One of the best ways to enjoy summer is with this Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese. This vibrant salad combines juicy peaches, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds for a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch at home. The homemade balsamic vinaigrette elevates this dish to a whole new level, making it not only refreshing but also satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: This salad features ripe peaches and crisp spinach that scream summer.
- Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a light lunch or serve it as a side dish at gatherings; it fits any occasion.
- Nutritious & Healthy: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from avocado and almonds, this salad is a guilt-free treat.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet peaches, tangy goat cheese, and nutty almonds creates an unforgettable taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your preparation easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Salad serving bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth vinaigrette for even distribution over the salad.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe space for slicing fruits and vegetables.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for your peaches and avocado.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4-6 cups organic spinach
- 2 large peaches, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, very thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles (or sub feta)
- 1/2 cup sliced toasted almonds
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoons sugar, pure maple syrup or honey to sweeten dressing
- Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinaigrette by combining:
* Balsamic vinegar
* Extra virgin olive oil
* Minced garlic
* Dijon mustard
Add freshly ground salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, include sugar or honey according to your preference.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, add:
* Organic spinach
Drizzle desired amount of balsamic vinaigrette over the spinach. Toss gently to combine.
Step 3: Add Toppings
Top your salad with:
* Sliced peaches
* Diced avocado
* Red onion slices
* Goat cheese crumbles
* Sliced toasted almonds
Toss everything together very gently to avoid mashing the avocado. Serve immediately for the freshest taste!
How to Serve Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese
This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Summer Peach Spinach Salad.
As a Light Lunch
- Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine to make for a refreshing meal.
- Serve with whole-grain bread on the side for added fiber and satisfaction.
As an Appetizer
- Present in small bowls or cups for a beautiful start to any dinner party.
- Add a sprinkle of microgreens on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
With Grilled Proteins
- Top with grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a hearty main dish.
- The smoky flavors from the grill complement the sweetness of the peaches perfectly.
For Picnics or Potlucks
- Pack in a mason jar for easy transport and serving.
- Layer ingredients carefully to keep them fresh until you’re ready to eat.
How to Perfect Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese
To really make this salad shine, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum sweetness and juiciness in your salad.
- Use fresh spinach: Fresh, organic spinach leaves will provide the best texture and flavor. Avoid wilted or discolored leaves.
- Toast your almonds: Lightly toast sliced almonds in a dry pan for just a few minutes to bring out their nutty flavor and crunch.
- Make dressing ahead: Prepare the balsamic vinaigrette in advance so the flavors have time to meld together before serving.
- Add protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas if you desire a more filling meal while maintaining its fresh essence.
- Garnish creatively: Top with edible flowers or additional herbs like basil for an elegant look and extra flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese
This salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement its flavors.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn enhances the summer vibe of your meal. Brush with butter for added richness.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing bite alongside your salad.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds another texture and boosts nutrition.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add warmth and earthiness to your meal.
- Hummus & Veggie Platter: A colorful platter of hummus paired with crunchy veggies makes for healthy finger food that complements your peach salad well.
- Fruit Salad: A simple mix of summer fruits like berries and melons provides a sweet contrast that balances the savory elements of your salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Using unripe peaches: Always choose ripe peaches for the best flavor. Unripe peaches can be hard and lack sweetness. Look for peaches that yield slightly to pressure.
- Not washing spinach properly: Ensure you wash your spinach thoroughly to remove dirt and grit. This will enhance the freshness of your salad.
- Overdressing the salad: It’s easy to go overboard with the dressing. Start with a small amount, toss gently, and add more if necessary. You want to enhance the ingredients without overpowering them.
- Failing to slice ingredients uniformly: For a beautiful presentation, slice peaches, avocado, and onions evenly. This not only looks appealing but ensures a balanced bite.
- Skipping the toasted almonds: Toasting almonds adds flavor and crunch. Don’t skip this step, as it elevates the overall taste of your salad.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.
Freezing Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese
- It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to its fresh ingredients.
- Freezing may alter the texture of spinach and peaches.
Reheating Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salad (without avocado) in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts at low power. Stir between intervals until warmed through; avoid overheating as it may wilt spinach too much.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, gently warm the salad (minus avocado) for a few minutes, stirring often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize the Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese?
Yes! This salad is versatile. You can swap peaches for other fruits like strawberries or berries. Adjust nuts or cheese based on your preference too!
How do I make a vegan version of this peach spinach salad?
To make it vegan, replace goat cheese with a plant-based alternative and omit any honey from the dressing.
What dressing pairs well with peach spinach salad?
While balsamic vinaigrette is recommended, you can try citrus-based dressings or even a creamy tahini dressing for different flavors.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prep most ingredients ahead of time but add avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
The Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese is a delightful mix of flavors and textures perfect for warm days. Its refreshing taste makes it an ideal lunch or side dish that you can easily customize based on what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fruits or nuts—this recipe is all about enjoying fresh ingredients!
Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer with this refreshing Summer Peach Spinach Salad featuring creamy avocado, toasted almonds, and tangy goat cheese. Bursting with juicy peaches and crisp spinach, this salad is a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch at home, it’s elevated by a homemade balsamic vinaigrette that adds a satisfying zing.
- Total Time: 39 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- Organic spinach
- Fresh peaches
- Avocado
- Red onion
- Goat cheese (or feta)
- Toasted almonds
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Garlic
- Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create the dressing.
- In a large bowl, toss organic spinach with the dressing until evenly coated.
- Top with sliced peaches, diced avocado, red onion slices, goat cheese crumbles, and toasted almonds.
- Gently mix the ingredients to combine without mashing the avocado. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Choose ripe peaches for maximum sweetness. Toasting almonds enhances their flavor; do not skip this step. For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas.
