If you love the delightful marriage of sweet and savory flavors, then this Peach & Prosciutto Cottage Cheese Salad Recipe is going to feel like a fresh breeze on a warm day. It’s bright, creamy, peppered with tender prosciutto, and adorned with juicy peaches that bring a natural sweetness to the plate. This salad brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that create an irresistible combination of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, this recipe checks all the boxes with impressive ease and elegance.

ripe peach slices with vibrant orange and soft red hues, delicate torn slices of translucent pink prosciutto, creamy white dollops of full-fat cottage cheese with a slightly lumpy texture, fresh mixed greens including deep green arugula, spinach, and spring mix leaves with varied shapes and textures, scattered toasted walnuts or pecans with a rich brown, glossy finish, small glass bowls of dark, shiny balsamic glaze and golden olive oil, coarse sea salt crystals and cracked black peppercorns sprinkled around, fresh bright green basil leaves for garnish, all neatly arranged on a clean white matte surface with soft natural lighting casting gentle shadows, minimalistic and airy composition emphasizing freshness and color contrast, overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this salad plays a starring role, blending fresh, creamy, and nutty flavors with layers of crunch and silkiness. Keeping it simple ensures that each bite is balanced and fresh.

2 ripe peaches: Choose peaches that are fragrant and soft to the touch for natural sweetness and juiciness.
4 thin slices prosciutto: Provides a salty, delicate meatiness that contrasts beautifully with the peaches.
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat): Adds creaminess and a mild tang to the salad, making it rich without heaviness.
2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix): Offers a fresh, peppery base that lightens and brightens the dish.
1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans: Toasting brings out the nuts’ flavor, contributing crunch and a warm nuttiness.
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze: Adds a sweet and tangy drizzle that beautifully complements the savory and fruity elements.
1 tablespoon olive oil: A smooth finishing touch that enhances the salad’s richness and ties all flavors together.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out each ingredient’s full flavor.
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): Introduces a fresh herbal note and vibrant color.

How to Make Peach & Prosciutto Cottage Cheese Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the greens

Start by arranging your mixed greens on a large serving plate or divide them between two individual plates. The greens serve as a crisp and peppery base that sets off the creamy and sweet toppings beautifully.

Step 2: Add the cottage cheese

Spoon the cottage cheese either in the center of the greens or in dollops around the salad. This creamy ingredient is a wonderful canvas that contrasts with the softness of the peaches and the saltiness of the prosciutto.

Step 3: Nestle in the peaches and prosciutto

Arrange the peach slices evenly across the mixed greens and cottage cheese. Tear the prosciutto slices into smaller pieces and tuck them under and over the salad. This layering invites every forkful to have a perfect mix of flavors and textures.

Step 4: Sprinkle the toasted nuts

Scatter your toasted walnuts or pecans over the top. The nuts add a satisfying crunch and an earthy note that cuts through the creaminess and sweetness.

Step 5: Drizzle and season

Finish the salad by drizzling olive oil and balsamic glaze across the top. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. The olive oil adds richness, while the balsamic glaze’s tanginess rounds everything out. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you want a bright, herbal accent.

How to Serve Peach & Prosciutto Cottage Cheese Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves are the ideal choice for garnishing thanks to their aromatic, slightly peppery flavor that complements the salad perfectly. You could also add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few edible flowers for a special touch.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a standalone light meal but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, crusty bread, or a chilled glass of crisp white wine. It also makes a lovely accompaniment to summer barbecues or brunch spreads.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests, consider layering the salad ingredients beautifully in a clear glass bowl or on a stylish platter to showcase the vibrant colors. For a fun twist, serve in hollowed-out peach halves for an elegant presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the salad contains fresh peaches, it’s best enjoyed within one day to maintain the peaches’ texture and prevent the greens from wilting.

Freezing

Freezing this salad is not recommended because the peaches, greens, and cottage cheese will lose their texture and freshness once thawed, affecting the overall quality of the dish.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be eaten fresh and cold, so reheating is unnecessary. If you want to warm the nuts or peaches before assembling, do so separately with gentle toasting or grilling, then combine fresh for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of cottage cheese?

Absolutely! Burrata or fresh mozzarella are fantastic alternatives if you want a creamier texture. Each cheese will bring its unique character, so feel free to experiment for your perfect version of the Peach & Prosciutto Cottage Cheese Salad Recipe.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

While the traditional recipe relies on cottage cheese and prosciutto, you can swap the cheese for a plant-based alternative and replace prosciutto with thinly sliced smoked tofu or tempeh to keep the flavor balance in check while making it vegan-friendly.

Can peaches be replaced with other fruits?

Yes! Fresh nectarines or even ripe pears work well in this salad, offering a similar sweet and juicy quality that pairs with salty prosciutto and creamy cheese.

How long will the salad stay fresh after assembling?

Because fresh peaches and greens are delicate, it’s best to serve this salad immediately after assembling or within a few hours of refrigeration to ensure the best taste and texture.

What is the best way to toast the nuts?

Toasting nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant enhances their flavor wonderfully. Stir constantly to prevent burning and cool them before adding to your salad for that perfect crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a salad that feels fresh, flavorful, and just a little bit special, the Peach & Prosciutto Cottage Cheese Salad Recipe is a wonderful choice. Its balance of sweet peaches, savory prosciutto, creamy cottage cheese, and crunchy nuts makes every bite a delight. I highly encourage you to give this salad a try—it’s simple to prepare, visually stunning, and deeply satisfying whether for a quick lunch or a breezy summer dinner.