A Millionaire Peach Salad is the perfect dish for summer gatherings, picnics, or a light dinner. This refreshing salad combines juicy peaches with creamy mozzarella, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic basil, all drizzled with balsamic glaze. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it an eye-catching addition to any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of sweet peaches and savory cheese creates a balanced taste that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this salad in under 20 minutes!
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, this salad suits various occasions from casual lunches to elegant dinners.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and healthy fats from walnuts, this salad offers great nutritional benefits.
- Beautiful Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad visually appealing, sure to impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe for Millionaire Peach Salad, gather your essential tools for a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Salad bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Whisk (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Salad bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all the ingredients without causing a mess.
- Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing peaches and cutting mozzarella cleanly.
Ingredients
A refreshing summer salad featuring juicy peaches, creamy mozzarella, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Fresh Produce
- 4 pieces Ripe peaches (Pitted and sliced.)
- 1 cup Fresh mozzarella balls (Halved.)
- 1 cup Arugula or mixed greens (For a peppery bite.)
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves (Torn.)
Nuts & Cheese
- 1/2 cup Walnuts (Toasted and chopped.)
- 1/4 cup Feta cheese (Crumbled.)
Condiments & Seasoning
- 1/4 cup Balsamic glaze (For drizzling.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
How to Make Millionaire Peach Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
Wash the peaches thoroughly under cool running water. Cut them in half and remove the pits. Slice them into wedges.
Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients
In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced peaches, halved mozzarella balls, and arugula or mixed greens.
Step 3: Add Nuts and Cheese
Add the toasted walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and torn basil leaves to the bowl.
Step 4: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Toss Gently
Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients without mashing the peaches or mozzarella.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the salad on individual plates or directly from the bowl for guests to enjoy.
With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, your Millionaire Peach Salad is sure to be a hit! Enjoy this vibrant dish during warm summer days or any time you crave something light yet satisfying.
How to Serve Millionaire Peach Salad
Millionaire Peach Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether as a refreshing appetizer or a light main course, it pairs beautifully with different foods. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
On a Platter
- Serve the salad on a large platter for family-style dining. This allows everyone to help themselves and creates a beautiful presentation.
With Grilled Chicken
- Add grilled chicken breast slices for extra protein. The smoky flavor complements the sweetness of the peaches perfectly.
In Individual Bowls
- Portion the salad into individual bowls for a more elegant touch. This is great for dinner parties or special occasions.
As a Picnic Dish
- Pack the salad in jars for an easy picnic meal. Layered jars keep ingredients fresh and make for an attractive presentation.
Garnished with Extra Basil
- Top each serving with additional fresh basil leaves. This enhances both flavor and aesthetics, making the dish pop.
Alongside Crusty Bread
- Serve with slices of crusty bread or baguette. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover balsamic glaze.
How to Perfect Millionaire Peach Salad
To make your Millionaire Peach Salad truly outstanding, consider these tips. They will help you enhance flavors and improve presentation.
Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that yield slightly to pressure. Ripe peaches are sweeter and more flavorful in your salad.
Toast walnuts: Lightly toast walnuts in a dry skillet to enhance their flavor and crunchiness. This adds depth to your salad.
Use high-quality mozzarella: Opt for fresh mozzarella balls for creaminess that perfectly balances the salad’s other textures.
Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors as they meld together, creating a more refreshing taste.
Best Side Dishes for Millionaire Peach Salad
Pairing side dishes with Millionaire Peach Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors beautifully.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These add a smoky flavor and protein, making them a perfect match for the sweet salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs provides texture and heartiness that contrasts well with the salad.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers echo the salad’s ingredients while offering variety.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and juiciness that pairs nicely with peach flavors.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings an earthy flavor that balances out the sweetness of peaches.
Stuffed Avocados: Avocados stuffed with crab or tuna salad can add richness and contrast to your meal, enhancing its gourmet feel.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy garlic breadsticks provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soft textures of the peach salad.
Fruit Platter: A colorful fruit platter featuring seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the peach theme of your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Millionaire Peach Salad, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Overripe peaches: Using overripe peaches can lead to a mushy salad. Choose firm, ripe peaches for the best texture and flavor.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season with salt and pepper can leave your salad bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Forgetting to chill: Skipping the chill time can prevent flavors from melding. Refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes to enhance taste.
- Mishandling ingredients: Tossing ingredients too vigorously can mash delicate items like mozzarella. Gently combine ingredients for a nice presentation.
- Using stale nuts: Toasted walnuts should be fresh for optimal crunch. Always check for freshness before adding nuts to your salad.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.
Freezing Millionaire Peach Salad
- This salad is not recommended for freezing due to its fresh ingredients, which may become soggy.
Reheating Millionaire Peach Salad
- Oven: Not recommended as this salad is best enjoyed cold.
- Microwave: Avoid reheating; enjoy chilled.
- Stovetop: Not suitable for reheating; serve fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Millionaire Peach Salad.
What can I substitute for mozzarella in Millionaire Peach Salad?
You can use burrata or goat cheese as alternatives to mozzarella, giving a different flavor while keeping it creamy.
Can I make Millionaire Peach Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare all ingredients ahead but add the dressing just before serving for optimal freshness.
How do I choose ripe peaches for the salad?
Look for peaches that yield slightly when pressed but are still firm. They should have a sweet aroma and a vibrant color.
Is Millionaire Peach Salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just store components separately and assemble right before eating for the best taste and texture.
Can I add more ingredients to my Millionaire Peach Salad?
Yes! Feel free to customize with additional fruits, nuts, or cheeses based on your preferences.
Final Thoughts
The Millionaire Peach Salad is a delightful summer dish that brings together juicy peaches, creamy mozzarella, and crunchy walnuts. Its refreshing flavors make it perfect as an appetizer or light meal. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite seasonal ingredients!
Millionaire Peach Salad
Millionaire Peach Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a light dinner. This delightful salad features juicy peaches paired with creamy mozzarella, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic basil, all drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a balanced taste that’s irresistible. Not only does it look stunning with its colorful ingredients, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meals. In just under 20 minutes, you can prepare this easy-to-make salad that will impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 ripe peaches (pitted and sliced)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (halved)
- 1 cup arugula or mixed greens
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
- 1/2 cup walnuts (toasted and chopped)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash peaches under cool water, cut in half to remove pits, and slice into wedges.
- In a large salad bowl, combine sliced peaches, halved mozzarella balls, and arugula or mixed greens.
- Add toasted walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and torn basil leaves.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss to combine without mashing the ingredients.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
