This Fresh Blueberry Peach Feta Salad is a colorful mix of juicy peaches, sweet blueberries, and crumbly feta cheese. It’s refreshing and perfect for hot days!
Every bite feels like summer! I love how the fruity sweetness plays with the salty feta. It’s a salad that seriously makes you want to smile! 😊
I enjoy serving this salad with grilled chicken for a tasty meal. It’s super easy to whip up, and the flavors go perfectly together. Trust me, you’ll want to make it again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are sweet and juicy, making them perfect for this salad. If peaches are out of season, nectarines can be a great substitute, offering a similar flavor and texture.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries bring a burst of sweetness. You can swap them for raspberries or sliced strawberries if you prefer. Frozen berries also work in a pinch; just thaw them first!
Cucumbers: I love using English cucumbers for their crispness, but even regular cucumbers work. If you’re looking for a twist, try adding diced avocados for creaminess instead!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based feta. For a different flavor, goat cheese is also delicious!
Fresh Basil: Basil complements the sweetness of the fruits beautifully. If you don’t have basil, fresh mint or parsley can offer a different but lovely flavor profile.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Ingredients for this Salad?
You want to make sure each ingredient is fresh and ready to shine in this salad. Here’s how to prepare your ingredients:
- For the peaches, slice them in half, remove the pit, and dice the flesh while keeping the skin on for extra nutrients.
- Wash the blueberries gently; they bruise easily. A quick rinse under cold water and a pat dry is all you need.
- When slicing your cucumber, decide if you’d like them round or long strips. Either way, make sure they’re uniform in size for even texture.
- If your feta isn’t crumbled, use a fork to crumble it gently, ensuring it doesn’t turn into mush.
These steps help maintain a nice balance of flavors and textures in your salad, making each bite delightful!
Fresh Blueberry Peach Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fruits and Vegetables:
- 2 ripe peaches, diced (skin on)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup cucumbers, sliced (preferably English cucumber)
For the Cheese:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Garnish:
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend some time washing and chopping the ingredients, but overall, it’s a quick and easy dish to throw together. If you let it chill for 15-20 minutes after tossing, the flavors will meld even more deliciously!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by washing your peaches, blueberries, cucumber, and basil leaves under cold water. Make sure to dry them gently with a towel. This will keep everything fresh and clean!
2. Chop and Dice:
Next, dice the peaches into bite-sized pieces while keeping the skin on for added nutrition and texture. Slice the cucumbers into medium rounds. If your feta cheese isn’t pre-crumbled, use a fork to crumble it and make it ready for the salad.
3. Combine the Basics:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced peaches, fresh blueberries, and cucumber slices. This colorful mix already looks delicious!
4. Add the Creamy Feta and Basil:
Now, add the crumbled feta cheese and tear the fresh basil leaves over the mix. The aroma is going to be amazing! You can gently fold them in with a spatula to keep everything nice and intact.
5. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), and fresh lemon juice until they’re well combined. This will create a smooth and tasty dressing!
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and notice how it brings everything together. Gently toss the salad to make sure everything is coated evenly with the dressing.
7. Season and Serve:
Now, add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Give it one last gentle toss. You can serve the salad right away or let it chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes so the flavors have a chance to blend.
This Fresh Blueberry Peach Feta Salad is light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for a summer gathering, a light lunch, or as a delicious side dish. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Fresh Blueberry Peach Feta Salad
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match based on what you have. Strawberries, raspberries, or even diced apples can work well if peaches or blueberries aren’t available. Just remember to balance sweet and tart flavors!
Is It Possible to Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative. You could also add some toasted nuts or seeds for additional texture and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumbers may release water as it sits, so it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal crunch!
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can whisk the dressing ingredients together and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before drizzling it over the salad to mix the ingredients again!
