This Easy Peach Feta Salad is a burst of summer on your plate! With sweet peaches, creamy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, it’s fresh and full of flavors that pop.
Honestly, the mix of juicy peaches and salty feta is just perfect! I love serving it as a light lunch or a side dish. It’s quick to throw together, making my summer meals so much brighter!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe, fresh peaches for the best flavor. If peaches are out of season, nectarines or apricots work well too. Just look for fruits that are soft and sweet.
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: These are perfect for adding sweetness to the salad. If you can’t find them, use any flavorful tomatoes, like heirlooms or even chopped Roma. Different colors add brightness!
Feta Cheese: Feta provides a creamy and salty contrast. If you prefer, goat cheese can be a great substitute for a tangy taste, but make sure it’s crumbled too!
Fresh Basil: Basil brings a wonderful aroma and flavor. If basil isn’t available, mint can be a nice alternative, giving a refreshing twist to the salad.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Ingredients Stay Fresh?
Keeping your salad ingredients fresh is key to great flavor. Here are some tips to help maintain freshness:
- Choose ripe but firm peaches to avoid bruising. Handle them gently.
- Wash and dry the vegetables right before you prepare the salad. This helps prevent sogginess.
- Prep the salad right before serving to keep the ingredients crisp. If you need to prepare it ahead, store the dressing separately.
By following these tips, your Easy Peach Feta Salad will not only taste amazing but also look bright and vibrant on your table!
Easy Peach Feta Salad with Fresh Flavors
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (variety of colors if possible)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced or torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for tang)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have a fresh and colorful dish ready to enjoy! Perfect for warm summer days or a quick side dish for a dinner party.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by rinsing the peaches and tomatoes under cool water. Slice the peaches into wedges and halve the tomatoes to make them easier to eat. Don’t forget to thinly slice the red onion and set it aside for later.
2. Combine in a Bowl:
In a large salad bowl, add the peach slices, halved tomatoes, and red onion slices. This colorful mix will make your salad look so inviting!
3. Add the Creamy Feta:
Next, crumble the feta cheese evenly over the salad. The creamy texture will pair perfectly with the sweet peaches and tangy tomatoes.
4. Top with Fresh Basil:
Now sprinkle the fresh basil leaves on top. They add a wonderful fragrance and flavor that elevates the whole dish!
5. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Vinegar:
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil all over the salad. If you enjoy a tangy kick, drizzle on the balsamic vinegar too for extra flavor.
6. Toss Gently:
With clean hands or salad tongs, gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients without bruising the peaches. Take care to keep it light and fluffy!
7. Season to Taste:
Finally, season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust if you need a bit more seasoning!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your beautiful Easy Peach Feta Salad immediately for the freshest flavor. It’s a delightful way to enjoy summer ingredients, perfect as a side dish or light lunch!
This fresh, vibrant salad highlights the sweet juiciness of peaches paired with the salty feta and aromatic basil, making it a delicious addition to any meal. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Peach Feta Salad
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
While fresh peaches are best for flavor and texture, you can use canned peaches in a pinch. Just make sure they are packed in juice or water, and drain them well before adding to the salad to avoid excess moisture.
What Other Dressings Can I Use?
If you want to switch up the dressing, a simple lemon vinaigrette, honey mustard dressing, or even a yogurt-based dressing would work wonderfully, enhancing the flavors of the salad.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. The peaches may get a bit soft, so if you have extras, consider adding them to smoothies or blending them into yogurt!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other ingredients like avocados, nuts (like walnuts or pistachios), or even grilled chicken for added protein. Get creative based on what you love or have on hand!
