This refreshing Millionaire Peach Salad is a blend of juicy peaches, crisp greens, and crunchy nuts, all tossed with a light dressing. It’s a treat that feels fancy but is super easy to make!
I love how the sweet peaches shine in this salad. It’s a perfect side for summer barbecues or just a great way to brighten up your lunch! 🍑🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are the star of this salad! They add a natural sweetness. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or apricots can be great substitutes.
Mixed Salad Greens: A mix of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine gives a nice variety of texture and flavor. You can swap in your favorite greens like kale or lettuce if needed.
Candied Pecans or Walnuts: These add a sweet crunch. If you can’t find candied nuts, plain nuts toasted in a bit of honey work just as well. Almonds are a tasty alternative too!
Cheese: Goat cheese offers a creamy tanginess, but feta cheese is just as delightful. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a nut-based cheese instead.
Dried Fruits: Dried cranberries add sweetness and color. Raisins are a good alternative, or try using chopped dried cherries or figs for different flavors.
What’s the Best Way to Toss a Salad Evenly?
Tossing the salad evenly is key to a great mix of flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with the salad greens at the bottom to create a base.
- Add in the toppings, evenly spaced, so nothing clumps together.
- Drizzle the dressing over the top just before serving.
- Use a pair of salad tongs or your hands to lift and mix the greens and toppings gently.
- Avoid vigorous stirring, as it can bruise delicate greens and break down the peaches.
With these steps, every bite will be coated in delicious dressing and packed with flavors!
Fresh and Sweet Millionaire Peach Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 fresh ripe peaches, sliced
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as baby spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1/2 cup candied pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or mint leaves, chopped
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious and refreshing salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a quick side dish or a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar (or white balsamic vinegar), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined and set aside.
2. Prepare the Greens:
Take your mixed salad greens and wash them thoroughly. Make sure to spin them dry in a salad spinner or pat them down with a paper towel. Once dried, place them in a large salad bowl, creating a beautiful base for your salad.
3. Add the Tasty Ingredients:
Now it’s time to layer on the goodness! Add your sliced peaches, candied pecans or walnuts, crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese, dried cranberries or raisins, and optional red onion slices. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the fresh basil or mint leaves too!
4. Optional Sweet Grapes:
If you want to add even more sweetness, toss in the halved grapes. They add a lovely burst of flavor with each bite!
5. Drizzle and Toss:
Drizzle your dressing over all the ingredients in the salad bowl. Using salad tongs or two large forks, gently toss everything together. Make sure the dressing coats the greens and toppings evenly for a delicious flavor in every bite!
6. Serve Fresh:
Enjoy this vibrant salad right away as a delightful side or a light meal. It’s best served fresh to really appreciate the flavors and textures!
Dig into this charming Millionaire Peach Salad and savor the sweet, crunchy, and creamy combination that makes it so special! Enjoy! 🌟
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches are the star of this salad, you can swap them for other fruits like nectarines, plums, or even berries for a different twist. Just make sure the fruit you choose is ripe and sweet for the best flavor!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing, and use a plant-based cheese alternative instead of goat cheese or feta. You’ll still enjoy a delicious flavor without any animal products!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store them separately. Keep the salad greens and toppings in an airtight container, and store the dressing in another container. This will help prevent the greens from getting soggy. Enjoy leftovers within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prepare most of the ingredients in advance! Slice the peaches and make the dressing a few hours ahead and refrigerate them. Just assemble the salad right before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp!
