This Easy Summer Peach Salad is all about fresh and juicy peaches mixed with crisp greens and nuts. It’s a vibrant dish perfect for hot days!
You can make it in just a few minutes. Plus, who can resist that sweet peachy goodness? I love adding a drizzle of honey for some extra sweetness—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for their sweetness. If they’re not in season, nectarines work well too!
Arugula: This adds a peppery flavor. If you prefer something milder, spinach or mixed greens are great substitutions.
Avocado: Avocado gives creaminess. You can skip it or use diced cucumber or even hummus for similar texture.
Red Onion: It adds a nice crunch. If raw onion is too strong for you, try green onions or radishes instead!
Sliced Almonds: They add a nice crunch. Feel free to swap these for walnuts or pecans if you like those better.
Cheese: Feta brings a tangy kick. If you’re looking for an alternative, goat cheese or even a dairy-free option would fit well.
How Do You Make a Great Salad Dressing?
A simple dressing can elevate your salad. For this recipe, we use olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Measure out 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
- Drizzle over the salad ingredients before tossing them.
If you want to add extra flavor, consider whisking in a teaspoon of honey or mustard to the mix.
Easy Summer Peach Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced
- 5 cups fresh arugula
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or blue cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to chop and assemble, making it a perfect dish for a light summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by washing your arugula and then place it in a large salad bowl. Next, slice the peaches and diced avocado, and thinly slice the red onion. Add them all to the bowl with the arugula.
2. Add Crunch and Creaminess:
Sprinkle the bowl with the toasted sliced almonds and your choice of crumbled feta or blue cheese. This adds texture and flavor to the salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar (or glaze). Drizzle this dressing evenly over the salad ingredients.
4. Toss Everything Together:
Using a salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Season to Taste:
Finally, sprinkle a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad to taste. Remember to do this to make all those flavors pop!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your vibrant salad immediately for the best texture. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main meal on a warm day. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Summer Peach Salad
Can I Use Different Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! While peaches add a juicy sweetness, you can substitute them with nectarines, plums, or even berries like strawberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Keep the Avocado from Browning?
To prevent browning, add the diced avocado just before serving. If you need to prepare the salad in advance, you can toss the avocado with a little lime or lemon juice to help keep it fresh.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the salad components ahead of time. Store the arugula, peaches, avocado, onion, and almonds separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the salad may become a bit soggy from the dressing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
