Peach and Arugula Salad
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Peach and Arugula Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to make and packed with flavors that will surprise and delight your taste buds. You’ll love how the sweet peaches balance the peppery arugula, creating a harmony of tastes. The addition of creamy cheese and crunchy nuts adds texture, making every bite exciting. Plus, it’s a healthy option that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Recipe
This Peach and Arugula Salad is a rejuvenating blend of sweet and peppery flavors, perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish. It combines ripe peaches, fresh arugula, and creamy goat cheese to create a vibrant and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine arugula, peach slices, goat cheese, and toasted walnuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Notes: For added crunch, substitute walnuts with almonds or pecans. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or apricots make great alternatives.
Time: Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cooking Time: 0 minutes; Total Time: 10 minutes.
Serving: Serves 4.
Calories: Approximately 180 calories per serving.
Cuisine: American.
Nutrition
This Peach and Arugula Salad is a revitalizing and nutritious dish, perfect for a light meal or side. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
What To Serve With It
I think this peach and arugula salad pairs beautifully with light protein options like grilled chicken or flaky salmon, which balance the flavors without overwhelming them. You can’t go wrong serving it with fresh bread, like a crusty baguette or focaccia, to complete the meal. It’s a simple, satisfying combination that feels both elegant and easy to pull together.
Light Protein Options
To complement the sweetness of peaches and the peppery kick of arugula, I’d recommend pairing this salad with a light protein that doesn’t overpower the flavors. Grilled chicken is a classic choice—it’s lean, flavorful, and easy to toss right into the mix. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, a chickpea salad works wonders. It’s packed with protein, adds a nice texture, and can be seasoned with herbs to match the salad’s vibe. Both options keep things fresh and balanced, letting the peaches and arugula shine while giving you that satisfying protein boost.
Fresh Bread Pairings
While the Peach and Arugula Salad is already a star on its own, adding a slice of fresh bread can take it to the next level—trust me, it’s a game-changer. I love pairing it with a warm slice of artisan bread, like a crusty sourdough loaf. The tanginess of the sourdough balances the sweetness of the peaches, and the chewy texture contrasts nicely with the salad’s crispness. Sometimes, I’ll even toast it lightly and drizzle it with olive oil. It’s simple but makes the meal feel more complete, turning a quick dish into something special. You’ve got to try it!
