Lachie Strachan’s recipe for Christmas Grilled Peach & Zucchini Salad

Lachie Strachan’s recipe for Christmas Grilled Peach & Zucchini Salad

This vibrant, smoky salad is packed with festive colours and fresh Flavors, making it a standout side for any Christmas BBQ.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8):

• For the grilled veggies & fruits:
  • 2 red capsicums, quartered and deseeded
  • 1 yellow capsicum, quartered and deseeded
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthways into thin strips
  • 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1cm rounds
  • 2 peaches or nectarines, halved and pitted
  • Olive oil spray
• For the salad base:
  • 2 cups fresh rocket (arugula)
  • 1 cup baby spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts
• For the dressing:
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt & pepper to taste
• Optional toppings:
  • 100g crumbled feta or goat cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves

Method

1. Prepare your BBQ/grill:
   Preheat to medium-high heat. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Grill the veggies & fruit:
   • Lightly spray the capsicums, zucchini, eggplant, and peach halves with olive oil.
   • Grill the capsicums, zucchini, and eggplant until tender and slightly charred (about 3-5 minutes per side).
   • Grill the peaches cut-side down for 2-3 minutes or until grill marks form. Set everything aside to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the salad:
   • Slice the grilled capsicums into strips and the peaches into wedges.
   • On a large serving platter, layer the rocket and spinach leaves as the base.
   • Top with the grilled veggies and peach slices.
4. Add festive toppings:
   • Sprinkle over the pomegranate seeds and toasted pine nuts.
   • Crumble the feta or goat cheese on top if using.
5. Make the dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
6. Serve & enjoy:
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves for extra flavour.
   • Pair with your Christmas BBQ mains and enjoy this fresh, grilled delight!

Lachie’s Tip: “This salad is all about balance—don’t over-char the fruits and veggies. The natural sweetness of the peaches and the pop of pomegranate seeds create that perfect festive harmony on your plate!”