This Fresh Arugula Salad is a tasty mix of peppery arugula, sweet peaches, and creamy goat cheese. It’s like a party in your mouth with every bite!
Throw in some nuts for a nice crunch! I love to serve it as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. It’s so simple, and it makes you feel fancy without much effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: This peppery green is the star of the salad. If you can’t find arugula, baby spinach or mixed greens work well too for a different twist.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches add sweetness. If peaches aren’t in season, try nectarines or even ripe pears for a similar effect.
Goat Cheese: Creamy goat cheese gives a tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, feta or blue cheese are great alternatives, adding their own unique taste.
Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch. You can also use almonds or sunflower seeds if you want a different texture.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for flavor! If you don’t have balsamic, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can substitute nicely.
How Do I Get the Dressing Just Right?
Making a good dressing enhances your salad’s flavor. You want it well-balanced, so here’s a quick guide:
- Start with a 2:1 ratio of oil to vinegar. That means for every 2 tablespoons of olive oil, use 1 tablespoon of vinegar.
- Add honey or maple syrup to sweeten it up. Just a teaspoon usually does the trick!
- Whisk everything together in a small bowl. Taste it! You want it tasty but not overwhelming.
If it’s too acidic, add more oil. If it’s too oily, a splash more vinegar might help!
Fresh Arugula Salad with Peaches and Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh arugula salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy to put together, making it perfect for a light lunch or an elegant side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, gently add the washed arugula and peach slices. You want to keep the arugula nice and fluffy, so be careful not to crush it!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. This will create a delicious dressing that brings the flavors together. Taste it to make sure you love it!
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the arugula and peaches. Using your hands or a large spoon, toss everything together gently so that the arugula and peaches are nicely coated but not damaged.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and toasted nuts (if you’re using them) on top of the salad. They will add a creamy and crunchy texture that complements the salad beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy this fresh, flavorful salad that brings a taste of summer to your table!
Can I Substitute Other Greens for Arugula?
Absolutely! If you don’t have arugula, you can use baby spinach, mixed greens, or even kale. Just keep in mind that each green will bring a different flavor to the salad. Spinach will be milder, while kale is heartier and can take a bit of massaging to soften.
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 to drain and rinse them well to remove excess syrup, and pat them dry to keep the salad from becoming too soggy.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container, but keep the dressing separate to avoid wilting the greens. Enjoy the salad within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to wait to dress the salad until just before serving. This will keep the arugula crisp and the peaches fresh!
