This Fresh Peach Blueberry Spinach Salad is a colorful and tasty treat! It features sweet peaches, juicy blueberries, crunchy pecans, and savory prosciutto, all on a bed of fresh spinach.
I love how easy it is to whip up! It’s great for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, it’s a perfect summer dish to impress friends without breaking a sweat. Who doesn’t love fruity salads? 🍑💙
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is the star of this salad, providing a great base. If you can’t find it, arugula or mixed greens work too for a different flavor profile.
Peaches: Look for ripe, juicy peaches for the best sweetness. If peaches are out of season, nectarines or cold canned peaches are great substitutes.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a pop of color and flavor. You could use raspberries or blackberries as a substitute, but adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Pecans: These add crunch! Walnuts or sunflower seeds can replace pecans if you need a nut-free option.
Prosciutto: This provides a salty contrast. If you want to skip the meat, try crispy bacon or skip it entirely for a vegetarian version.
How Do I Toast Nuts for Maximum Flavor?
Toasting nuts enhances their nutty flavor and crunch. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the pecans in a single layer and stir them frequently for 3-5 minutes.
- Once they smell fragrant and look slightly darker, remove them from the heat to prevent burning.
Let them cool before adding to your salad. It makes a big difference in taste!
Fresh Peach Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Prosciutto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 2 fresh ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 4 slices prosciutto, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (for dressing)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for dressing)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad can be whipped up in about 15 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes toasting the pecans and preparing the dressing, plus just a couple of minutes mixing everything together. It’s easy, quick, and totally delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
Start by toasting the pecans. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir them frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they become fragrant and start to brown slightly. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if you are using it), salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing will add a wonderful zing to your salad!
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves, thinly sliced peaches, and blueberries. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to make sure everything is well coated and mixed.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the toasted pecans and torn pieces of prosciutto on top of the salad. These toppings add the perfect crunch and savory flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Refreshing Peach Blueberry Spinach Salad immediately for the best taste. The mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors will delight your taste buds!
This salad beautifully combines the juicy sweetness of peaches and blueberries with the delightful crunch of pecans and the savory flair of prosciutto. It’s an ideal choice for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish for any summer meal. Enjoy!
FAQ for Fresh Peach Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Prosciutto
Can I Use Frozen Fruits Instead of Fresh?
While fresh fruits give the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen peaches and blueberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw them first and gently pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in your salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto. You can replace it with avocado slices or add crumbled feta cheese for a tasty alternative.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare all the components ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting. Assemble everything within a few hours of serving for the best taste.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the spinach and fruits. Toss again before serving!
