This Fresh Blueberry Peach Salad is a yummy mix of sweet and juicy fruits, topped with creamy feta cheese. It’s colorful and perfect for warm days!
Every bite is like a little party in your mouth, especially when the salty feta meets the sweet fruit. I love tossing it together for a quick lunch or a fun side dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are key for their pop of sweetness. If they’re out of season, frozen blueberries work great, too. Just give them a quick rinse before using!
Peaches: Ripe peaches add juiciness. If you can’t find peaches, nectarines make a great substitute. They taste similar but have smooth skin.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a creamy, salty touch. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use crumbled tofu seasoned with a little salt or nutritional yeast for flavor.
Mixed Salad Greens: While I love arugula for its peppery taste, spinach or baby kale can also work. You can even use a simple bagged salad mix for convenience!
How Do I Make a Balanced Salad Dressing?
The dressing brings all the flavors together, so making it right is key. Start by balancing sweet and tangy. Here’s a simple method:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, a bit of Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until it’s combined and smooth. Taste it! Add more honey for sweetness or more lemon for tang.
- When dressing your salad, drizzle just enough to coat everything lightly; you can always add more if needed.
This dressing is refreshing and really complements the fruits and feta beautifully! Enjoy your tasty salad!
Fresh Blueberry Peach Salad with Feta Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep. This includes washing the fruits, slicing, and mixing everything together. The salad is best enjoyed right after it’s made, so there’s no chilling time required. Quick and easy, perfect for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing the blueberries and salad greens in cold water. Make sure to dry them thoroughly either with a salad spinner or patting them gently with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Slice the Peaches:
Next, take the peaches and slice them into thin wedges. Make sure to remove the pit first! The peach slices will add that delightful sweetness to your salad.
3. Combine Ingredients in a Bowl:
In a large salad bowl, mix together the salad greens, fresh blueberries, and the sliced peaches. If you decide to use red onion and nuts, go ahead and toss those in as well. It’s a colorful combination!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and has a smooth texture.
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and use salad tongs or two large spoons to toss gently. You want everything to be lightly coated without squishing the fruit.
6. Add Feta and Nuts:
Once tossed, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and any toasted nuts on top. This adds a lovely creaminess and crunch!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’re using fresh mint, chop it and sprinkle it over the salad for a refreshing touch. Serve the salad right away for the best flavor!
Enjoy every bite of this delightful salad, perfect for sunny days, picnics, or as a refreshing side at any meal!
FAQ for Fresh Blueberry Peach Salad with Feta Cheese
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just make sure they’re thawed and drained before adding them to the salad. This will prevent excess moisture from making the greens soggy.
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Peaches?
No problem! You can substitute fresh peaches with nectarines or even canned peaches packed in juice. Just make sure to drain them well if using canned!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup in the dressing instead of honey. You can also add avocado for creaminess and more nuts for protein!
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh since the greens may wilt. If storing, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
