Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or craving something fresh with a kick, this grilled peach salsa delivers smoky sweetness in every bite. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make this juicy, slightly spicy salsa that balances summer fruit with a tangy, savory twist. From my kitchen to yours, let’s get grilling!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Grilled Peach Salsa Is My Go-To for Summer Gatherings
The Recipe That Started With Backyard Peaches
Hi there, and welcome to Frosty Recipes! I’m Emily Frost, a busy mom of two and passionate home cook who loves turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. Grilled peach salsa first made its way into my kitchen on a humid July evening when I had a few overripe peaches on the counter and a hot grill already fired up. Instead of tossing them in a cobbler (again), I gave them a quick sear, and that charred sweetness completely transformed them.
When I added tomatoes, jalapeños, and a little vinegar, the result was an explosion of smoky, sweet, tangy flavor—one that instantly became a family favorite. My kids now request it every taco night, and my husband spoons it over grilled chicken like it’s barbecue sauce. Trust me, once you try this grilled peach salsa, you’ll never want the store-bought kind again.
We’ve made versions of this to go with all kinds of dishes—like grilled peach chicken salad and even as a topping for simple peach arugula salad. The sweetness of peaches pairs beautifully with heat, herbs, and acidity, making this salsa incredibly versatile and exciting.
What Makes Grilled Peach Salsa So Unique?
At its core, this salsa is about balance. Grilling the peaches caramelizes their natural sugars and adds a smokiness you just can’t get from raw fruit. Add in fresh Roma and cherry tomatoes for acidity, jalapeños for heat, and brown sugar to round it all out. A dash of apple cider vinegar and lemon juice brightens everything up while olive oil smooths out the texture.
And the best part? It’s completely make-ahead friendly. Letting it chill in the fridge gives it time to develop even more flavor. That’s one reason I love making it in big batches before a party—it actually tastes better the next day!
This salsa is a perfect complement to grilled proteins or summer grain bowls, and you’ll find it makes a surprising pair with dishes like peach quinoa salad or even peach and burrata salad. And if you love fruity twists on traditional sauces, don’t miss our spicy peach salsa recipe, too.
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Grilled Peach Salsa Recipe
Smoky, sweet, and vibrant—this grilled peach salsa is perfect for chips, tacos, or grilled proteins. Packed with summer flavor and made with fresh, charred peaches.
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
Ingredients
3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
6 ripe Roma tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 sweet onion, medium sized
1 jalapeño, halved and seeded
2 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons brown sugar, plus more for sprinkling
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium heat.
2. Brush peaches, Roma tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño with olive oil. Sprinkle brown sugar on peaches.
3. Grill peaches and onion 4–5 minutes per side. Grill tomatoes and jalapeño 3–4 minutes per side. Let cool.
4. Place cherry tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper into food processor. Blend 10 seconds.
5. Remove skins from Roma tomatoes if blistered. Roughly chop all grilled items.
6. Add grilled ingredients to processor. Pulse or puree to desired consistency, about 30 seconds.
7. Chill for at least 1 hour in refrigerator. Adjust seasoning before serving.
8. Serve with chips or as a topping. Store in fridge up to 1 week.
Notes
For more heat, leave seeds in the jalapeño.
Substitute nectarines or add grilled corn for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Salsa, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Grilled Peach Salsa Ingredients That Make the Flavor Pop
Choosing the Best Ingredients for Grilled Peach Salsa
To create a balanced grilled peach salsa, it all starts with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Each one brings something different to the table—from texture to acidity to that smoky flavor that ties it all together.
Peaches are the heart of this recipe. Look for ripe but firm peaches that will hold up on the grill without turning to mush. If your peaches are too soft, try using a firmer variety like white peaches. The natural sugars are caramelized during the grilling process, giving the food an enticingly sweet, slightly burnt flavor.
Roma tomatoes are ideal because they’re meaty and less watery, which helps the salsa stay thick. Blistering them on the grill adds depth. Pair them with cherry tomatoes, which bring a juicy burst and a touch of brightness.
The sweet onion mellows out beautifully when grilled, adding a smoky sweetness that balances the acidity. If you prefer a stronger bite, you could try red onions, but keep in mind they’ll have a sharper flavor.
Jalapeños provide just the right amount of heat. Removing the seeds and ribs tones down the spice, but feel free to leave them in if you like it hot.
And don’t forget the brown sugar—it not only balances the vinegar but also helps create beautiful grill marks on the peaches. A touch of apple cider vinegar and lemon juice adds acidity to cut through the sweetness, while garlic and cilantro build that fresh, zesty layer you expect in a great salsa.
This blend of ingredients also complements summer recipes like our cucumber peach salad or even something more breakfast-friendly like the peach breakfast bake. It’s incredibly adaptable!
Easy Substitutions and Flavor Swaps
What I love most about this grilled peach salsa is how easy it is to customize based on what you have in your pantry or garden. Let’s say peaches aren’t in season—nectarines are a fantastic swap, and you won’t even need to peel them. Prefer a sweeter twist? Try adding grilled pineapple for a tropical vibe.
No cherry tomatoes? Just increase the number of Roma tomatoes and add a teaspoon of honey to make up for the sweetness.
For those who don’t love cilantro (it’s okay, I see you), substitute with fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley for a completely new profile. You can also play with the spice level by using serrano peppers instead of jalapeños, or adding a pinch of cayenne to the food processor.
Want a richer salsa? Add a tablespoon of avocado to the mix before blending—it’ll give the salsa a creamy, dreamy finish that’s amazing over tacos or grilled shrimp.
Just remember, salsa is personal. Once you’ve made the base recipe, don’t be afraid to tweak it! In fact, one of our family’s favorite versions includes grilled corn for a bit of crunch—totally inspired by our experiments during last summer’s taco night.
How to Make Grilled Peach Salsa Step by Step
Prep and Grill Like a Pro
When making grilled peach salsa, preparation is everything. The key is to keep it simple and let the grill work its smoky magic.
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium heat. While it’s warming up, halve and pit the ripe peaches, slice the Roma tomatoes, and cut the onion and jalapeño in half. Drizzle everything with a light coat of olive oil, and don’t forget the brown sugar on the peach flesh—it enhances the caramelization that makes this salsa shine.
Once your ingredients are prepped, place the peaches, tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño face down on the grill. Grill the peaches and onions for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. You want them slightly tender with distinct char marks. The tomatoes and jalapeños need a little less time—3 to 4 minutes should do it.
When everything is off the grill, let it cool for a few minutes. This not only helps with blending but also makes the tomato skins easier to remove. If they’re blistered, go ahead and peel them off. If not, don’t worry—grilled peach salsa still turns out fantastic with the skins on.
Blend, Chill, and Serve With Confidence
Now it’s time to bring the grilled peach salsa together. In your food processor, add the cherry tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and that extra tablespoon of brown sugar. Give it a quick 10-second blend to create a zesty base.
Next, roughly chop the cooled grilled ingredients—peaches, Roma tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño—and add them to the processor. Pulse for about 30 seconds or until you reach your desired consistency. Some like it smooth, others prefer it chunky. Either works beautifully.
Pour the salsa into a container and chill for at least one hour. This step allows the flavors to marinate and deepen—don’t skip it. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of vinegar brings everything to life.
Grilled peach salsa is best enjoyed cold with tortilla chips, spooned over grilled chicken, or even served with grilled peach salad. Its smoky-sweet charm also pairs wonderfully with summery dishes like our peach salsa recipe, giving you endless ways to enjoy it.
And yes, it stores like a dream. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to one week.
Serving and Storing Grilled Peach Salsa the Right Way
Delicious Ways to Serve Grilled Peach Salsa
Grilled peach salsa isn’t just a dip—it’s a game-changer in your summer recipe rotation. Once you’ve made a batch, you’ll want to use it on everything. It starts with a classic: serve it with a big bowl of tortilla chips at your next backyard party. The smoky peaches and spicy jalapeños are guaranteed to disappear fast.
But don’t stop there. This fresh, tangy salsa is also incredible spooned over grilled meats. Try it with chicken, pork chops, or even flaky grilled fish like salmon or mahi-mahi. The fruity sweetness works like a glaze, especially when paired with grilled proteins.
If you’re building summer bowls or tacos, grilled peach salsa adds a juicy, bright element that cuts through rich flavors. We love using it as a topping on grilled shrimp tacos or black bean quinoa bowls. For a sweet-savory combo, serve it over cottage cheese or layer it onto your avocado toast.
Hosting brunch? Try a scoop over eggs or mixed into cottage cheese for something totally unexpected. It even pairs beautifully with grilled peach chicken salad or on the side of peach and burrata salad to complement those creamy textures.
Looking for a lighter lunch? Add a few spoonfuls of this salsa to your next peach arugula salad or cucumber peach salad to bring in depth and smokiness.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
Grilled peach salsa is best enjoyed fresh—but if you store it properly, it stays delicious for up to a week.
Once blended, transfer the salsa into an airtight glass or BPA-free plastic container. Let it chill in the fridge for at least one hour before serving to help the flavors marry. That marinating time is what makes the grilled peach salsa extra rich and cohesive in taste.
When stored in the fridge, stir it before serving as some separation can occur. If the texture thickens too much, just stir in a splash of lemon juice or olive oil to loosen it up.
Want to freeze it? You can, although the texture will be softer after thawing. Freeze in small, airtight freezer-safe bags (press out all the air!) and use within two months. Before serving, give it a thorough toss and let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight.
One important note: grilled peach salsa contains fresh ingredients like garlic and cilantro, which lose their punch if stored too long. For peak flavor, enjoy it within the first 3–4 days if you’re using it for toppings or dips.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Peach Salsa
What does grilled peach salsa taste like?
Grilled peach salsa has a delicious balance of smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. The peaches caramelize on the grill, adding depth, while tomatoes and vinegar provide brightness. The jalapeño adds just the right amount of heat, and fresh cilantro brings it all together. It’s complex, but not overpowering—perfect for both snacking and pairing with mains.
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh ones?
Fresh peaches are best for grilled peach salsa, especially when grilled to get that caramelized flavor. Canned peaches are too soft and lack the natural sugar needed for charring. If you’re in a pinch, opt for frozen peaches (thawed and patted dry), but fresh really is the way to go for that smoky-sweet payoff.
How spicy is grilled peach salsa?
That depends on how you prep your jalapeño. Removing the seeds and ribs makes it milder, while leaving them in adds more heat. If you want even more kick, add a second jalapeño or try a serrano pepper. For something milder, use just half a jalapeño or substitute with a dash of chili flakes.
How long does grilled peach salsa last in the fridge?
Grilled peach salsa lasts up to 7 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. It’s best within the first 3–4 days when the flavors are at their peak. Always give it a stir before serving, and taste to see if it needs a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of salt to refresh the flavor.
Conclusion
Grilled peach salsa is more than just a seasonal dip—it’s a sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy blend that captures everything we love about summer cooking. With just a few fresh ingredients, a hot grill, and a food processor, you’ll have a salsa that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for pairing with your favorite grilled dishes, tacos, salads, or chips.
Whether you’re making it for your next family cookout or meal prepping for the week, this salsa is as flexible as it is flavorful. It also stores beautifully, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. Don’t forget—you can mix and match with other summer favorites like our peach quinoa salad or grilled peach salad for the ultimate sunny spread.
If you loved this recipe, head over to our spicy peach salsa recipe or explore more summer creations right here on Frosty Recipes. Happy grilling!
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