Description
This fresh peach salad combines juicy, ripe peaches with crunchy toasted almonds, tangy goat cheese, and a vibrant balsamic dressing. Quick to prepare and perfect for a light, refreshing meal or side, it features mixed greens, sweet corn, and a hint of red onion for a balanced blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 6 to 8 cups mixed greens (a mix of butter lettuce and other greens)
- 3 small (or 2 large) ripe peaches
- 1 handful red onion slices
- 1/2 cup canned corn, drained (or fresh or grilled corn)
- 2 ounces soft goat cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Toast the almonds: Place the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Shake the pan and stir frequently with a wooden spoon until the almonds are fragrant and golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove immediately from heat and transfer to a plate to prevent further cooking.
- Prepare fresh ingredients: Slice the peaches thinly and also thinly slice the red onion. Ensure the corn is drained if using canned, or lightly prepared if fresh.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, kosher salt, and several grinds of fresh black pepper. Slowly add the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is thick and emulsified.
- Assemble the salad and serve: Arrange the mixed greens on a serving plate or bowl. Top with the sliced peaches, toasted almonds, red onion slices, crumbled goat cheese, and corn. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
Notes
- Toasting almonds on the stove requires close attention to avoid burning. Stir often.
- Substitute goat cheese with feta for a tangier flavor if preferred.
- Use fresh or grilled corn for added smoky sweetness.
- Dressing can be adjusted for sweetness or acidity by altering maple syrup or vinegar quantities.
- Serve immediately after dressing to prevent the greens from wilting.
