This Millionaire Peach Salad is a refreshing blend of juicy peaches, crunchy nuts, and creamy dressing that makes every bite a treat! With its sweet and creamy twist, this salad is sure to impress.
Making this salad is as easy as pie, or should I say, peach pie? I love serving it as a light lunch or at summer picnics. It’s a fun way to enjoy fresh fruits without feeling guilty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: The star of the salad! Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines make a great substitute as they offer a similar taste and texture.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a pop of color and sweetness. You can swap them for raspberries or blueberries if needed, which will bring their own fruity flair!
Green Grapes: These add crunch and a refreshing bite. Red grapes can be used instead, or you can skip them entirely if you prefer fewer ingredients.
Nuts: I love pecans for their rich taste, but walnuts are a good alternative. You could also go nut-free and use sunflower seeds for crunch if allergies are a concern.
Mini Marshmallows: They add sweetness and a fun texture. If avoiding added sugars, consider using unsweetened coconut flakes for a chewy alternative.
Cream Cheese: Soften it for easy mixing. Neufchatel cheese can be a lighter option if you prefer. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, use vegan cream cheese instead.
How Do I Get the Right Creamy Texture for the Dressing?
Getting the dressing just right is key to this salad. Start with softened cream cheese, as it mixes easily. Here’s a step-by-step to achieve that perfect creamy texture:
- Begin by using an electric mixer to combine softened cream cheese and sugar in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Gradually add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing well until there are no lumps. The blend should be creamy and glossy.
- Mixing in a bowl separately helps avoid lumps, ensuring even distribution in the salad.
Don’t rush this process; take your time to blend until it’s creamy. This will elevate the overall taste of the salad!
Millionaire Peach Salad with Sweet Creamy Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, sliced (about 4-5 medium peaches)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, halved
- 1 cup seedless green grapes, halved
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
For the Sweet Creamy Dressing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. This gives the flavors time to blend beautifully. It’s easy and worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fruit:
Start by washing all the fruit. Slice the peaches, halve the strawberries, and halve the green grapes. In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced peaches, strawberries, grapes, chopped toasted nuts, and mini marshmallows. Toss everything together carefully to ensure it’s evenly mixed without bruising the fruit.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar using a hand mixer. Mix until it’s nice and smooth and there are no lumps. Add in the sour cream and vanilla extract, then continue beating until everything is fully combined and creamy.
3. Combine and Coat:
Pour the sweet creamy dressing over the fruit mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the dressing into the fruit until everything is well coated. Make sure to do this gently so the fruit stays intact.
4. Chill & Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This will help the flavors to meld and the salad to chill nicely. Before serving, give it a gentle toss to mix it again. If you’d like, garnish with fresh mint leaves right before serving for a pop of color!
5. Enjoy:
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish at your next gathering or enjoy it as a light dessert. Every bite is a taste of summer!
Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet fruit and creamy, rich dressing in this Millionaire Peach Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Salad?
Frozen peaches can work in a pinch, but they tend to be softer when thawed. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them in the fridge and drain any excess liquid before slicing and adding them to the salad for the best texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that some fruits may release more juices over time, so the texture may change slightly.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making in advance. Just prepare it up to 24 hours ahead of serving, and keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully as it chills!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you prefer a lighter version or need a dairy-free option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor might differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
