Fresh Peach Salad with Feta and Arugula

I came up with this salad one sticky July afternoon after a run to the farmer’s market that turned into a fruit-fueled impulse buy. Peaches, more than I could carry. Some didn’t survive the walk home—juiced all over my forearms like summer should. So I built a salad around them. I needed something fast and cold. Something that made me feel like I was on a back porch somewhere south of sane with a cold drink and no plans. And I promise you, this one delivers. Whether you’re grilling burgers, nursing a hangover, or just trying to keep the oven off, this peach salad has your back.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No cooking required—just chop, toss, and serve.
• Perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and fresh.
• Ready in under 15 minutes.
• Crowd-pleaser for BBQs, picnics, or potlucks.
• Easily customizable with add-ins or substitutions.

Ingredients

Salad

• 4 ripe peaches, sliced
• 5 oz baby arugula
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (a handful, torn)

Dressing

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Wash and slice the peaches—no need to peel unless the fuzz bugs you.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, peach slices, red onion, feta, and basil.
3. If using nuts, toast them in a dry pan for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Let cool and add to the bowl.
4. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately, preferably outdoors with something cold in hand.

Tips & Variations

• Swap arugula with spinach or mixed greens if you like a milder base.
• Goat cheese can replace feta for a creamier texture.
• Add grilled chicken or prosciutto to make it a full meal.
• Throw in blueberries or cherry tomatoes for extra color and bite.
• Make it vegan by skipping the cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

Note

Don’t overdress the salad. Too much vinaigrette and those peaches will drown. Drizzle lightly and add more if needed after a taste test.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs like a dream with grilled meats—especially pork chops or chicken. It also plays well next to crusty bread, a hunk of brie, and a cold glass of white wine. Serve it as a side at your next cookout or make it the main event with a protein boost.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugar: 13g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg

User Reviews/Comments

“I made this for a family BBQ and it was gone in minutes. Even the kids ate it!”

“Super easy and absolutely delicious. I added grilled shrimp on top and it turned out fantastic.”

“The combo of peach and feta is unreal. This one’s going in the regular summer rotation.”

FAQs

Can I make peach salad ahead of time?

You can prep the components in advance—slice the peaches, chop the onions, mix the dressing—but don’t toss everything together until right before serving. The arugula will wilt and the peaches can get mushy if they sit too long in the vinaigrette.

What if peaches aren’t in season?

If you’re craving this salad out of season, swap fresh peaches with high-quality canned or jarred peaches (in juice, not syrup). Just be sure to drain them well and maybe skip the honey in the dressing. They’ll still bring that sweet punch you’re looking for.

How do I pick ripe peaches?

Look for peaches that give slightly when you press them gently. They should smell sweet and feel heavy for their size. Avoid anything rock-hard or overly bruised.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely. Goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shaved parmesan can work here. Each one changes the vibe a little—goat cheese makes it creamier, blue adds funk, parmesan brings umami.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yep—just double-check any cheese or vinaigrette ingredients you use if you’re super sensitive. Otherwise, this one’s safe for the gluten-free crowd.

Conclusion

This peach salad isn’t just a side dish—it’s a full-on summer experience in a bowl. It takes simple, honest ingredients and turns them into something that hits every damn note. Sweet, salty, fresh, and satisfying. It’s what you eat when you want to remember that food doesn’t have to be complicated to be beautiful. Whether you’re a die-hard peach lover or just someone trying to survive the heat without sweating over a stove, this one earns a spot in your lineup. For a deeper dive into the world of peaches, their history, and their cultural significance, check out this article on Wikipedia. Grab some ripe ones, get your hands dirty, and let the season do the talking.

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