This refreshing salad combines juicy peaches, sweet blueberries, and creamy feta cheese. It’s perfect for a summer day or any time you want something light and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blueberries: These tiny fruits pack a big punch of flavor, adding sweetness and a burst of juiciness. If you can’t find fresh blueberries, frozen ones will work fine in a pinch—just let them thaw a bit before using.
Peaches: Ripe peaches are sweet and juicy, which makes them a great fit for this salad. You can swap peaches for nectarines if you prefer, as they have a similar texture and flavor.
Cucumber: The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch. If you’re looking for a different taste, try using red bell pepper for a sweet twist or jicama for extra crunch.
Feta Cheese: Feta provides a creamy and tangy element. For those who are lactose intolerant, try using a lactose-free feta or crumble in some goat cheese instead; it has a similar texture and flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil complements the fruit nicely. If basil isn’t available, you can substitute lightly chopped mint for a different herbal flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Toss for My Salad?
Tossing your salad well mixes all the flavors, but doing it gently is key to keeping everything intact! Here’s how:
- Use your hands or two large spoons to combine the ingredients. This lets you control the mixing without smashing delicate items like blueberries.
- Start from the bottom and lift the salad up, letting the dressing coat the ingredients evenly.
- Avoid tossing too vigorously; you want everything beautifully mixed, not a mushy mess!
Remember to add the dressing just before serving for the best texture!
Easy Blueberry Peach Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 2 ripe peaches, chopped (skin on)
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 10-12 fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This vibrant salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side for dinner. No cooking involved, just washing, chopping, and tossing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash and Prepare Fresh Produce:
Start by washing all the fresh fruits and vegetables under running water to get rid of any dirt or residue.
2. Chop the Peaches:
Next, take the ripe peaches and chop them into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for added texture and color. Yummy!
3. Cut the Cucumber:
Dice the cucumber into small chunks so they mix well with the other ingredients in the salad.
4. Prepare the Lettuce:
Roughly chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl. This will be the base of your beautiful salad.
5. Add Fruits and Cheese:
Now, it’s time to add the blueberries, chopped peaches, diced cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese over the greens in the bowl.
6. Add Fresh Basil:
Tear or chiffonade the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad for that fresh herbal flavor.
7. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice). Add a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper to taste. This dressing will tie all the flavors together!
8. Combine and Toss:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly without smashing anything.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
And there you have it! Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its freshness and vibrant flavors. Dig in!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute the Feta Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, try using a vegan feta style cheese. You can also use crumbled goat cheese for a similar creamy texture with a slightly different flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, to keep the salad ingredients crisp!
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is versatile. You can substitute or add other fruits like strawberries, blackberries, or even diced apples for an extra crunch. Just make sure the fruits are fresh and ripe for the best flavor!
How Do I Keep the Lettuce Fresh Longer?
To keep the romaine lettuce fresh, wash and dry it thoroughly, then store it in a clean, dry container lined with paper towels. This absorbs any excess moisture and helps the lettuce last longer.
