This fresh arugula salad mixes peppery greens with sweet, juicy peaches and crunchy pecans. It’s a bright and tasty treat that makes any meal feel special!
Did I mention how quickly this salad comes together? Just toss everything in a bowl, and you’re ready to impress your guests—or just enjoy a healthy bite alone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: This green is peppery and fresh! If you can’t find arugula, spinach or mixed salad greens make great substitutes, offering a different texture but still tasty.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness! If they’re out of season, try nectarines or even diced apples for a crisp substitute that holds up well in salads.
Pecans: Toasted pecans bring a nice crunch. Don’t have pecans? Walnuts or almonds work too! Just toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.
Goat Cheese or Feta: These cheeses add creaminess. If you’re not a fan, try ricotta or skip the cheese for a dairy-free version. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor!
How Do You Make the Perfect Dressing?
Making a smooth and tasty dressing is easy. Start by whisking your liquid ingredients in a bowl. Here’s how:
- Mix olive oil with honey (or maple syrup) and Dijon mustard.
- Add apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice) for acidity.
- Season with salt to taste, then whisk until everything blends smoothly.
For a creamier dressing, you can add a dollop of yogurt or mayo! Just remember to taste as you go; adjusting salt or sweetness can really make your dressing shine!
Fresh Arugula Salad With Sweet Peach And Crunchy Pecans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 5 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
- 2 large ripe peaches, sliced
- 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to put together, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a picnic treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set it aside for a moment.
2. Assemble the Salad:
Take a large salad bowl and add the fresh arugula so it forms a nice base. Lay the sliced peaches evenly over the greens, creating a colorful display.
3. Add the Crunch:
Sprinkle the toasted pecan halves and crumbled goat cheese (or feta cheese) on top of the arugula and peaches. The nuts will add a delightful crunch to the salad!
4. Dress it Up:
Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad. Don’t add it all at once—start with a little, toss the salad, and then add more if you like. You want everything to be lightly coated.
5. Toss and Season:
Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to bruise the peaches or greens! Finally, add freshly ground black pepper to taste—just a little sprinkle is perfect.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crunchy textures. It’s great on its own or as a tasty side dish. Enjoy every bite!
FAQs for Fresh Arugula Salad With Sweet Peach And Crunchy Pecans
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches are delightful, you can swap them for other fruits like nectarines, plums, or even fresh berries. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be tasty!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Otherwise, the arugula may wilt. The salad can be stored in the fridge for about a day without the dressing.
How Do I Toast Pecans?
To toast pecans, simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes or until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Ideally, consume them within 1-2 days. Just keep in mind that the texture will change as the salad sits, especially if it’s dressed. Consider enjoying it as a next-day lunch without the dressing!
