This Easy Peach Feta Salad is a fresh and tasty dish perfect for summer! With juicy peaches, creamy feta, and crisp greens, it’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
I love how quick this salad comes together. Just toss everything in a bowl, and you’ve got a beautiful dish that feels fancy but is super simple to make. Perfect for picnics!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If peaches aren’t available, try nectarines or even plums for a similar taste. I find that yellow-fleshed peaches add a nice sweetness!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy tanginess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using almond or cashew feta. Goat cheese can also make a great substitute if you’re not a feta fan.
Cherry Tomatoes: Mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes adds color and sweetness. In a pinch, you can use regular tomatoes, just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces so they blend well.
Basil: Fresh basil enhances every flavor in this salad. If basil isn’t on hand, try using mint or even arugula for a peppery twist. Always feel free to adjust based on your preference!
What’s the Best Way to Slice Peaches Without Making a Mess?
Slicing peaches can be tricky because they can be juicy! Here’s how to slice them with ease:
- First, ensure your peaches are ripe but not mushy.
- Hold the peach upright on a cutting board and slice downward around the pit, rotating the peach as you go.
- Twist the two halves gently to separate them and remove the pit.
- Slice each half into wedges or chunks as desired, and work quickly to prevent browning.
Adding a squeeze of lemon juice right after slicing can help keep the peaches looking fresh. Enjoy this delightful salad experience!
Easy Peach Feta Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (a mix of red and yellow), halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Peach Feta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for warm summer days. Just chop, mix, and serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
Start by washing the peaches. Pat them dry with a paper towel and slice them into wedges. Make sure to remove the pit carefully!
2. Prepare the Tomatoes and Onion:
Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water and cut them in half. Then, thinly slice the red onion for a nice crunchy texture in the salad.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, mix together the sliced peaches, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. This will create a colorful base for your salad.
4. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the peach and onion mixture. Feta adds a delightful creaminess that pairs well with the sweetness of the peaches.
5. Top with Fresh Basil:
Add the chopped fresh basil leaves on top of the salad. The basil will bring in a wonderful herbal freshness!
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice (if you’re using it) over the salad. The lemon juice adds a nice zing that helps enhance the flavor.
7. Season It Up:
Sprinkle a little salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be careful with the salt, as feta is usually salty on its own.
8. Toss Gently:
Gently toss everything together to mix the flavors without crushing the peaches or breaking up the feta too much. Take your time so the salad stays pretty!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor, or chill briefly before serving if you prefer it cold. Enjoy this delicious summer salad!
This Easy Peach Feta Salad showcases the delightful sweetness of peaches, the tangy creaminess of feta, and the freshness of basil, making it a perfect light dish for any summer meal.
FAQ for Easy Peach Feta Salad Recipe
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches are out of season, try using nectarines or plums for a similar sweetness. Additionally, berries like strawberries or blueberries can add a nice twist to this salad.
How Do I Keep the Salad Fresh If I Make It Ahead of Time?
If you plan to prepare the salad in advance, store the ingredients separately. Keep the peaches, tomatoes, and onion in one container, the feta in another, and the dressing in a small jar. Combine everything just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent wilting.
What Should I Serve This Salad With?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, like chicken or fish, and can also be served alongside a crusty baguette or as part of a summer picnic spread. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!
How Do I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or leave it out entirely. Add some toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture and flavor!