This colorful peach feta salad is a refreshing mix of juicy peaches, creamy feta, and bright herbs. It’s perfect for warm days or as a light side dish!
The sweet peaches and salty feta create a tasty surprise in each bite. I like to add a sprinkle of mint for a fresh twist—it’s like summer on a plate! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are essential for sweetness. If they’re out of season, consider using nectarines or canned peaches in juice (drained) as alternatives.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using mixed color tomatoes for extra vibrancy. If you can’t find them, any small tomato will work, or even swap for diced larger tomatoes.
Feta Cheese: Great for its creamy, salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using a vegan feta or almond feta which can mimic the taste well.
Fresh Herbs: Basil and mint are my favorites here. If mint isn’t available, fresh parsley or cilantro can add a nice touch instead.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil really enhances the flavor. In a pinch, any neutral oil can work or even avocado oil for a twist.
How Do I Avoid Soggy Salad Greens?
To keep your salad fresh and crunchy, follow these tips:
- Wash and dry your herbs thoroughly to remove excess moisture. A salad spinner works wonders!
- Combine the dressing ingredients separately before drizzling, so you’re not adding liquid to the salad mix directly.
- Serve the salad immediately after tossing to maintain the crunch of the peaches and veggies.
Easy Peach Feta Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (use mixed colors if possible)
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice or white balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. With no cooking required, it’s a quick and refreshing dish to assemble for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by slicing the ripe peaches into wedges. Combine them in a large salad bowl with the halved cherry or grape tomatoes and the thinly sliced red onion. These colorful ingredients will create a lovely base for your salad.
2. Add the Cheese and Herbs:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad mix. Then, add the chopped basil and mint leaves evenly across the top. The fresh herbs will add a wonderful fragrance and flavor!
3. Drizzle with Dressing:
In this step, drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice (or white balsamic vinegar) over the salad ingredients. This will give everything a nice shine and enhance the flavors.
4. Toss Gently:
Now, it’s time to gently toss everything together! Use a large spoon to mix the salad carefully, making sure you don’t break up the peaches or feta too much—just enough to combine the flavors.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Serve it immediately as a refreshing side or as a light main dish. Enjoy this delightful mix of sweet, salty, and fresh flavors!
This salad perfectly balances the sweetness of peaches with the creaminess of feta and bright, fresh herbs, making it a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare!
FAQ for Easy Peach Feta Salad with Fresh Herbs
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute them with plums, nectarines, or even sliced pears for a similar sweetness and texture.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based feta alternative. You can also try adding avocado for creaminess instead!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Slice the peaches and veggies, then store them separately in airtight containers. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The salad may get a bit soggy over time, so it’s best to eat it fresh!
