Description
This vibrant Peach Salad with Basil is a celebration of summer flavors, featuring juicy fresh peaches, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves. Tossed with peppery arugula and finished with a tangy honey-balsamic vinaigrette, this effortless salad is the perfect refreshing side dish or light main for warm days.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Salad
- 3 large ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 4 cups baby arugula (or mixed greens)
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or julienned
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted (optional)
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Wash and dry the baby arugula and fresh basil. Slice the peaches into thin wedges, halve the mozzarella balls, and thinly slice the red onion. If using, toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is emulsified and smooth.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, peach slices, mozzarella, red onion, basil, and toasted nuts. Drizzle the honey-balsamic dressing over the top.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss the ingredients to coat evenly with the dressing. Serve immediately, garnished with a few extra basil leaves if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese or feta.
- This salad tastes best when peaches are perfectly ripe and juicy.
- You can substitute nectarines for peaches if desired.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of salad
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 19mg
