Refreshing Summer Peach Salad Recipe

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Salads & Side dishes

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This bright and tasty summer peach salad is a wonderful mix of juicy peaches, crisp greens, and a sprinkle of nuts. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something light and fresh!

You know it’s summer when peaches are just bursting with flavor! I love adding a splash of lemon juice for extra zing. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this one! 🍑🥗

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key for their sweet and juicy flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines make a great substitute. They offer a similar taste and texture.

Salad Greens: Mixed greens provide a crunchy base. You can use kale or spring mix if you don’t have arugula or spinach. Each adds its unique twist!

Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is creamy and delightful, but if you prefer a stronger taste, try crumbled feta instead. It adds a nice tanginess to the salad.

Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well and still give a good texture.

How Do You Make the Perfect Salad Dressing?

Making a salad dressing is super easy and enhances the taste of your salad. Here’s how:

  • Combine olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  • Use a whisk or fork to mix it well until all ingredients blend smoothly together.
  • The honey adds sweetness, so adjust to your taste. For a different flavor, consider balsamic vinegar as a substitute for lemon juice.

Don’t be afraid to taste as you go—small adjustments can make a big difference! Drizzle the dressing over just before serving to keep your greens crisp and fresh.

Refreshing Summer Peach Salad Recipe

Refreshing Summer Peach Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Fruits and Greens:

  • 3 ripe peaches, sliced
  • 5 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)

Cheese and Nuts:

  • 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts

Aromatics and Seasoning:

  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to assemble and perfect for a refreshing meal or side dish without any cooking involved!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Combine the Base:

Start by taking a large bowl and adding the mixed salad greens, peach slices, and thinly sliced red onion. Give it a gentle toss to start mixing everything together!

2. Add Cheese and Nuts:

Next, sprinkle in the fresh mozzarella balls or crumbled feta cheese, along with the toasted pecans or walnuts. These ingredients add a delightful creaminess and crunch to your salad.

3. Whisk Together the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. This dressing is what ties the salad together!

4. Dress the Salad:

Drizzle the dressing over your salad mixture. Take your time to toss everything gently so that all the ingredients are coated evenly without bruising the greens.

5. Garnish and Serve:

Finish off by garnishing the salad with chopped fresh basil leaves to add a pop of flavor. Serve your salad immediately for the freshest taste and enjoy this delightful summer dish!

Enjoy this vibrant and fresh salad perfect for summer days!

Refreshing Summer Peach Salad Recipe

Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?

Absolutely! While peaches are the star of this recipe, you can swap them for other seasonal fruits like nectarines, plums, or even berries for a unique twist. Just make sure they’re ripe for the best flavor!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat again, as the greens can get wilted if dressed too early. Enjoy within 1-2 days for optimal freshness!

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

You can prep most of this salad ahead of time! Slice the peaches and mix the dressing to store in the fridge. However, for the best texture, assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and the flavors vibrant.

What Can I Substitute for Nuts if I Have Allergies?

No worries! If you have nut allergies, you can use seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch. Alternatively, you can skip the nuts altogether and still enjoy a delicious salad!

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