Name: Irresistibly Fresh Peach Salad for Your Summer Table
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2-3 pieces ripe peaches (Choose slightly soft ones for the sweetest flavor in this Peach Salad.); 4 cups arugula or mixed greens (Provides a fresh, peppery bite.); 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (Add a creamy texture to balance the peaches’ sweetness.); ½ cup walnuts (Toasted for crunch and nutty flavor.); ½ cup feta cheese (Adds a salty contrast to the sweetness of the peaches.); handful fresh basil leaves (Brings an aromatic flair.); ¼ cup balsamic glaze (Adds tangy sweetness.); to taste salt & pepper (Season to taste.)

The sun kisses the ripe peaches, igniting a craving for something fresh and bright. Enter the Millionaire Peach Salad—a delightful burst of summer that turns ordinary ingredients into a stunning dish. This no-cook recipe combines juicy peach slices, creamy mozzarella, and crunchy walnuts, making it not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious option for your next gathering. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or in need of a refreshing lunch, this salad is customizable to suit any palate and perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, freeing you from hours in the kitchen so you can savor every moment of summer. Ready to dive into a bowl of sunshine?

Why is Peach Salad a Summer Must-Have?

Vibrant Flavors: This Millionaire Peach Salad is an explosion of summer delight, combining sweet, juicy peaches with creamy mozzarella. Easy to Prepare: With no cooking required, you’ll have it ready in minutes—ideal for a busy day! Customizable Ingredients: Swap in seasonal fruits or different nuts to match your taste, making it suitable for everyone. Visual Appeal: Bright colors and textures make this dish a showstopper at any gathering. Nutrient-Rich: Packed with healthy fats and fiber, it’s not just tasty but also nutritious, perfect alongside grilled meats or as a light stand-alone meal. Explore more light dishes like the Arugula Salad Zesty or Tuna Egg Salad for your summer table!

Peach Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Ripe peaches – Choose slightly soft ones for the sweetest flavor in this Peach Salad.
• Fresh mozzarella balls – Add a creamy texture to balance the peaches’ sweetness; burrata works well too!
• Arugula or mixed greens – Provides a fresh, peppery bite; feel free to swap for spinach or kale for a different taste.
• Walnuts – Toasted for crunch and nutty flavor; substitute with pecans or sunflower seeds if you prefer.
• Feta cheese – Adds a salty contrast to the sweetness of the peaches; try vegan feta for a dairy-free version.
• Fresh basil leaves – Bring an aromatic flair; mint or cilantro can be used as vibrant alternatives.

For the Dressing
• Balsamic glaze – Adds tangy sweetness, tying all flavors together; a splash of balsamic vinegar can also do the trick!
• Salt & pepper – Season to taste for enhancing all those wonderful Peach Salad flavors.

Looking to add fresh ingredients to your meals? This salad is a customizable delight that embodies the essence of summer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Millionaire Peach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
Begin by washing 2-3 ripe peaches thoroughly under cool, running water. Once clean, gently halve them, remove the pits, and slice each half into wedges about ¼ inch thick. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness. Set the peach slices aside as they will be the star of your Millionaire Peach Salad.

Step 2: Assemble the Greens
In a large salad bowl, add about 4 cups of arugula or mixed greens as a fresh base for your salad. These greens will provide a lovely peppery note, balancing the sweetness of the peaches. If you prefer, you can swap in baby spinach or kale for a different texture. Toss lightly to distribute the greens evenly in the bowl.

Step 3: Add the Mozzarella
Next, take 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls and halve them before gently adding them to the bowl with the greens. The creamy mozzarella will beautifully complement the juicy peaches. Be careful not to crush them; you want to maintain their shape and creaminess in this Millionaire Peach Salad.

Step 4: Incorporate the Walnuts and Feta
Toast about ½ cup of walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once fragrant and lightly browned, remove from heat and let cool. Add the toasted walnuts to the salad, along with ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Step 5: Flavor with Fresh Basil
Gently tear a handful of fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad. Their aromatic fragrance will elevate the dish, enhancing the fresh ingredients in your Millionaire Peach Salad. This step will add another layer of flavor that perfectly complements the sweet and savory elements already in the bowl.

Step 6: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
Now, drizzle the salad with about ¼ cup of balsamic glaze, ensuring even distribution for balanced flavor. This tangy-sweet glaze ties all the components together beautifully. A touch of salt and pepper can be added to taste, enhancing all those vibrant flavors in your salad mix.

Step 7: Toss Gently
Carefully toss the ingredients together using a large spoon or salad tongs, ensuring the peach slices, mozzarella, greens, and nuts blend without mashing any of the delicate components. Aim to coat everything lightly with the balsamic glaze for a harmonious mix in your Millionaire Peach Salad.

Step 8: Chill Before Serving
For best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the overall taste experience. When ready to serve, you will find a beautifully integrated salad that bursts with refreshing flavors and textures.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve your Millionaire Peach Salad directly from the bowl or plate it individually for a lovely presentation. Enjoy this refreshing dish immediately, soaking in the delightful taste of summer with every bite, either alongside grilled meats or as a delightful stand-alone meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Millionaire Peach Salads are a perfect solution for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the peaches and mozzarella up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. To prevent browning, toss the peach slices with a splash of lemon juice before refrigerating. You can also toast the walnuts and store them separately, keeping their crunch intact for up to 3 days. Assemble the greens and crumbled feta ahead of time as well, ensuring everything is kept refrigerated and mixed just before serving. When ready to enjoy your salad, combine all prepared ingredients with the balsamic glaze, and you’ll savor a delightful dish that’s just as fresh and delicious as when you made it!

