This Fresh Peach Feta Salad is a colorful mix of sweet peaches, crumbly feta cheese, and crisp greens, all drizzled with a yummy honey dressing. It’s perfect for sunny days!
Honestly, who knew salad could taste this good? 🥗🍑 The sweet and salty combo makes it hard to resist. I love having it as a light lunch or a side dish at barbecues. Enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: The star of this salad! Choose ripe peaches for the best flavor; they should be slightly soft to the touch. If peaches are out of season, nectarines or even ripe plums can be delicious substitutes.
Mixed Salad Greens: I love using a combination of arugula, spinach, and romaine for a mix of flavors and textures. Other greens like kale or spring mix can also work well. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tang to the salad. You could use goat cheese for a creamier texture or even a vegan feta if you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives.
Honey: This is for the dressing’s sweetness. If you prefer, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup as a substitute for a vegan option.
How Do I Make a Vinaigrette That Stays Mixed?
Making a vinaigrette that doesn’t separate can be tricky. The key is to emulsify the ingredients, which basically means mixing oil and vinegar until they blend well together. Here’s how:
- Start with the vinegar (like apple cider) and add mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to a bowl.
- Whisk these ingredients together until combined.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This helps blend the oil with the vinegar.
For a creamier dressing, consider adding a bit of Greek yogurt to the mix! Plus, always whisk right before using to keep it well-mixed.
Fresh Peach Feta Salad with Honey Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 fresh ripe peaches, sliced
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
For the Honey Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a healthy lunch or a delightful side dish at dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Honey Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is nice and blended. This dressing is delicious and adds a sweet touch to the salad, so set it aside for now!
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
Grab a large salad bowl or a beautiful serving platter. Arrange the mixed salad greens at the bottom, creating a lovely base for all those yummy toppings.
3. Add Toppings:
Now it’s time to make it pretty! Lay the sliced peaches on top of the greens, followed by the crumbled feta cheese and the thinly sliced red onions. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them on for an extra crunch.
4. Drizzle with Dressing:
Gently drizzle the honey dressing over the top of the salad, ensuring you cover everything evenly with that sweet goodness.
5. Toss or Layer:
Just before serving, you can either gently toss the salad to mix everything together or leave it layered for a beautiful presentation. Both ways are delicious!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add some fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful mix of sweet peaches and tangy feta combined perfectly with the honey dressing!
FAQ for Fresh Peach Feta Salad with Honey Dressing
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can use canned peaches if fresh ones aren’t available. Just be sure to drain them well and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the salad. Keep in mind that fresh peaches will give a brighter flavor and texture!
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately. Keep the greens, peaches, and toppings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the honey dressing a day in advance. Just store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Give it a good shake or stir before using to recombine the ingredients!
What Are Some Good Substitutes for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives to feta cheese, goat cheese works well for a creamy texture, or you can use crumbled cotija for a similar salty flavor. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan feta made from nuts or tofu!
