Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Millionaire Peach Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines juicy, sweet peaches with a mix of fresh greens, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy nuts, all brought together with a tangy dressing. It’s the ideal summer salad, perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or a special addition to any gathering. The contrast between the sweet peaches, creamy goat cheese, and the crunch of toasted nuts creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. It’s simple, but it feels like a luxury!
Ingredients
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2 ripe peaches (sliced)
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4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or baby kale)
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1/4 cup goat cheese (crumbled)
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1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
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1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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1 teaspoon honey
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste and set aside.
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Toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Be sure to stir them frequently to avoid burning.
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In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced peaches, crumbled goat cheese, and red onion.
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Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, making sure all ingredients are well-coated.
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Top the salad with the toasted nuts for an extra crunch and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 5 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Add protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sliced steak.
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Cheese swap: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try feta or blue cheese as a substitute.
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Vegan version: Skip the cheese and swap the honey in the dressing for maple syrup or agave.
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Different fruits: While peaches are the star, you can swap them out for nectarines, plums, or even strawberries for a different twist.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: This salad is best served fresh, but you can store the leftover greens and fruit (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
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Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this salad, as it’s served chilled or at room temperature. Just be sure to add the dressing and toasted nuts right before serving to keep them crisp.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen peaches for this salad?
Fresh peaches provide the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen peaches if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
2. What other nuts can I use besides pecans or walnuts?
You can use almonds, pistachios, or even cashews for a different flavor and crunch.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
4. Can I use a different type of vinegar for the dressing?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if you don’t have balsamic vinegar.
5. How can I make this salad spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes to the dressing or include a few slices of fresh jalapeños for a spicy kick.
6. Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, the dressing can be made up to 2-3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good whisk before using.
7. Can I add more fruit to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add berries, citrus segments, or even sliced apples for added freshness and sweetness.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feta, ricotta, or even a creamy brie would work as an alternative to goat cheese.
9. How do I make the salad gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the nuts you use are gluten-free. Just be sure to check labels if you’re concerned.
10. Can I use a store-bought dressing?
Yes, you can use a store-bought balsamic vinaigrette if you’re short on time, but homemade dressing will add a personal touch.
Conclusion
The Millionaire Peach Salad is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re serving it for a casual lunch or as an elegant side for a dinner party, this salad is sure to stand out. With its refreshing peaches, creamy goat cheese, and toasted nuts, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make over and over again during peach season. Enjoy the luxurious taste in every bite!
Millionaire Peach Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
The Millionaire Peach Salad is a refreshing, luxurious dish that blends juicy peaches, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted nuts. This vibrant salad is perfect for summer, whether as a light lunch, side dish for a barbecue, or an elegant addition to any gathering. With a tangy balsamic honey dressing, it offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that everyone will love. Simple yet sophisticated, this salad will elevate any meal!
Ingredients
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2 ripe peaches (sliced)
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4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or baby kale)
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1/4 cup goat cheese (crumbled)
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1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
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1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Set aside.
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Toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown and fragrant.
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In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced peaches, crumbled goat cheese, and red onion.
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Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
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Top with the toasted nuts for a crunchy texture and serve immediately.
Notes
For added protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak.Try feta or blue cheese as an alternative to goat cheese.For a vegan version, skip the cheese and replace honey with maple syrup or agave.Experiment with other fruits like nectarines, plums, or strawberries for a fun twist.To keep the salad fresh, store components separately and assemble just before serving.
