This refreshing salad mixes juicy blueberries and sweet peaches with creamy feta cheese. It’s like a summer party in a bowl! Perfect for picnics or just a light lunch at home.
I love how easy this salad is to whip up. Just toss everything together, and you’re done! It’s fruity, tangy, and really fun to eat. Who knew healthy could taste so good? 🍑🫐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are the star in this salad! If you’re short on time or finding them pricey, you can use frozen blueberries too. Just let them thaw a bit before mixing.
Peaches: Ripe peaches offer a sweet, juicy element. If they’re out of season or unavailable, nectarines or canned peaches (drained) work nicely as alternatives.
Cucumber: A crunchy cucumber adds a refreshing bite. If you prefer a stronger flavor, try using a radish instead, or even jicama for a unique touch.
Feta Cheese: Creamy feta brings a delightful saltiness. For a dairy-free option, consider using crumbled tofu seasoned with a bit of salt or nutritional yeast for flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil enhances the salad’s aroma and flavor. If basil is unavailable, mint or parsley can be good substitutes for a fresh twist.
How Do I Make the Dressing Just Right?
The dressing is key to pulling the salad together. It needs to complement the fruit without overpowering it. Remember to balance flavors with the right ratio of sweet and acidic.
- Start with a base of olive oil for richness.
- Add a sweetener like honey or maple syrup to boost the fruit’s natural sweetness.
- Incorporate vinegar or lemon juice for a bit of tang to cut through the sweetness. Adjust to your taste preferences.
- Season with salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors in the dressing.
Whisk or shake to emulsify, and you’ll have a dressing that perfectly coats your salad ingredients!
Easy Blueberry Peach Salad with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 2 ripe peaches, diced (with skin on)
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- A handful of fresh basil leaves (small leaves preferred)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy to throw together, plus you can chill it for an extra 15-20 minutes if you like your salads cold. Perfect for warm days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Produce:
Start by washing all your fresh produce thoroughly to remove any dirt. Next, dice the ripe peaches into bite-sized pieces, slice the cucumber into rounds, and pick off the small basil leaves from their stems. No need for perfect pieces—just make them comfy to eat!
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh blueberries, diced peaches, cucumber slices, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss the mixture with your hands or a large spoon to combine the fruits and veggies evenly.
3. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper. Mix well until the dressing is smooth and slightly emulsified, which means it all comes together nicely.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the fruit and vegetable mixture in the salad bowl. Toss gently with a spoon or your hands to coat everything evenly. Take your time so you don’t squish the fruits!
5. Add Fresh Basil:
Sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the top of the salad. Give it all one final gentle toss to distribute the basil and add a lovely aroma.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately as a colorful, refreshing side dish! If you prefer a chilled salad, let it sit in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors before serving.
Enjoy this light, colorful salad that balances sweet, savory, and fresh herb notes perfectly on any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Blueberry Peach Salad with Feta
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like strawberries, blackberries, or even diced mango for a fun twist. Just ensure they complement the flavors of blueberries and peaches.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the vegetables may lose some crunch, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients and the dressing in advance, then combine them right before serving to keep everything fresh. If you chill the components separately, it will help preserve the texture of the fruits and veggies.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using crumbled tofu seasoned with a bit of salt or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For a lower-fat option, you can use cottage cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor without the creaminess.
