This refreshing summer peach salad is bright, light, and full of juicy goodness! It features sweet peaches and crisp greens, tossed with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
If you want a light meal or a side dish, this salad is perfect. Plus, who wouldn’t want to eat something that makes summer taste so good? 🍑🌿
Making this salad is a breeze. Just chop, mix, and enjoy! I love serving it with grilled chicken for a tasty meal that feels fancy but is super easy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness and juiciness. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines make a perfect swap. You could also use fresh apricots for a slightly different taste.
Arugula: This gives a peppery kick to the salad! If you can’t find arugula, mixed salad greens or spinach can work well. Each has its own unique flavor profile, so choose based on your preference!
Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the sweetness of the peaches. If you want a lower-fat option, you can skip it, or try using a small amount of avocado oil or tahini instead for richness.
Feta Cheese: I love using feta for its tangy flavor, but goat cheese or even shredded mozzarella can also work. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan feta or skip the cheese entirely.
Sliced Almonds: These give a nice crunch! You can substitute with walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds if you prefer. Just make sure to toast them for extra flavor!
How Do I Toast Almonds Without Burning Them?
Toasting almonds can really bring out their flavor, but it can be tricky to avoid burning them. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Use a dry skillet over medium heat. No oil needed!
- Spread the sliced almonds in a single layer in the skillet.
- Keep an eye on them, stirring frequently for about 2-3 minutes.
- Once they’re golden and fragrant, immediately transfer them to a plate to cool (this stops the cooking process).
Your toasted almonds will add delicious crunch to your salad without any burnt taste!
Easy Summer Peach Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 4 cups arugula (or mixed salad greens)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or blue cheese)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as basil, mint, or cilantro), chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or honey balsamic glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy dish that requires no cooking, making it perfect for those warm summer days when you want something refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
Start by washing the peaches under cool running water. Next, cut them in half and carefully remove the pit. Slice each half into thin wedges, and set them aside.
2. Combine the Greens:
In a large salad bowl, toss together the arugula (or mixed salad greens), thinly sliced red onion, diced avocado, and your choice of fresh herbs. This mix will create a vibrant base for your salad!
3. Add the Peaches:
Gently fold the sliced peaches into the salad, being careful not to mash the avocado. The peaches will add sweetness to the dish!
4. Toast the Almonds:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once they’re golden and fragrant, remove them from the skillet and let them cool slightly.
5. Top the Salad:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted almonds over your salad mixture. This will add a delicious creaminess and crunch to each bite!
6. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar or honey balsamic glaze. Season it with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss everything together gently to combine without smashing the peaches or avocado. This ensures each ingredient is nicely coated with the dressing.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your summer peach salad is ready to be served! Enjoy it as a light meal or side dish, and savor the bright flavors of summer.
This salad beautifully combines the sweet and juicy flavors of summer peaches with the peppery bite of arugula, the creaminess of avocado, tangy cheese, and crunchy almonds. The fresh herbs really elevate the taste, making it a go-to dish for any warm day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches for This Salad?
While fresh peaches are ideal for this recipe due to their sweetness and texture, you can use canned or frozen peaches in a pinch. If using canned peaches, make sure to drain them well. For frozen peaches, thaw them in the fridge and pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add extra nuts or seeds for additional protein, and consider adding avocado for creaminess!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep some ingredients in advance. Slice the peaches and dice the avocado right before serving to prevent browning. You can prepare the dressing and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just toss everything together when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Other Greens Can I Use?
If you’re not a fan of arugula, feel free to substitute it with other greens like spinach, mixed salad greens, or even kale. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
