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This Millionaire Peach Salad is my go-to for sweltering summer days when peaches are at their juiciest and every bite deserves to snap with freshness. It is a dish that transforms humble ingredients into something elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for any lazy lunch at home.
I first served this on a humid July afternoon for my family and was stunned by how quickly it vanished. It is so simple and yet always feels special.
Ingredients
- Ripe peaches: Choose peaches that yield slightly when pressed and have a fragrant aroma. They bring essential sweetness and juiciness to the salad
- Fresh mozzarella balls: Soft and mild the best you can find will make a difference Halve them for easier eating
- Arugula or mixed greens: Arugula gives a peppery bite but you can use your favorite mix Look for vibrant leaves with no wilting
- Walnuts: Toasted and chopped for crunch and a rich nutty flavor Toasting brings out their depth Use fresh walnuts for the best result
- Feta cheese: Crumbled for a salty creamy dimension Use a block of feta rather than pre-crumbled for fresher taste
- Fresh basil leaves: Torn to release their aroma Bright and herbal adds freshness to each bite
- Balsamic glaze: Drizzled for sweet tangy complexity Choose a thick aged glaze or simmer regular balsamic vinegar until syrupy
- Salt and pepper: Essential to bring all the flavors together Use flaky sea salt if you have it and freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Peaches:
- Wash peaches under cool running water making sure to handle them gently Slice in half remove pits and cut into even wedges for uniform bites and a pretty presentation
- Mix Salad Base:
- Place sliced peaches in a large salad bowl Add the halved mozzarella balls and your choice of arugula or mixed greens Gently mix them to distribute flavors and textures evenly
- Add the Toppings:
- Sprinkle in the toasted chopped walnuts crumbled feta cheese and torn basil leaves Scatter these so every serving gets a little of each ingredient
- Dress and Season:
- Drizzle balsamic glaze evenly over the top Do not coat everything at once as too much glaze can overpower the salad Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste
- Combine and Chill:
- Toss the salad gently with your hands or salad spoons just enough to mix the flavors without crushing the peaches or mozzarella Chill for ten to fifteen minutes in the fridge which helps everything meld together
- Serve:
- Transfer salad to individual plates or serve straight from the bowl Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness
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My favorite touch in this salad is the torn basil It perfumes every bite and reminds me of my grandmother who grew basil by the kitchen window and added it to nearly everything during summer
Storage Tips
Store salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day Since peaches and greens become soggy quickly it is best eaten fresh You can prep the toppings ahead and cut the peaches just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
Replace peaches with nectarines or plums if peaches are out of season Pecans or almonds work well instead of walnuts Try goat cheese instead of feta for more tang
Serving Suggestions
This salad is at home alongside grilled chicken or fish It also makes a stunning potluck dish or a starter for a festive menu Garnish with extra basil for visual flair
Cultural Context
While not traditional in the Southern sense this salad channels classic Southern love for peaches and combines it with light Mediterranean touches Every region adds its twist so feel free to make it your own
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep peach slices from browning?
Toss them gently with a splash of lemon juice after slicing to help preserve their color and freshness.
- → Can I substitute the mozzarella?
Yes, try burrata or goat cheese for a creamier texture, or omit cheese for a dairy-free option.
- → Do I need to toast the walnuts?
Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch, but you can use them raw if you prefer.
- → Is it possible to make it ahead?
Prepare ingredients ahead of time but assemble and drizzle the balsamic just before serving for best texture.
- → What greens work best in this dish?
Arugula adds a peppery bite, but mixed baby greens or spinach also pair nicely with the other ingredients.