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Nothing says summer quite like a bowl of fresh peach fruit salad. This is the bright refreshing side I take to every picnic when peaches are at their most beautiful. Sweet perfume from peak-season fruit, juicy blackberries and blueberries, plus a pop of tartness from pomegranate all tossed together with honey lime and ribbons of basil. If you want something easy but impressive for cookouts or last-minute guests this is it.
The first time I made this for a backyard gathering several friends asked for the recipe and now it is a go-to when peaches flood the farmer’s market.
Ingredients
- Ripe yellow peaches: bring plenty of natural sweetness and their juicy bite is essential look for ones with a little give when squeezed but no brown spots
- Blackberries: add tartness and dark color choose plump berries that are shiny and not mushy
- Blueberries: give juicy pops throughout the salad firm berries with a powdery bloom mean they are fresh
- Pomegranate seeds: give crunch and bright tart flavor I love grabbing pre-seeded ones for ease
- Fresh basil leaves: make the whole thing fragrant and balance the sweet fruit pick leaves that are bright green and not wilting
- Honey: enhances all the summer flavors you just need a drizzle
- Lime juice: adds a touch of tang and keeps the fruit vibrant use a fresh lime for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare The Fruit:
- Slice the peaches just before assembling to prevent browning then lay out all other washed fruit on paper towels so excess water does not dilute the salad
- Mix The Salad:
- Combine sliced peaches blackberries blueberries and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl
- Add Basil And Dress:
- Cut basil into thin ribbons and scatter over the fruit drizzle honey and squeeze the lime juice right on top
- Toss Gently:
- Use tongs to toss everything together making sure the honey and lime coat each piece without crushing the berries
- Serve Or Store:
- Either serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for maximum freshness only add basil right before serving if storing ahead
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Storage Tips
Always use a glass or plastic airtight container to lock in freshness Store basil on top not mixed in if possible so it does not brown This salad will stay crisp and flavorful up to four days in the fridge
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use nectarines or white peaches if that is what you find ripe Strawberries or raspberries swap in easily for blackberries If you cannot find pomegranate just add extra berries or even a few orange segments for color
Serving Suggestions
This fruit salad makes a showy side for grilled chicken or fish Layer over yogurt with a sprinkle of granola for breakfast Chill and spoon into pretty glasses as a light summer dessert topped with whipped cream
Cultural Context
Peach fruit salads are a summer staple across the southern United States especially when the stone fruit is at its peak and baskets overflow at roadside stands The simple combination of fruit and herbs highlights regional flavors while using up whatever is fresh and ready each week
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the fruit up to a day ahead. For best results, add basil ribbons just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and flavor.
- → How long will it stay fresh in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, this salad typically stays fresh for about 2 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- → What can I substitute for pomegranate seeds?
You can use additional berries or diced mango for a similar burst of color and sweetness.
- → Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
While fresh fruit offers the best texture, you can use thawed frozen berries if fresh ones are unavailable. Drain excess liquid before adding.
- → How do I prevent peaches from browning?
Tossing the peaches with lime juice, as in this salad, helps slow browning and keeps the fruit looking fresh.