This refreshing arugula salad is a perfect mix of peppery greens, sweet peaches, and crunchy pecans. It’s a bright and colorful dish that feels like summer on a plate!
I love how the peaches add a juicy pop to the salad while the pecans give it a nice crunch. It’s a great side dish, or you can enjoy it as a light lunch. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: This peppery green is key for a bright salad. If arugula isn’t available, consider spinach or mixed greens for a milder flavor.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches provide sweetness. If they’re out of season, you could swap in nectarines or even canned peaches (just drain them well).
Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their nutty flavor. If you have allergies, walnuts or sunflower seeds work well as substitutes!
Cheese: I love goat cheese for its creaminess, but feta is a great choice too. If you want a vegan option, try using avocado for creaminess instead.
How Do I Make the Perfect Salad Dressing?
Making a simple salad dressing is easy and enhances your salad’s overall flavor. Start with a whisk or a small jar for mixing. Here’s how:
- Combine olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and vinegar in your bowl or jar.
- Add a pinch of salt to taste. Remember, you can always adjust later!
- Whisk or shake until the dressing is fully mixed and slightly thickened.
This dressing pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the peaches and the peppery arugula. Feel free to tweak the sweetness or acidity based on your personal preference!
Fresh Arugula Salad with Sweet Peaches and Crunchy Pecans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and healthy option for lunch or a light dinner. No cooking required—just slice, mix, and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
Start by washing your ripe peaches under cool water. Slice each peach in half, remove the pit, and then cut it into thin wedges. Set the peach slices aside.
2. Toast the Pecans:
In a dry skillet, over medium heat, add the pecan halves. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent burning. When they’re fragrant and slightly darker, remove them from the heat and let them cool.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to mix everything together until the dressing is well combined and slightly thickened.
4. Assemble the Salad:
On a large plate or in a salad bowl, spread out the fresh arugula evenly. Then, scatter the peach slices on top. Follow this by adding the toasted pecans and crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese.
5. Drizzle with Dressing:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad, making sure to cover all the ingredients.
6. Add Final Touches:
Sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top to enhance the flavors. If you like, you can add a little extra salt, too, but remember that the cheese will add some saltiness!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it immediately and savor the burst of flavors from the sweet peaches and crunchy pecans! Perfect for a warm day!
FAQ for Fresh Arugula Salad with Sweet Peaches and Crunchy Pecans
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches are delicious, you can substitute them with nectarines, plums, or even berries for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the fruit is ripe for the best taste!
What If I Don’t Have Pecans?
No problem! You can easily swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds. Each will bring its own unique crunch and flavor to the salad!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
For any leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. However, keep the dressing separate to prevent the arugula from wilting. This way, it can stay fresh for about 1 day.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
If you want to prepare this salad in advance, you can slice the peaches and toast the pecans a few hours ahead. Just assemble right before serving for maximum freshness!
