This bright and refreshing salad combines peppery arugula with sweet peaches and creamy goat cheese. It’s a perfect mix of flavors for a light lunch or a zesty side dish!
You can toss in some nuts for extra crunch. I can’t resist adding a sprinkle of honey, too—it makes everything taste even better. Give it a try, and you might just fall in love! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: This leafy green is the star of the salad with its lovely peppery flavor. If you’re not a fan, you could swap it for baby spinach or mixed greens for a milder taste.
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring sweetness and juiciness. If they’re out of season, try using nectarines or even sliced strawberries for a different twist.
Goat Cheese: The creamy tanginess of goat cheese perfectly complements the salad. If you prefer a different flavor, feta or ricotta cheese works well as a substitute.
Pine Nuts: They add a lovely crunch. If you want a budget-friendly option, try sunflower seeds or sliced almonds instead—they’re delicious, too!
How Do I Toast Pine Nuts Without Burning Them?
Toasting pine nuts enhances their flavor, but they can burn quickly. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat—no oil needed!
- Add the pine nuts and stir them constantly. This helps even toasting.
- Watch closely—when they turn golden brown (about 2-3 minutes), remove them from the heat immediately to prevent burning.
I always find it best to toast just what I need for the recipe so that they’re fresh and crispy!
Fresh Arugula Salad with Peaches and Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced thinly
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)
Time Needed:
This refreshing salad will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes slicing peaches, toasting pine nuts, and mixing everything together. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by thinly slicing the peaches and crumbling the goat cheese. For the pine nuts, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them constantly for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them! Once they’re done, remove the skillet from the heat and let the pine nuts cool.
2. Combine the Base:
In a large salad bowl, add the fresh arugula and the sliced peaches. Give it a gentle toss so they mix nicely without bruising the peaches.
3. Add Crunch and Flavor:
Now, sprinkle in the toasted pine nuts and the fresh basil slices if you’re using them. This adds lovely flavor and a pop of color!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, pepper, and honey if you want a touch of sweetness. This dressing ties everything together beautifully.
5. Bring It All Together:
Drizzle the dressing over your salad and gently toss everything to coat evenly. You want the arugula and peaches to be nicely dressed without being overwhelmed!
6. Finish with Cheese:
Finally, top the salad with crumbled goat cheese. This adds a wonderful creaminess that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately as a light appetizer or as a refreshing side dish. Enjoy the mix of flavors and textures—this salad is sure to impress!
This salad brings together the peppery notes of arugula, the sweetness of peaches, and the creaminess of goat cheese, creating a delightful balance. Enjoy every bite! 😊
FAQ
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Arugula?
Absolutely! If you find arugula to be too peppery, you can substitute it with baby spinach, mixed greens, or even kale. Each will give a different flavor profile, but will still create a delicious salad!
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Peaches?
No worries! If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use nectarines or even canned peaches (in juice, not syrup) for a sweet alternative. Just drain them well before adding!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
For any leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, as it can make the greens soggy over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time! Slice the peaches and toast the pine nuts, then store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the salad and dress it right before serving.