Helpful Tricks for Peach Salad

Choose Ripe Peaches: Always select slightly soft, ripe peaches for maximum sweetness and juiciness in your Peach Salad. Avoid hard peaches for better flavor.
Toast the Nuts: Toasting walnuts enhances their nutty flavor, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning. A quick 3-5 minutes over medium heat is usually perfect.
Mix Greens Wisely: For different flavor profiles, switch arugula with milder greens like spinach. Customize your Peach Salad to suit your taste and desired intensity.
Layer Ingredients: When assembling the salad, layer ingredients thoughtfully. This ensures every bite contains peach, mozzarella, and greens for balanced flavor throughout.
Chill for Flavor: Allow your salad to chill for 10-15 minutes before serving. This process melds the flavors perfectly, creating a refreshing experience.

What to Serve with Refreshing Millionaire Peach Salad?

A beautiful salad deserves beautiful companions! Elevate your summer dining experience with these delightful pairings.

Grilled Chicken: Savory grilled chicken adds a protein kick, balancing the peach salad’s natural sweetness and creamy textures.
Enjoy juicy, marinated chicken alongside this vibrant dish for a wholesome meal.
Crispy Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread offers a crunchy texture that contrasts the salad’s softness.
Dip it in olive oil or balsamic for an extra layer of flavor!
Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: Light and refreshing, fruit-infused iced tea complements the salad’s fresh ingredients while quenching your thirst on sunny days.
Try peach or mint flavors for a cohesive beverage pairing.
Roasted Veggie Platter: A colorful array of roasted vegetables brings earthy flavors that balance the bright notes of the peach salad.
Consider adding seasonal favorites like zucchini and bell peppers for a great contrast.
Classic Potato Salad: The creamy richness of a classic potato salad pairs nicely with the juicy sweetness in a peach salad, ensuring satisfaction on your plate.
It’s a perfect addition to a barbecue spread!
Berry Tart for Dessert: End your meal with a light berry tart that echoes the fruity notes of the salad.
Its sweet-tart filling is a perfect finale alongside refreshing summer flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Peach Salad

Fridge: Keep any leftover Peach Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Note that the texture of the greens may soften over time.

Separation Tip: Store the dressing separately from the other ingredients to maintain freshness for a longer period and prevent soggy greens.

Freezer: We do not recommend freezing this salad as the fresh ingredients, particularly peaches and greens, lose their texture and flavor when thawed.

Reheating Advice: This dish is best served chilled; no reheating is necessary or recommended to retain its bright, refreshing taste.

Peach Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize this Peach Salad to make it truly your own—the balance of flavors will delight your senses!

Baby Spinach: Swap arugula for baby spinach for a milder, sweeter taste that pairs well with juicy peaches. This change maintains the salad’s freshness while altering the flavor profile subtly.
Pecan Crunch: Replace walnuts with pecans for a different nutty flavor, adding a deliciously buttery crunch that complements the peach’s sweetness beautifully.
Vegan Delight: For a dairy-free option, use plant-based mozzarella and a vegan feta alternative. Drizzle with a vegan balsamic glaze to keep it entirely plant-based!
Berries Galore: Incorporate seasonal berries like strawberries or blueberries in place of peaches during summer for an added pop of color and flavor. Their tartness can balance the creamy elements perfectly.
Herb Twist: Substitute fresh basil with mint or cilantro for a refreshing twist that brings unique flavors to your salad. Each herb offers a distinct taste profile that can completely transform the dish.
Apples in Autumn: Embrace the fall season by swapping peaches for crisp apple slices, adding a sweet crunch that captures the essence of autumn while keeping the salad light and airy.
Grilled Peaches: Try grilling the peaches lightly for a caramelized flavor that elevates the salad to new heights. This preparation adds a smoky sweetness that’ll mesmerize your guests.

Explore these enchanting variations, and if you’re in the mood for more refreshing recipes, check out the delightful Ambrosia Salad Southern for a sweet twist or indulge in the zesty Thai Cucumber Salad. Each offers a unique flair that’s perfect for any summer table!

Millionaire Peach Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe peaches for this salad?
Absolutely! When selecting peaches for your Millionaire Peach Salad, look for those that are slightly soft to the touch, indicating they’re ripe and juicy. Ideal peaches will have a sweet aroma and a vibrant color without dark spots all over. If they feel rock-hard, they may not have the sweetness desired for this dish.

What’s the best way to store leftover Peach Salad?
Very easy! Store any leftover Peach Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the greens may soften over time. To maintain freshness longer, store the dressing separately and combine just before serving.

Can I freeze this salad?
Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad! Freezing can alter the delicate texture of the peaches and greens, making them mushy when thawed. Enjoy this salad fresh for the best taste experience—it’s truly a dish meant for immediate enjoyment!

What should I do if my salad turns out too watery?
No worries! If your Millionaire Peach Salad becomes watery, it could be due to the peaches releasing their juices. You can salvage the dish by draining off excess liquid and adding more greens or nuts for a thicker texture. Additionally, consider adjusting the balsamic glaze to balance out the moisture and add flavor.

Can I adapt this Peach Salad for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you have specific dietary needs, this salad is highly customizable. You can easily make it vegan by using plant-based cheeses and verifying that the balsamic glaze is vegan-friendly. If you have nut allergies, substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether for a safe and delicious option.

How long should I let the salad chill before serving?
I recommend chilling your Millionaire Peach Salad for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor and making each bite an explosion of refreshing goodness. Enjoy your delicious creation!