This refreshing peach feta salad is a sweet and salty delight! With juicy peaches, creamy feta cheese, and a mix of fresh herbs, it’s perfect for a sunny day.
Whenever summer rolls around, this salad becomes my go-to. I love how easy it is to whip up—just chop and toss! It’s like a hug in a bowl. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Look for ripe peaches with a slight give when squeezed. If peaches are out of season, try substituting with ripe nectarines or even mango for a tropical twist!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy salty kick. If you’re dairy-free, opt for a plant-based feta or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet cherry tomatoes are a must! If they aren’t available, diced regular tomatoes will work, although it’s best to remove the seeds to avoid excess moisture.
Herbs: Fresh mint is lovely in this salad, but basil or cilantro could be great alternatives, depending on your taste preference!
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks on Peaches?
Grilling peaches adds a delightful smoky flavor and enhances their sweetness. To achieve those perfect grill marks, follow these steps:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan until it’s hot. This ensures good direct contact.
- Brush the cut sides of peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place peaches cut-side down on the grill, and watch carefully for about 2-3 minutes.
- Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they’re tender.
Let them cool slightly before adding to the salad to keep them from wilting other ingredients!
Simple Peach Feta Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a little time grilling the peaches and mixing everything together. No long wait times here, just quick and delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot and ready to create those lovely grill marks on the peaches.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
Lightly brush the peach slices with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help them caramelize beautifully while grilling.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peaches on the grill pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and a slight softening of the peaches. Once grilled, remove them and let them cool for a moment.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the grilled peaches, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion together. Let those colorful ingredients come together!
5. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the bowl. The feta will add a wonderful creaminess and a salty kick that balances nicely with the sweet peaches.
6. Dress the Salad:
Next, drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the balsamic vinegar (if using) over the salad. These ingredients will add a rich flavor without overwhelming the other tastes.
7. Toss and Season:
Gently toss all the ingredients together to combine them. Then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
8. Garnish with Fresh Mint:
Finally, sprinkle the fresh mint on top as a lovely garnish. The mint really brightens up the dish!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
This salad can be served immediately for a fresh bite, or you can chill it for about 15-20 minutes if you want the flavors to meld even more. Dig in and enjoy your vibrant salad! 🌟
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches are out of season, you can substitute with nectarines, plums, or even diced mango for a tropical twist. Just ensure they’re ripe for the best flavor.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta. You can also add avocado or roasted chickpeas for extra creaminess and protein!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad components ahead of time! Just grill the peaches and toss all the ingredients (except the mint) together. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Add mint right before serving for the best flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the salad may become a bit softer. Enjoy as a side or on top of greens for a quick meal!
