Grilled Apricot Salad with Crisp Wine Pairings to Match
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce like apricots and arugula. And what better way to highlight these flavors than with a delicious appetizer like Food & Wine’s Grilled Apricots with Burrata, Country Ham, and Arugula? This dish is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at any spring gathering.
This light and flavorful dish is perfect for springtime al fresco dining, especially when paired with a wine that complements its various flavors. Here are a few options to consider:
Sauvignon Blanc
This crisp, refreshing wine is a classic pairing for salads and appetizers. Its bright acidity and citrus notes make it a great match for the tangy arugula and creamy burrata in this dish. It’s a wine that is most often made in a fruit-forward style so it is sure to bring out the zesty flavors in the apricots while cutting through the creamy textures in the burrata and country ham.
Chenin Blanc
A versatile white wine, Chenin Blanc can be found in a range of styles from dry to sweet. Look for a dry or off-dry option to pair with the grilled apricots and country ham. Chenin Blanc's fruity and floral notes will complement the sweetness of the apricots.
Coteaux du Layon
If you're looking for a sweet option to pair with this dish - and I do love a succulently sweet wine from time to time - consider Coteaux du Layon. This French wine from the Loire Valley is made from Chenin Blanc grapes and has a sweet, honeyed flavor that will complement the grilled apricots and balance the saltiness of the country ham.
Prosecco
If you're looking for something bubbly to celebrate the season, Prosecco is a great option. It's a light and refreshing sparkling wine that pairs well with the sweetness of the apricots and the creaminess of the burrata.
No matter which wine you choose, be sure to serve it slightly chilled to enhance its refreshing qualities and make it the perfect accompaniment to this springtime appetizer.
TL;DR - Grilled Apricots with Burrata, Country Ham, and Arugula is a wonderful springtime dish that's easy to make and sure to impress. Pair it with a crisp white wine, and you have a perfect meal for a beautiful spring day.