This Simple Peach Feta Salad is a bright mix of juicy peaches, creamy feta cheese, and fresh greens. It’s the perfect dish for a sunny day, with flavors that burst in your mouth!
I love how easy this salad is to whip up. Just chop, toss, and enjoy! It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or is great all on its own. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star of this salad, offering sweetness and juicy texture. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or plums can work as a substitute while still providing that lovely fruitiness.
Cherry Tomatoes: The cherry tomatoes add a burst of color and sweetness. You can swap them for diced regular tomatoes, or even diced cucumbers for a refreshing twist if desired.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a creamy and tangy element to the dish. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using crumbled tofu or a dairy-free feta alternative to maintain that similar taste.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a fragrant note that complements the other flavors. If fresh basil isn’t available, fresh mint or parsley can be good alternatives that still bring a bright taste.
How Do I Prepare the Perfect Peach Feta Salad?
Assembling this salad is straightforward, but a few careful steps can make all the difference. First, ensure you’re using ripe peaches; this ensures flavor and sweetness.
- Wash the peaches gently but thoroughly, then slice them into wedges. Aim for even slices for a balanced presentation.
- When cutting the cherry tomatoes, cut them in half to enhance their flavor and help them pair better with the other ingredients.
- Slice the red onion thinly so it doesn’t overpower the salad. If you find it too pungent, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes before adding them.
- Be gentle when tossing the salad. This keeps the feta intact and maintains the shape of the peaches and tomatoes.
- Don’t skip on letting it chill before serving! This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Simple Peach Feta Salad with Fresh Flavors
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (mixed colors if desired), halved
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy—perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish at dinner. Once you’ve prepped everything, you can serve it immediately or let it chill for a few minutes to meld the flavors together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing the peaches and cherry tomatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Slice the peaches into wedges, making sure they are ripe and juicy. Next, halve the cherry tomatoes to allow their sweetness to shine. Then, thinly slice the red onion; if you find it too strong, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes before adding.
2. Combine the Fruits and Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, put together the sliced peaches, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. This colorful mixture will be a feast for the eyes!
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the fruits and vegetables. This combination will brighten the flavors and add a deliciously fresh touch.
4. Toss Gently:
Using two large spoons or your hands, toss everything together gently. You want to coat all the pieces without bruising the peaches or crumbling the feta too much.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and thinly sliced basil leaves over the top of the salad. The herbaceous basil enhances the overall flavor, making it so fragrant and delicious.
6. Season and Serve:
Lightly season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last gentle toss just before serving to ensure that all the ingredients are mixed evenly. You can serve it immediately for the freshest flavor or let it chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes if you prefer a cooler dish!
This salad is a delightful combination of juicy peaches, sweet tomatoes, and creamy feta, perfect for warm days or as a tasty side. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Grilled Peaches in This Salad?
Absolutely! Grilling peaches adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Simply slice the peaches, grill them for a couple of minutes on each side until they have grill marks, and then add them to the salad. This adds a delightful twist!
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the salad may become watery over time due to the tomatoes and dressing. If you want to keep it fresh, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
Is There a Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try crumbled goat cheese or ricotta for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, vegan feta is available and can give a similar flavor profile without the dairy.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Slice the peaches and tomatoes, and store them separately in the fridge. Toss everything together with the dressing and feta about 30 minutes before serving to ensure maximum freshness and flavor!
