This Easy Summer Peach Salad is a refreshing treat! It features sweet peaches, crisp greens, and a light dressing that brings it all together. Perfect for those warm days!
Sometimes, I can’t resist adding a sprinkle of nuts for a little crunch. I mean, who can say no to extra flavor? Give it a try and enjoy the summer vibe! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Greens: I love using arugula for its peppery taste, but you can mix it up with spinach or mixed salad greens. Both add a nice crunch and nutrients.
Peaches: Ripe peaches give a sweet flavor. If they’re not in season, try nectarines or even plums for a similar taste. Canned peaches can work too, just drain them well!
Avocado: This adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan, substitute with diced cucumber or sliced pears for a fresh twist, or skip it altogether.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a salty contrast to the sweet peaches. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a vegan feta or omit the cheese entirely. Try almonds or sunflower seeds for added texture instead.
How Do I Toast Almonds for the Perfect Crunch?
Toasting almonds brings out their nutty flavor and adds crunch to your salad. It’s easy! Just follow these steps:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced almonds and keep stirring them for about 3-5 minutes.
- Watch closely. Once they turn golden brown and smell yummy, take them off the heat to prevent burning!
Let them cool a bit before tossing into the salad for the best flavor! Enjoy your bright, summery salad!
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 small ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or blue cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep time and no additional cooking required. Just toss everything together and it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the fresh arugula or mixed greens in a large salad bowl. These will be the foundation of your salad, so make sure they’re nice and crisp.
2. Layer on the Goodies:
Next, add the sliced peaches, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion right on top of the greens. This will give your salad a lovely colorful look and a variety of flavors.
3. Sprinkle with Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta or blue cheese across the salad. The creamy cheese adds a delicious contrast to the sweet peaches and creamy avocado.
4. Toast the Almonds:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds for about 3-5 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Keep stirring to avoid burning! Once done, set them aside to cool, then add them to the salad.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper to create your dressing. This will tie all the flavors in the salad together!
6. Dress the Salad:
Carefully drizzle the dressing over the salad. Use just enough to coat the ingredients lightly. You can always add more later if needed.
7. Toss Gently:
Using salad tongs or two large spoons, toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients without squishing the peaches or avocado. You want everything to stay fresh!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste. Enjoy the vibrant blend of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors all summer long!
FAQ for Easy Summer Peach Salad with Fresh Greens
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute with nectarines, plums, or even berries. These will add a delightful sweetness and freshness to your salad!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add a few more nuts or seeds for added texture and protein!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! You can slice the peaches and dice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to ensure the greens stay crisp.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again to prevent soggy greens!
