If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that’s bursting with summer flavors, the Peach Caprese Salad with Grilled Corn and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad beautifully combines juicy peaches, sweet grilled corn, ripe heirloom tomatoes, and creamy fresh mozzarella, all brought together with fragrant basil and a luscious balsamic glaze. It’s a celebration of colorful, seasonal ingredients that hits all the right notes — sweet, savory, tangy, and refreshingly light. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a simple yet stunning salad, this recipe will quickly become a beloved go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peach Caprese Salad with Grilled Corn and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is made with straightforward ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays a key role, whether adding texture, flavor, or color to make the salad feel like a summery masterpiece.
- Sweet Corn (2 ears, sliced): Grilled to caramelized perfection for a smoky sweetness that complements the fruit and cheese.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp, plus more for drizzling): Adds richness and helps bring out the flavors when sautéing the corn and finishing the salad.
- Heirloom Tomatoes (2, sliced): Their vibrant colors and juicy texture add freshness and acidity.
- Yellow Peaches (3-4): The stars of the dish, these provide juicy sweetness and a soft bite.
- Fresh Mozzarella (8 oz, sliced): Creamy and mild, it balances the sweetness with a smooth, melty texture.
- Basil Leaves (1/2 cup): Adds an herby aroma and peppery brightness that lifts all the flavors.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient perfectly.
- Balsamic Vinegar (1 cup): Reduced to a glaze, it adds tangy depth and a subtle touch of sweetness.
- Honey (1 tbsp): Sweetens the balsamic glaze naturally and balances the acidity.
How to Make Peach Caprese Salad with Grilled Corn and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Corn
Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sweet corn and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Let it cook undisturbed for about five minutes until the corn kernels develop a lovely golden-brown color and a slightly smoky aroma. This quick sauté brings out the corn’s natural sugars, giving your salad an irresistible sweetness and crunch.
Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze
While the corn cools, combine one cup of balsamic vinegar and a tablespoon of honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for around 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for it to reduce by half and thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon. Once done, set it aside to cool — this glaze will add a luscious, tangy finish to your salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad Layers
Now for the fun part — layering! On a large serving platter, arrange alternating slices of juicy peaches, vibrant heirloom tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. Tuck fresh basil leaves in between for bursts of green and herbal freshness. Scatter the sautéed grilled corn over the top, drizzle everything generously with extra virgin olive oil and your homemade balsamic glaze. Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper for that perfect seasoning pop.
How to Serve Peach Caprese Salad with Grilled Corn and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this salad even further, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crushed pistachios for a delightful crunch. A few microgreens or edible flowers also make a beautiful, fresh garnish that adds an elegant touch and a hint of extra color.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a standout side to grilled chicken, fish, or even a light pasta. Pair it with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious balsamic glaze. It’s also fantastic alongside a chilled glass of crisp rosé or your favorite white wine for a perfect summer meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this salad layered in individual glass jars or mason jars at a picnic or party. You can also turn it into a stacked salad on a plate to impress guests with its colorful layers. Another idea is to use endive or small lettuce leaves as little scoops, turning each bite into a delightful finger food experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Peach Caprese Salad with Grilled Corn and Balsamic Glaze Recipe is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the balsamic glaze separate if you plan to store it, and drizzle just before serving to avoid soggy fruit and cheese.
Freezing
Because this salad is made with fresh fruit and cheese, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavors won’t hold up well once thawed, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh or within a couple of days.
Reheating
Reheating is not necessary for this salad since it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If you want to slightly warm the corn, you can gently reheat it in a skillet before adding it to fresh ingredients, but otherwise, enjoy the cool, crisp textures as intended.
FAQs
Can I use other types of peaches in this Peach Caprese Salad with Grilled Corn and Balsamic Glaze Recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow peaches are sweet and juicy, white peaches or even nectarines can work wonderfully. Just choose ripe, fragrant fruit for the best flavor.
Is there a substitute for fresh mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, burrata or a mild fresh cheese like queso fresco can be used. They both offer a creamy texture that complements the salad beautifully.
Can I prepare the balsamic glaze ahead of time?
Yes! The balsamic glaze can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before drizzling if it thickens too much.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply swap the fresh mozzarella for a plant-based cheese alternative or marinated tofu. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
What’s the best way to grill corn for this recipe?
While this recipe sautés the corn, grilling on a hot grill until charred spots form adds an extra smoky flavor. Just slice off the kernels once cooled and proceed as directed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the Peach Caprese Salad with Grilled Corn and Balsamic Glaze Recipe that makes it perfect for any summer occasion. Its vibrant colors, balance of sweet and savory, and simple preparation make it one of those dishes you’ll want to share over and over again. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and savor every luscious bite!
PrintPeach Caprese Salad with Grilled Corn and Balsamic Glaze Recipe
This Peach Caprese Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian Caprese, incorporating sweet sautéed corn and juicy yellow peaches alongside heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Finished with a homemade honey-balsamic glaze and a drizzle of olive oil, this vibrant salad offers a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and tang. It’s easy to prepare in about 25 minutes and serves as a stunning appetizer or light meal for four.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 ears Sweet Corn, sliced
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (plus more for drizzling on top)
- 2 Heirloom Tomatoes, sliced
- 3–4 Yellow Peaches, sliced
- 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella, sliced
- 1/2 cup Basil Leaves
- Kosher Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, to taste
Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Honey
Instructions
- Saute the corn: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Add the sliced sweet corn, season with kosher salt and black pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes until the corn turns golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside to cool.
- Make the balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes until it reduces and thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the salad: On a serving platter, layer the sliced peaches, heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Sprinkle the sautéed corn evenly on top. Drizzle with additional olive oil and the cooled balsamic glaze. Finish by seasoning with a dash of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Notes
- Use ripe peaches and heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor combination.
- The balsamic glaze can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week; just rewarm gently before using.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute mozzarella with a vegan cheese or omit it entirely.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be chilled for 30 minutes before serving for a cooler, refreshing option.
