Millionaire Peach Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that captures the essence of summer, then you’ve come to the right place! This Millionaire Peach Salad is one of my absolute favorites. It combines juicy peaches with creamy mozzarella, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic basil, all drizzled with a delightful balsamic glaze. It’s a dish that’s not only vibrant and colorful but also bursting with flavor.

I love serving this salad at family gatherings or even on busy weeknights when I want something fresh and light. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a hit for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it an easy choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have this beautiful salad ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids will love the sweet peaches while adults enjoy the sophisticated flavors of cheese and nuts.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time for lunch or dinner; it tastes even better after chilling!
• Light and refreshing: Ideal for hot days or as a complement to heartier meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Millionaire Peach Salad. You’ll find that everything you need is easy to find at your local grocery store!

For the Salad

• 4 pieces Ripe peaches (Pitted and sliced)
• 1 cup Fresh mozzarella balls (Halved)
• 1 cup Arugula or mixed greens (For a peppery bite)
• 1/2 cup Walnuts (Toasted and chopped)
• 1/4 cup Feta cheese (Crumbled)
• 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves (Torn)
• 1/4 cup Balsamic glaze (For drizzling)
• to taste Salt
• to taste Pepper

Variations

This Millionaire Peach Salad is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Go nut-free: Swap walnuts for sunflower seeds if you’re avoiding nuts but still want crunch.
• Change the greens: Spinach or kale can be great alternatives to arugula, offering different textures.
• Sweeten it up: Drizzle with honey instead of balsamic glaze for a sweeter twist.

How to Make Millionaire Peach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

Start by washing the peaches under cool running water. This step is important because you want them clean before slicing. Cut them in half, remove the pits, and slice them into wedges. The juicy sweetness of ripe peaches is what makes this salad shine!

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced peaches with halved mozzarella balls and your choice of arugula or mixed greens. This mix provides a beautiful base that balances sweetness with freshness.

Step 3: Add Crunch and Flavor

Now it’s time to add texture! Toss in the toasted walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and torn basil leaves. Each ingredient adds its unique flavor—crunchy walnuts give a nice bite while fresh basil brings in aromatic notes.

Step 4: Dress It Up

Drizzle the balsamic glaze over your salad mixture and season with salt and pepper according to your taste. The sweet tanginess of balsamic pairs perfectly with the sweetness of peaches!

Step 5: Toss Gently

Gently toss the salad so all ingredients are combined without mashing the delicate peaches or mozzarella. This step ensures each bite bursts with flavor while keeping everything intact.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Letting this salad chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s like giving your salad a little moment of zen before serving!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, serve this delightful Millionaire Peach Salad on individual plates or directly from the bowl. Enjoy every refreshing bite!

With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that making this salad is as enjoyable as eating it!

Pro Tips for Making Millionaire Peach Salad

Creating the perfect Millionaire Peach Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Choose ripe peaches: Using perfectly ripe peaches ensures maximum sweetness and juiciness, which are essential for a refreshing salad.

• Toast the walnuts: Toasting walnuts not only enhances their flavor but also adds a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy mozzarella.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mozzarella, vibrant greens, and aromatic basil make a world of difference. They bring brightness and depth to your salad, enhancing overall taste.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for 10-15 minutes helps the flavors meld together, creating a deliciously cohesive dish that’s even more enjoyable.

• Experiment with dressings: While balsamic glaze is fantastic, try other dressings like a light lemon vinaigrette or a honey mustard drizzle for a different twist on this classic salad.

How to Serve Millionaire Peach Salad

Presentation is key when serving this delightful salad! A beautifully arranged plate can elevate the experience and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil sprigs: A few whole sprigs of basil on top add a pop of color and enhance the aromatic herbaceous notes.

• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top brings in an extra layer of flavor that complements the sweetness of peaches.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Simple yet flavorful, grilled chicken seasoned with herbs makes for a satisfying protein option that pairs well with the salad’s fresh ingredients.

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs and lemon zest serves as a nutritious base that contrasts nicely with the peach salad without overpowering it.

• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, either grilled or boiled, adds a seasonal touch. It’s juicy and sweet, making it an excellent companion to your summer salad.

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides comforting carbs that balance out the freshness of the salad while adding an irresistible aroma to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Millionaire Peach Salad will shine at any gathering—enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Millionaire Peach Salad is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste fresh and vibrant, but it can also be easily stored for future enjoyment. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to store the dressing separately to avoid sogginess.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Freezing this salad isn’t recommended due to the texture of the peaches and mozzarella after thawing.
• Instead, prepare the components separately and freeze ingredients like walnuts or feta cheese if needed.

Reheating

• Since this is a salad served cold, there’s no need to reheat.
• Simply pull it out of the fridge, give it a gentle toss, and enjoy!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful Millionaire Peach Salad.

Can I make Millionaire Peach Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time, just remember to keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

What can I substitute for mozzarella in Millionaire Peach Salad?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using burrata cheese or a dairy-free mozzarella option for a similar creamy texture without compromising on flavor.

How long does Millionaire Peach Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will last about 2-3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate!

Is Millionaire Peach Salad suitable for a picnic?

Yes! This salad is a great choice for picnics. Just pack the dressing separately and add it right before serving to ensure everything stays fresh.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this refreshing Millionaire Peach Salad as much as I do! It’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light dinner at home. The combination of juicy peaches, creamy mozzarella, and crunchy walnuts brings so much joy in every bite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients or dressings. Happy cooking!