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Refreshing Summer Peach Salad Recipe

Refreshing Summer Peach Salad Recipe

A vibrant, sweet, and savory salad featuring fresh peaches, creamy goat cheese, toasted pecans, and a light balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or summer side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: American, Contemporary
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 5 cups Mixed Greens (e.g., Arugula and Spring Mix)
  • 3 medium Fresh Peaches Ripe, sliced
  • 4 oz Goat Cheese Crumbled
  • 1/2 cup Pecans Roughly chopped and toasted
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Thinly sliced
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh Basil or Mint Chopped
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 3 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tsp Honey or Maple Syrup
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/8 tsp Black Pepper

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the pecans: Heat a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped pecans and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant. Remove immediately from the pan and set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together (or shake) the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  3. Assemble the base: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the mixed greens, sliced red onion, and chopped fresh herbs.
  4. Dress the greens: Drizzle about half of the prepared vinaigrette over the greens mixture. Toss gently to coat the leaves lightly. Avoid over-dressing at this stage.
  5. Layer and finish: Arrange the dressed greens onto individual plates or a large serving platter. Artfully arrange the peach slices over the greens. Sprinkle evenly with the crumbled goat cheese and the toasted pecans.
  6. Serve immediately: Drizzle any remaining vinaigrette lightly over the peaches and cheese just before serving for added flavor and shine.

Notes

For extra richness, add 4 oz of thinly sliced prosciutto or grilled chicken breast. If peaches are not perfectly ripe, lightly grill the slices for 1 minute per side to enhance their sweetness.