Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese

Juicy and flavorful, Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese is a delightful summer dish perfect for any occasion. This salad combines sweet peaches, creamy goat cheese, and fresh basil to create a refreshing appetizer or side dish. Its vibrant colors and unique flavors make it a standout at parties, picnics, or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just ten minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad without breaking a sweat.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet peaches and tangy goat cheese creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side salad or top it with grilled chicken for a satisfying main course.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce like arugula and walnuts, this salad is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Perfect for Summer: The lightness of this peach salad makes it an ideal choice for hot days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gathering the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Serving bowl or platter
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to combine your vinaigrette ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your dressing emulsifies properly for an even flavor throughout the salad.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps in slicing peaches and onions precisely, making your salad visually appealing.

Ingredients

Juicy sweet peaches, tangy goat cheese, savory onions, crunchy walnuts, and fragrant arugula come together for a simple summer salad recipe that’s layered with so much delicious flavor and texture.

For the Salad

• 2 ripe yellow peaches, (sliced)
• 1/2 small red onion, (thinly sliced)
• 2 firmly packed cups arugula
• 1/4 loosely packed cup basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons Tronchetto di Capra cheese (or other mild goat cheese)
• 1/4 cup walnuts, (roughly chopped)

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
• 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Black pepper, (to taste)

How to Make Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese

Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, red apple vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Layer the Greens

Layer the arugula and basil in a shallow serving bowl or platter. This creates a beautiful bed for the rest of your ingredients.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Evenly arrange the sliced peaches, thinly sliced onions, crumbled goat cheese, and roughly chopped walnuts on top of the greens.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad to taste. Toss gently if desired or serve immediately. Enjoy your refreshing Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese!

How to Serve Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese

Serving Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese can elevate your summer gatherings. This refreshing dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

Light Lunch

• A light lunch option, this salad is perfect on its own or served alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Picnic Favorite

• Pack the salad in a container for a picnic. The flavors meld beautifully when chilled, creating a delightful treat outdoors.

Appetizer Delight

• Serve small portions as an appetizer at dinner parties. It excites the palate and sets the tone for a flavorful meal.

Refreshing Side Dish

• Pair this salad with hearty main dishes like barbecued meats. Its vibrant flavors cut through richer meals, adding balance.

Brunch Addition

• Incorporate the salad into your brunch spread. It complements sweet items like pancakes or French toast wonderfully.

How to Perfect Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese

To get the most out of your Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe peaches – Opt for peaches that yield slightly to pressure for sweetness and juiciness.
• Use fresh herbs – Fresh basil enhances flavor; avoid dried herbs for this recipe.
• Balance flavors – Adjust vinegar and honey to achieve the right tangy-sweet balance that pleases your taste buds.
• Customize toppings – Feel free to add extra nuts or seeds for added crunch or substitute goat cheese with feta if preferred.
• Serve immediately – For the best texture and taste, serve the salad right after dressing it.
• Chill before serving – Letting the salad sit for about 10 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese

Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall experience.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection complement the salad’s freshness.
2. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread makes a great addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
3. Caprese Salad – The classic Caprese offers a similar flavor profile, creating a delightful Italian-themed meal.
4. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf adds wholesome grains, making it filling yet healthy.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted vegetables provide depth and warmth against the coolness of the salad.
6. Pasta Primavera – A colorful vegetable pasta brings together seasonal produce, enhancing your table’s vibrancy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Using unripe peaches: Unripe peaches can be hard and lack flavor. Always choose ripe, juicy peaches for a delicious salad.
• Skipping the vinaigrette: A simple vinaigrette elevates the flavors. Don’t skip this step; it ties all ingredients together beautifully.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a little and add more if needed, tasting as you go.
• Chopping ingredients too large: Large pieces can make the salad difficult to eat. Slice peaches and onions thinly for better texture and flavor distribution.
• Not balancing flavors: Ensure a mix of sweet, tangy, and savory elements. Adjust salt, pepper, or honey to achieve harmony in taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh ingredients.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing components separately (like walnuts) instead of the whole salad.

Reheating Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes. This option is not ideal as it may wilt greens.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for short bursts (10-15 seconds). Be cautious not to overheat as it can compromise freshness.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat. Stir carefully to avoid wilting greens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese.

What are the main ingredients in Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese?

The main ingredients include ripe peaches, basil leaves, goat cheese, arugula, red onion, walnuts, lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.

Can I customize my Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese?

Absolutely! You can add nuts like pecans or almonds, swap goat cheese for feta or blue cheese, or incorporate other fruits like berries or apples.

How should I serve this Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing appetizer or side dish during summer gatherings or picnics.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare individual components ahead of time (like the dressing) for quick assembly when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Peach Salad with Basil and Goat Cheese is a vibrant dish that combines sweet and savory elements perfectly. It’s versatile enough for picnics or dinner parties. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences!