When summer arrives, nothing beats a refreshing salad bursting with flavor. That’s where my Millionaire Peach Salad comes in! This dish blends juicy peaches, creamy mozzarella, and crunchy candied pecans for a vibrant, mouthwatering treat. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or craving a light meal, this salad is a showstopper. Let’s dive into the fresh ingredients and simple steps to create your new summer favorite!
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients for Summer
– Ripe Peaches: Choose 4 ripe peaches. They should be soft and fragrant. Slice them into wedges for the salad. Fresh peaches add sweetness and juiciness.
– Mozzarella Balls: Use 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls, known as bocconcini. They bring a creamy texture that pairs well with the peaches.
– Greens and Herbs: You’ll need 1 cup of arugula or a mix of leafy greens. This adds a peppery flavor. Also, grab 2 tablespoons of fresh basil, chopped. This herb gives a bright, fresh taste.
Pantry Staples
– Candied Pecans: You’ll want ½ cup of candied pecans, roughly chopped. They add crunch and a sweet, nutty flavor.
– Feta Cheese: Use ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese. This cheese adds a salty kick that balances the sweetness of the peaches.
– Olive Oil and Seasonings: For the dressing, mix 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. This simple dressing enhances the salad’s fresh flavors.
All these ingredients make up the perfect blend for the Millionaire Peach Salad. For the full recipe, follow the steps closely to create this refreshing delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Salad Base
Mixing the Fresh Ingredients
Start by slicing four ripe peaches. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Place these peach slices in a large mixing bowl. Next, add one cup of fresh mozzarella balls. You can use bocconcini for a nice touch. Then, toss in one cup of arugula or mixed leafy greens. Finally, add two tablespoons of freshly chopped basil. This mix gives the salad a fresh taste.
Adding the Cheese and Nuts
Now it’s time for the cheese and nuts. Sprinkle in half a cup of crumbled feta cheese. This adds a creamy texture. Then, toss in half a cup of roughly chopped candied pecans. They give a nice crunch and sweetness to the dish. Gently mix everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined.
Making the Dressing
Whisking the Ingredients Together
In a small bowl, combine two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil with one tablespoon of lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and some freshly cracked black pepper. Use a whisk to blend everything well. This dressing will enhance the salad’s flavors.
Adjusting for Taste
Taste the dressing to see if it needs anything. If you want more tang, add a bit more lemon juice. For extra richness, a touch more olive oil works well. Adjust to your liking for the best flavor.
Combining and Serving
Tossing Everything Together
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until the salad is coated. This helps every bite taste amazing. Then, add the chopped candied pecans again for extra crunch. Give it one last gentle toss to make sure they are evenly spread.
Presentation Guidelines
Let the salad sit for about five minutes. This allows the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, use a large platter or individual bowls. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of pecans on top. This makes the dish look appealing and ready to impress. For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Customizing the Recipe
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have. Use burrata cheese instead of mozzarella for a creamier texture. If you can’t find arugula, mixed greens work well too. You can also try walnuts if pecans are not available. They add a nice crunch.
Flavor Enhancements
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth. Honey drizzled on top can add a sweet note. Fresh mint can also brighten up the salad. Experiment with spices like cayenne for a kick.
Making Ahead
Prepping Ingredients in Advance
You can chop peaches and greens a few hours before serving. Keep them in separate containers. This keeps them fresh and crisp. Mix the dressing ahead of time, too. Just shake it up before adding to the salad.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge and enjoy within two days. If the salad gets too soggy, serve it over fresh greens. This gives it a nice bounce back.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Summer Dishes
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. It can also be a side dish for barbecues. Serve it alongside corn on the cob or potato salad for a fun meal.
Ideal Occasions for This Salad
Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or backyard barbecues. This salad brightens up any summer gathering. You can also serve it as a light lunch or a refreshing starter. Enjoying it on a sunny day makes it even better!
Variations
Different Seasonal Fruits
You can switch up the fruits in Millionaire Peach Salad. Adding berries makes it sweeter and colorful. Try blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries. They pair well with peaches and add a burst of flavor.
Melons are another great choice. Cantaloupe or watermelon brings a refreshing crunch. Just cut them into small pieces and mix them in. This will give your salad a fun twist.
For a tropical vibe, add mango. The juicy sweetness of ripe mango balances the salad’s flavors. Slice a fresh mango and toss it in for a lively touch.
Protein Options
Looking to add protein? Grilled chicken or shrimp works perfectly. Cook them simply with salt and pepper. Slice them and mix them into the salad. This addition makes it heartier and more filling.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, quinoa is a great choice. Cooked quinoa adds texture and protein. Just mix in about a cup of cooked quinoa for a healthy twist.
Dressing Alternatives
You can try different dressings to change the flavor. Balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy sweetness. Just drizzle it over the salad instead of the lemon dressing.
Citrus-based dressings are also a hit. Use orange juice or lime juice for a fresh taste. Mix these with olive oil for a bright and zesty dressing.
Explore these variations to make your Millionaire Peach Salad unique and delightful. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe. You want to enjoy this delightful salad for days. When stored properly, it lasts about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. However, the texture may change, especially with the mozzarella and greens. They can become a bit soggy over time. If you want the best taste, eat it within the first day.
Freezing Considerations
Can you freeze this salad? I do not recommend freezing it. Freezing can ruin the texture of fresh ingredients. Peaches and greens lose their crunch and become mushy. However, you can freeze some components separately.
To freeze components, slice peaches and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag. This works well for smoothies too! You can also freeze the candied pecans. Just ensure they are stored in a sealed bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready, just thaw and add to your salad.
FAQs
What is Millionaire Peach Salad?
Millionaire Peach Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish. It features ripe peaches, creamy mozzarella, and crunchy pecans. This salad brings summer flavors to life. I drew inspiration from classic summer salads that highlight seasonal fruits. The mix of sweet and savory makes it a real crowd-pleaser. You can enjoy it as a main dish or a side. Trust me, this salad is perfect for any summer gathering.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time! To prepare it in advance, slice the peaches and mix them with other fresh ingredients. However, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the salad stays crisp. Store the salad ingredients in the fridge, covered. The flavors will blend nicely if you let it sit for a bit. Just remember to add the candied pecans just before serving for extra crunch.
What are some good pairings for this salad?
Millionaire Peach Salad pairs well with many dishes. I suggest serving it with grilled chicken or fish for a hearty meal. It also goes great with a light pasta dish or a charcuterie board. For drinks, try a chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea. The salad’s bright flavors complement these options beautifully. Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect pairings!
How do I make this salad vegan?
Making this salad vegan is easy! Simply replace the mozzarella and feta with non-dairy cheese. Look for options made from nuts or soy to achieve a similar taste. For the dressing, use a vegan olive oil or a citrus-based dressing. You can also skip the cheese altogether and add more nuts or seeds for texture. This keeps the salad fresh and bright while catering to vegan diets.
This blog shows how to make a fresh, tasty salad perfect for summer. You learned about key ingredients like ripe peaches and mozzarella. I shared steps for mixing, dressing, and serving. Useful tips help you prepare ahead and customize flavors. Variations let you add fruits or proteins.
In the end, this salad is easy and fun. Enjoy making it your own!
