This fresh summer peach salad is a tasty mix of juicy peaches, crisp greens, and colorful veggies, all drizzled with a sweet honey dressing. It’s both refreshing and light, perfect for hot days!
I love how easy this salad is to whip up! Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a bowl of sunshine on your table. Plus, who can resist the sweetness of peaches in summer? 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe, juicy summer peaches for the best flavor. If they aren’t available, nectarines or plums can work well as substitutes. They still provide that sweet and juicy touch!
Salad Greens: Mixed greens add a nice variety in flavor and texture. You can also use baby spinach or kale if you prefer something heartier. Just be sure to mix in some softer greens for balance!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a pop of color and sweetness. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can use regular tomatoes cut into bite-sized pieces. You could also try adding bell peppers for a crunchy alternative.
Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a great crunch. If you have nut allergies, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as tasty and safe options.
Feta Cheese: The feta cheese gives a creamy, salty flavor. For a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu works well, or you can skip the cheese altogether!
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Honey Dressing?
The honey dressing is really easy to make and brings everything together. The key here is to whisk well so that the ingredients blend smoothly.
- Start with olive oil, honey, and your choice of vinegar or lemon juice in a bowl.
- Add in Dijon mustard—this enhances the flavor and helps to emulsify the dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper, then whisk everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
Feel free to adjust the honey for sweetness or the vinegar for tanginess based on your taste! You can even add a pinch of garlic powder for a little extra flavor. Enjoy your salad with this delightful dressing!
Fresh Summer Peach Salad With Honey Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 ripe summer peaches, sliced
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
For the Honey Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation. This salad is quick to put together and makes for a fantastic light meal or side dish that showcases fresh summer flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Greens:
Begin by washing and drying your salad greens thoroughly. Then, place them in a large salad bowl to create a fresh base for your salad.
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, add the sliced peaches, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion to the greens in the bowl. Mix them gently to combine and create a colorful medley.
3. Make the Honey Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and well emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad:
Drizzle the honey dressing over your salad. Gently toss everything together to ensure the greens and toppings are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Add Crunch and Flavor:
Sprinkle the toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the salad, and if you’d like, add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy touch.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve the salad immediately for a refreshing summer treat!
Enjoy this delightful salad as a side dish or a light lunch, perfect for warm summer days!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches are the star of this salad, you can substitute them with other fruits like nectarines, plums, or even berries for a unique twist. Just pick fruits that are ripe and sweet for the best flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. You can store the salad for up to 2 days and add the dressing just before serving.
Can I Make the Honey Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the honey dressing ahead! Just whisk all the ingredients together and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using, as it may separate over time.
Is This Salad Good for Meal Prep?
Definitely! This salad is great for meal prep. Prepare the ingredients and store them separately, then assemble just before eating. It ensures your salad stays fresh and crunchy!
