This colorful salad combines sweet peaches, juicy blueberries, and crisp spinach, creating a fresh and tasty dish. Add crunchy pecans and salty prosciutto for a delightful twist!
If you’re like me, the mix of flavors in this salad is simply irresistible. I love how the fruit plays with the salty bite of prosciutto! Perfect for warm days when you need something light!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is the star of this salad, offering a mild flavor and tender texture. If you can’t find baby spinach, regular spinach works too! Just remove the tough stems and chop it slightly.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness and juiciness. When they’re out of season, feel free to use nectarines or even canned peaches (drained) for a quick option.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries bring a pop of color and sweetness. If they’re unavailable, raspberries or blackberries make great substitutes!
Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and richness. For a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be used instead.
Prosciutto: This adds a beautiful salty flavor that balances the sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, crispy chickpeas or crumbled feta cheese can replace the prosciutto.
How Do You Toast Pecans for Maximum Flavor?
Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and gives them a delightful crunch. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the pecans and keep stirring for 3-5 minutes.
- Watch for them to turn golden and smell delicious. Remove them quickly to prevent burning!
Let them cool before adding to your salad for the best taste! Toasting is a simple step that makes a big difference.
Fresh Peach Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Prosciutto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 4 ounces prosciutto, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 5 minutes to toast the pecans. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a fresh and vibrant salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
Start by toasting the pecans in a dry skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat, and add the pecans. Stir them frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Once done, remove them from the heat and let them cool.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, thinly sliced peaches, and fresh blueberries. Mix them gently to distribute everything evenly.
3. Add the Pecans and Prosciutto:
Once the pecans have cooled, sprinkle them on top of the salad mix. Next, add the torn pieces of prosciutto for that lovely salty flavor. This mix will look so colorful and inviting!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended. This dressing complements the salad perfectly!
5. Drizzle and Toss:
Right before you’re ready to serve, drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together to coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the peaches!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your salad is ready! Serve it immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches and blueberries are delicious, you can substitute them with other seasonal fruits. For instance, strawberries, raspberries, or melon would work beautifully depending on what you have on hand!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep some components ahead. You can slice the fruits and toast the pecans a few hours prior, then refrigerate them separately. Just toss everything together with the dressing right before serving to maintain the freshness!
What If I Don’t Have Prosciutto?
No problem! If you want to keep it vegetarian, consider crispy chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, or even avocado for a creamy touch. If you still want some meat, thinly sliced turkey or chicken also works well.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
For any leftover salad, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within a day, but the spinach may wilt. If you want to save it, store the dressing separately and mix it in right before eating!
