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Peach and Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese, Pecans, and Balsamic Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 28 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Peach Arugula Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish combining the peppery bite of fresh arugula with sweet, juicy peaches, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted nuts. Tossed in a tangy honey-balsamic dressing, it makes a perfect light meal or an elegant side for any occasion. Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad balances sweet, savory, and nutty flavors for a deliciously easy summer-friendly recipe.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
  • 6 cups fresh arugula
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to balance sweetness and acidity.
  2. Prepare the Salad: Place the fresh arugula in a large bowl. Add the sliced peaches, crumbled goat cheese or feta, toasted pecans or walnuts, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh torn basil leaves if using. Gently mix to evenly distribute all ingredients.
  3. Toss the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the combined salad ingredients. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the dressing, making sure not to bruise the peaches or wilt the delicate arugula.
  4. Serve: Transfer the dressed salad to a serving platter or divide into individual plates. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and vibrant flavors at their best.

Notes

  • For a nut-free version, omit the toasted pecans or walnuts and add some toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.
  • Substitute goat cheese with feta or a vegan cheese alternative depending on dietary preferences.
  • Use fresh basil for an optional aromatic boost, but it can be left out without losing the salad’s main flavors.
  • Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and golden, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  • Best served fresh; peaches will begin to soften and dressing will wilt the arugula if left to sit too long.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/peach-and-arugula-salad-with-goat-cheese-pecans-and-balsamic-dressing-recipe/