This Easy Summer Peach Salad is a refreshing mix of juicy peaches and crisp greens. Drizzled with a light dressing, it’s the perfect dish to cool off on a warm day!
Honestly, who can resist those sweet peaches? 🥳 I love adding crunchy nuts for a little extra fun. It’s quick to make, and you’ll feel like a summer superstar serving this to friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula or Mixed Greens: Fresh arugula adds a slightly peppery flavor, but you can use any mix of greens like spinach or kale. If you’re not a fan of strong greens, go for romaine or iceberg lettuce for a milder taste.
Peaches: Ripe, juicy, and sweet peaches are the star here. If they aren’t in season, nectarines or even plums work well. Canned peaches in juice can be an alternative in a pinch, just drain them well.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess. If you’re allergic or don’t have one, you can skip it or use a small amount of nuts or seeds for some healthy fats instead.
Nuts: Sliced almonds are great for crunch. Feel free to swap them with walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds if you prefer something different.
Cheese: Blue cheese has a bold flavor, while feta is milder. If you want to keep it dairy-free, try a nut-based cheese or simply leave it out!
How Can I Make Sure My Salad is Well-Mixed and Coated?
Tossing your salad properly ensures every bite is full of flavor! Here are a few tips:
- Make sure your greens are dry after washing. Excess water can dilute the dressing.
- Dress the salad right before serving to keep it from wilting. Start with a little dressing; you can always add more!
- Use your hands to toss gently—this helps coat the ingredients without bruising them.
By following these steps, you will create a beautifully combined salad that tastes delicious and looks great on the plate!
Easy Summer Peach Salad with Fresh Greens
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula or mixed salad greens
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and simple dish that’s perfect for summer days when you want something fresh without spending too much time in the kitchen. You’ll have it ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Greens:
Start by gently washing and drying your arugula or mixed greens. It’s important to remove any excess water so your dressing sticks nicely. Place the greens in a large salad bowl to make mixing easy later on.
2. Add the Fruity Goodness:
Next, add the sliced peaches, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion to the bowl with your greens. These ingredients bring vibrant colors and delicious flavors to your salad!
3. Sprinkle on the Crunch:
Now it’s time to get crunchy! Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds over the salad, and add the crumbled blue cheese or feta. These toppings will give your salad a lovely texture and extra flavor.
4. Make Your Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until it’s nicely blended. This dressing adds a sweet and tangy kick, perfect for the fresh ingredients!
5. Dress and Toss:
Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. Then, gently toss everything together to combine. The goal is to coat all the ingredients without bruising the greens.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Summer Peach Salad is now ready to be served! Enjoy it immediately as a light meal or a refreshing side dish. It’s a perfect addition to any summer gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If peaches are out of season, you can substitute them with nectarines, plums, or even berries like strawberries or blueberries. Just keep the same amount for a balanced flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat again to prevent the greens from wilting.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based cheese alternative. For the dressing, ensure that you’re using maple syrup instead of honey.
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a standalone light lunch. You could also serve it alongside your favorite protein, like tofu or chickpeas, for a filling vegetarian meal!
