quinoa salad is texture. Rinsing the quinoa well removes bitterness, while allowing it to cool slightly before mixing helps keep the vegetables crisp and fresh instead of softening them.

-- Add Your Touch

This salad is incredibly flexible depending on the season or what you have in the fridge.

Add feta cheese for a creamy salty bite, avocado for richness, or grilled chicken for extra protein. Fresh herbs like basil or dill also work beautifully if you want to change the flavor profile slightly.

Set the Mood 

A good meal deserves a great setting. Here are a few easy ways to set the mood when serving this dish.

If you’re building an easy summer menu, these recipes pair perfectly with this Mediterranean quinoa salad:

• Chili-Lime Chicken Kabobs — bold, smoky, and fresh off the grill
• Easy Greek-Style Turkey Burgers — Quick and easy and bursting with flavor
• Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce — zesty topped tender grilled steak
• Gaucho Beef Kabobs — easy, flavorful, and packed with Latin flavors

Whether you’re meal prepping lunches for the week or planning a backyard dinner with friends, this salad is one of those fresh summer recipes you’ll come back to again and again.

Before You Start 

Do I need to rinse quinoa first?
Yes. Rinsing removes the natural coating that can taste bitter.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.

How long does it keep?
Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add protein?
Yes. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon work wonderfully.

Can I serve this warm?
You can, but it’s best slightly chilled or at room temperature for the freshest flavor.

 

 

Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta & Walnuts (Easy Spring Salad)

 

A fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with feta, walnuts, and raspberry vinaigrette. This bright and easy salad is perfect for spring lunches, brunches, or a light side dish.

Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta & Walnuts (Easy Spring Salad)

When March rolls around and strawberries start showing up bright and sweet at the grocery store, I immediately start thinking about salads like this one. There’s something about the combination of fresh berries and tender greens that just feels like spring on a plate.

This Strawberry Spinach Salad has become one of my favorite quick salads to put together when I want something light but still flavorful. The sweet strawberries, creamy feta, and crunchy walnuts create the perfect balance of textures, while my new addition of a raspberry vinaigrette ties everything together with a little tangy brightness.

It’s simple, beautiful, and comes together in just minutes — the kind of salad that works just as well for a casual lunch as it does for serving alongside dinner such as my Crispy Smash Burgers with American Cheese.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

Fresh baby spinach forms the base of this salad. Its mild flavor pairs perfectly with sweet fruit.

Strawberries add color, natural sweetness, and juiciness to the salad.

Crumbled feta cheese brings a creamy, slightly salty contrast that balances the sweetness of the berries.

Chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch and a slightly earthy flavor.

Lite raspberry vinaigrette ties everything together with a bright, tangy finish.

A little freshly ground black pepper is optional but adds a subtle depth to the finished salad.

-- Let’s Make It Together

Start by placing the baby spinach in a large salad bowl and gently fluffing the leaves so they separate.

Add the sliced strawberries over the top, followed by the crumbled feta and chopped walnuts.

Drizzle some of the raspberry vinaigrette over the salad, starting with about half the dressing.

Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are lightly coated.

Add a little more dressing if needed, then finish with freshly ground black pepper if you like. Serve right away while the greens are fresh and crisp.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to a great salad like this is adding the dressing just before serving. Spinach is delicate, and tossing it too early can cause the leaves to soften and lose their freshness. Waiting until the last minute keeps the greens vibrant and gives the salad that light, crisp texture that makes it so refreshing.

-- Add Your Touch

This salad is easy to customize depending on what you have on hand.

Swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds, or candied nuts for a slightly sweeter twist. Goat cheese works beautifully in place of feta if you prefer a creamier flavor.

If you want to turn this into a heartier meal, try adding grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even a scoop of quinoa for extra protein.

You can also mix in a handful of blueberries or raspberries to make the salad even more colorful.

If you enjoy fresh, bright salads like this one, there are plenty more seasonal favorites to explore. Light salads are one of my favorite ways to bring simple ingredients together while keeping meals feeling fresh and balanced.

You might also enjoy:

• Fresh Asparagus Salad with Oranges & Feta
• Spring Couscous Salad with Lemon Feta Vinaigrette
• Fresh Ribbon Salad with Lemon Pesto Vinaigrette
• Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Yogurt Dressing

Each one brings its own bright flavors and makes a wonderful addition to lunch, brunch, or dinner.

Set the Mood

If you'd like to create a whole atmosphere around eating this delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad take a look at my tips below.  Food and drink pairings, table settings, and music are all included.

Before You Start

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but wait to add the dressing until just before serving.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries work best because they hold their shape and texture.

What other greens work well here?
Arugula or a spring mix are both great alternatives if you don’t have spinach.

Can I make this a main dish?
Yes. Adding grilled chicken or salmon turns this into a satisfying entrée salad.