This Simple Peach Feta Salad brings together juicy peaches, creamy feta, and fresh herbs for a tasty treat. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for summer picnics!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just slice the peaches, crumble the feta, and sprinkle some herbs. It’s a quick way to impress friends at any gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are essential for natural sweetness and juiciness. If peaches are out of season, nectarines or plums can be an excellent alternative!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty creaminess that balances the sweetness of the peaches. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative like almond feta.
Fresh Herbs: Basil and mint give the salad a fresh burst of flavor. Feel free to experiment with cilantro or parsley for a different twist!
Mixed Salad Greens: Arugula offers a peppery taste that complements the other ingredients. If you prefer baby spinach or kale, they work well too.
Honey: Honey acts as a sweetener in the dressing. Maple syrup or agave syrup can be used as a vegan alternative!
How Do You Make the Perfect Dressing for This Salad?
The dressing is key to bringing all the flavors together in this salad. Here’s how to make it just right:
- Start by whisking the olive oil, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. The honey will help balance the acidity of the lemon juice.
- Make sure to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure it’s just right for your palate.
- If you want an extra creamy dressing, consider adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tahini for richness.
Mix it well until blended and drizzle it over your salad before serving for a fresh, zesty kick!
Simple Peach Feta Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a quick meal or a snack. You’ll spend just a few minutes cutting and mixing everything together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
Start by making the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, honey, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is combined well, and then set it aside while you prepare the salad.
2. Arrange the Greens:
On a large salad plate or in a bowl, lay out the mixed greens evenly. This will be the base of your salad, giving it some lovely color and crunch.
3. Add the Peaches and Onions:
Next, gently distribute the sliced peaches and thinly sliced red onion over the greens. The sweetness of the peaches and the sharpness of the onion add wonderful layers of flavor.
4. Add Feta and Herbs:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. It adds a creamy, salty touch that pairs perfectly with the peaches. Then, scatter the fresh basil and mint leaves across the salad for a burst of fragrant freshness.
5. Drizzle with Dressing:
Now, take the dressing you prepared earlier and drizzle it evenly over the entire salad. This will enhance all the flavors and bring everything together beautifully.
6. Toss and Serve:
Right before serving, gently toss the salad to mix everything together. If you prefer a more elegant look, you can serve it without mixing, allowing your guests to mix it themselves. Enjoy immediately, savoring the delicious combination of sweet peaches, tangy feta, and fresh herbs!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute with nectarines, plums, or even berries for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the fruit is ripe for the best sweetness!
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate if possible. Store the salad greens, fruit, and dressing in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Combine them right before serving for the best texture.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Slice the peaches and onions and store them in an airtight container. Make the dressing and keep it separate. Assemble the salad right before serving to ensure freshness.
What If I Don’t Have Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta, you can use goat cheese or even a vegan cheese alternative. Ricotta also works well for a creamy texture, though it will change the flavor slightly!
