This colorful peach salad is a real treat! Juicy peaches, crunchy nuts, and fresh greens come together with a creamy dressing that makes every bite delicious.
I love how easy this salad is to whip up, especially on hot days. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a refreshing dish that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring a lovely flavor, but you can use canned peaches in syrup when fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to drain them well. I prefer fresh when in season for that juicy texture!
Mini Marshmallows: These add sweetness and a fluffy texture. If you’re avoiding sugar, look for sugar-free versions. You can also use chopped marshmallow alternatives, like meringue, for a lighter touch.
Pecans: Chopped pecans give a lovely crunch. If you’re allergic, feel free to swap in walnuts or sunflower seeds. I personally love adding a few toasted pecans for a deeper nutty flavor!
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip is fun for convenience, but homemade whipped cream works too! For a dairy-free option, use coconut whipped cream. I often whisk my cream with a bit of vanilla for extra flavor.
How Do I Make the Creamy Dressing Smooth?
The creamy dressing is key to this salad, and achieving the right consistency is simple! Here’s how to do it:
- Combine the whipped topping and sour cream in a bowl. Mix gently until they’re blended together well.
- If using, add sugar and vanilla extract and stir it in until smooth. This helps balance the flavor.
- Be careful not to over-mix, as you want the fluffiness of the whipped topping intact for that creamy texture!
Folding the dressing into the fruit mixture is also crucial. Use a spatula to carefully combine everything so it stays light and airy!
Easy Millionaire Peach Salad with Creamy Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups canned or fresh peaches, chopped
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare with an additional chilling time of at least 1 hour. So, set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this sweet, creamy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped peaches, mini marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans. This mix of ingredients makes for a colorful and delicious base!
2. Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a separate bowl, blend the whipped topping and sour cream until smooth and well combined. If you’re using sugar and vanilla extract for extra flavor, stir them in at this stage until everything is creamy.
3. Fold It All Together
Carefully fold the creamy dressing into the fruit and nut mixture. Use a gentle hand to ensure everything is evenly coated without deflating the whipped topping.
4. Chill and Let the Flavors Meld
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully and lets the marshmallows soften for that perfect texture.
5. Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top for a crunchy garnish. Serve this fabulous salad cold and enjoy a refreshing summer treat that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Peaches Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh peaches add a lovely flavor and texture. Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the salad. If fresh peaches aren’t in season, canned peaches are a great alternative — just drain them well!
How Can I Make This Salad Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and whipped topping. This adds protein and reduces sugar while still providing a creamy texture. You can also use unsweetened canned pineapple!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance! Just prepare the salad, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld even further. Just give it a gentle stir before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad may get a bit watery from the fruit, so give it a gentle mix before serving again!
