There’s nothing quite like biting into a juicy peach at the height of its season. This Peach Arugula Salad brings together fresh, peppery greens with ripe peaches for a simple yet vibrant dish you’ll crave all summer.
Peach Arugula Salad
Equipment
- 1 Large salad bowl
- 1 Small bowl for dressing
- 1 Whisk for dressing
Ingredients
- 5 oz fresh arugula baby or mature, washed and dried
- 2 ripe peaches sliced (nectarines work too)
- 0.5 cup feta cheese crumbled (or goat cheese)
- 0.33 cup pecans or walnuts toasted, roughly chopped, or use almonds or sunflower seeds
- 0.25 red onion thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 0.5 tsp alcohol-free vanilla optional, adds depth
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper fresh ground
Instructions
Assemble the Salad
- Wash and dry the arugula, then place it in a large salad bowl. Slice the peaches thinly, removing the pits.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, alcohol-free vanilla if using, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sliced peaches, red onion, crumbled feta, and toasted nuts to the arugula. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is coated.
- Transfer to a serving platter or individual plates. Enjoy right away while the peaches are fresh and juicy.
Notes
Nutrition
Why You’ll Love This Peach Arugula Salad
This salad is as refreshing as it is beautiful. The sweet peaches and tangy dressing pair perfectly with arugula’s peppery bite. It’s quick to whip up for lunch or as a colorful side for dinner parties.
Peach Arugula Salad Ingredients & Substitutions
- Fresh arugula (baby or mature)
- Ripe peaches, sliced (nectarines work too)
- Crumbled feta cheese (try goat cheese instead)
- Pecans or walnuts, toasted (swap for almonds or sunflower seeds)
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Honey
- Alcohol-free vanilla (optional, adds depth)
- Salt and black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Peach Arugula Salad
Step 1: Prepare the greens and fruit
Wash and dry the arugula, then place it in a large salad bowl. Slice the peaches thinly, removing the pits.
Step 2: Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, alcohol-free vanilla if using, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the salad
Add the sliced peaches, red onion, crumbled feta, and toasted nuts to the arugula. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is coated.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer to a serving platter or individual plates. Enjoy right away while the peaches are fresh and juicy.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe but firm peaches for the perfect sweet bite.
- Toss just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- Toasting the nuts really brings out their flavor and adds crunch.
Variations of Peach Arugula Salad
- Add grilled or rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal.
- Swap peaches for sliced strawberries or figs when available.
- Use goat cheese or a mild blue cheese for a different creamy note.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Peach Arugula Salad
- Pair alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light, summery dinner.
- Serve as a starter at a brunch or picnic.
- Try with crusty bread and olive tapenade for a Mediterranean touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
- If you need to make ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 1 day but may become a bit wilted.
Memories Made Around the Table
There’s something about sharing this salad outside, with laughter and clinking glasses, that makes summer memories extra sweet.
FAQs
Can I use canned or frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Fresh peaches offer the best flavor and texture, but in a pinch, well-drained canned or thawed frozen peaches can work.
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
You can prepare all the components ahead, but wait to toss them together until just before serving for the best freshness.
What greens can I use instead of arugula?
Baby spinach, mixed greens, or even baby kale can be delicious substitutes if arugula isn’t your favorite.
Final Thoughts
Simple, stunning, and packed with flavor, this Peach Arugula Salad is the perfect taste of summer on your table. Let the fresh ingredients shine and savor every bite!