This Fresh Summer Peach Salad is a bright and tasty mix of juicy peaches, crisp greens, and crunchy nuts, all topped with a sweet honey dressing. Perfect for warm days!
Nothing beats the sweetness of summer peaches in this salad. I love serving it at picnics—everyone loves it more than my questionable attempts at making fancy dishes! 😄
Making this salad is super easy. I just toss everything together in a bowl and drizzle on the honey dressing. It’s a refreshing side dish that I can whip up in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe summer peaches are key for sweetness and juiciness. If you can’t find them, try nectarines or apricots for a similar flavor. Canned peaches can work in a pinch, but fresh is still best!
Mixed Greens: I prefer a mix of arugula and baby spinach, but you can use any greens you like, such as kale or romaine. For a heartier salad, add some cooked quinoa.
Cheese: I often use feta for its tangy flavor, but goat cheese is a great option too. If you’re lactose-free, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese.
Nuts: Toasted pecans give a great crunch. Walnuts are a nice substitute, but if nuts aren’t an option, try pumpkin seeds for a similar texture.
How Do I Make the Honey Dressing Smooth and Flavorful?
The dressing ties the salad together, so it’s important to get it right! Start by mixing the honey and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice) in a small bowl. This helps the honey dissolve better. Then, slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to create a smooth texture.
- Whisk together honey and vinegar until mixed.
- Slowly add olive oil, whisking as you go to emulsify.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy with the seasoning.
For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of mustard or a bit of garlic to the dressing. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to a week; just give it a good shake before using!
Fresh Summer Peach Salad with Honey Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe summer peaches, sliced
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, baby spinach, romaine)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves or mint for garnish (optional)
For the Honey Dressing:
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy dish to enjoy on warm summer days. You’ll spend minimal time chopping and mixing, so you can quickly dig in and savor those fresh flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
Start by washing your ripe summer peaches thoroughly. Slice them into thin wedges, making sure to remove the pits. Perfectly ripe peaches will add a sweet and juicy burst to the salad!
2. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced peaches, thinly sliced red onion, and the toasted nuts. This combo of flavors and textures makes for a refreshing base!
3. Whisk the Honey Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth. This will enhance the flavor of the salad tremendously!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the honey dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to ensure each ingredient is coated evenly with the dressing. The sweet, tangy dressing will bring the salad to life!
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top of the salad. This adds a lovely creamy texture and tangy flavor to balance the sweetness of the peaches.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, add some fresh basil or mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve the salad right away to enjoy it at its freshest as a delightful side or light main dish!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season, feel free to substitute with ripe nectarines, apricots, or even berries for a different twist. Just make sure whatever fruit you choose is fresh and sweet to maintain that delightful flavor profile!
Can I Make the Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them and add the dressing right before serving. This way, the greens stay crisp and fresh, preventing any sogginess. Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad is best eaten within a day or two, but keep in mind that the greens may wilt over time. If you plan to save it, keep the dressing separate and add it just before eating to maintain freshness!
Can I Make the Honey Dressing Vegan?
Yes, you can! To make the honey dressing vegan, simply substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
