This Millionaire Peach Salad is a colorful mix of fresh peaches, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for warm days!
Every bite feels like a little celebration. I love to drizzle it with honey for an extra touch of sweetness. It’s a hit at picnics—just don’t forget the forks! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star of this salad. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or plums can be a good substitute. For a different twist, try using canned peaches, just drain them well!
Mixed Salad Greens: I love using a mix of spinach, arugula, and romaine for texture. Feel free to use any greens you have on hand like kale or spring mix. Just make sure they are fresh!
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well too. Just toast them lightly for the best flavor.
Cheese: Feta cheese gives a tangy kick, while goat cheese adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a vegan cream cheese or omit it altogether!
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness. Substitute with raisins or even chopped dried apricots if you prefer. Fresh berries can add even more color and flavor!
How Do I Make a Balanced Dressing?
The dressing brings everything together, so getting it right is key! Here’s how to create a balanced honey-balsamic vinaigrette:
- Start with 3 tablespoons of honey for sweetness and add more if you like it sweeter.
- Add 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar for acidity. This balances the sweet peaches and brings brightness to the salad.
- Drizzle in 1/4 cup of olive oil while whisking to create an emulsion. This helps the dressing coat the salad!
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting to your liking.
Taste the dressing before pouring it on the salad! Don’t hesitate to tweak the ingredients until it’s just right for you.
Fresh and Easy Millionaire Peach Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, sliced
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
- 1 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or golden raisins
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare. Once combined, it’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a few hours before serving if needed. Just remember to toss the salad with the dressing just before serving for the best taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
Start by grabbing a small bowl. In it, whisk together the honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Adjust the sweetness or acidity based on what you like. Taste test it to make sure it’s just perfect!
2. Set the Salad Base:
In a large salad bowl, add the mixed salad greens. This will be the foundation of your beautiful salad, so make sure it’s nice and even.
3. Add the Peaches:
Next, take your sliced peaches and arrange them gently on top of the greens. Feel free to be creative with how you place them—it’s all about presentation!
4. Sprinkle and Layer:
Now it’s time to add in the toasted nuts for crunch, the dried cranberries for sweetness, and the sliced red onion for a slight bite. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the entire salad.
5. Fresh Mint Finish:
Add the chopped mint leaves, which will bring a refreshing taste to your salad and brighten up the flavors.
6. Dress It Up:
Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad just before you’re ready to serve it. This keeps the greens fresh and crispy!
7. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss the salad to mix everything evenly, or you can keep it beautifully arranged for a more formal presentation. Either way, it looks wonderful!
8. Enjoy Your Creation!
Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and textures. This Millionaire Peach Salad is a true delight and perfect for any occasion.
Dig in and enjoy this vibrant, sweet, and savory combination that truly makes this salad feel ‘millionaire’ worthy!
FAQ for Fresh and Easy Millionaire Peach Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If peaches are out of season, try using nectarines, plums, or even apples. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries can also add a delightful twist to the flavor and presentation.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting. The salad should last about 1-2 days, though the texture may change over time.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the cheese and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing. It will still be delicious and refreshing without the dairy!
What Nut Alternatives Can I Use?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use nuts, try substituting with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. They add a nice crunch and depth to the salad without the allergens!
