Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad

This Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad is a delightful summer dish that combines sweet peaches, creamy avocado, and fresh spinach. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch at home. The vibrant colors and textures make it not only tasty but also visually appealing. With a zesty honey vinaigrette tying everything together, this salad is sure to impress at any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of juicy peaches and creamy avocado creates a refreshing taste that brightens any meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from spinach and healthy fats from avocado, this salad is great for a light meal.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad as beautiful as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad even easier. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Salad serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Use a whisk to easily blend the dressing ingredients until smooth.
• Knife: A sharp knife will help you slice the peaches and avocado neatly.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping fruits and vegetables.

Ingredients

This vibrant summer salad is a perfect blend of sweet, creamy, crunchy, and fresh. Juicy peaches and creamy avocado mingle with crisp spinach, crumbled feta, toasted pecans, and fragrant basil—all tied together with a zesty honey vinaigrette. It’s as gorgeous as it is delicious!

For the Salad

• 3 cups spinach, slightly chopped (or baby kale/arugula)
• 3 large peaches, sliced (or mangoes/nectarines)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta (or almond feta)
• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans, toasted
• ¼ cup fresh basil, torn (or mint/cilantro)

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar/lemon juice)
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup/agave)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes.

Step 2: Layer the Salad

In a large serving bowl or platter:
1. Add the spinach first.
2. Top with sliced peaches and avocado.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Nuts

Sprinkle crumbled feta and toasted pecans evenly over the salad for extra crunch and flavor.

Step 4: Finish with Basil

Tear fresh basil leaves by hand and scatter them over the top to maximize their flavor release.

Step 5: Dress and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine all ingredients without bruising the avocado. Enjoy your refreshing Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad!

How to Serve Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad

This Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or as a side at dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for an easy-to-eat option.
• Pair with whole grain bread or crackers for added texture and nutrition.

As a Side Dish

• Complement grilled chicken or fish with this salad for a balanced meal.
• Offer it alongside other summer dishes like pasta salad or quinoa salad for variety.

At a Potluck

• Present in a large bowl to encourage sharing and conversation.
• Bring extra dressing on the side so guests can customize their portions.

For Meal Prep

• Assemble the salad without dressing and store in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

How to Perfect Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad

To achieve the best results with your Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose ripe peaches: Look for peaches that yield slightly when pressed; they should be sweet and juicy.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and basil enhance flavor and nutrition—avoid wilted greens.
• Toast pecans: Toasting nuts brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor profile.
• Make ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance to allow flavors to meld before serving.
• Balance flavors: Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or acidity with extra vinegar based on your preference.
• Avoid browning avocados: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice on sliced avocado to keep it fresh and green longer.

Best Side Dishes for Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in herbs adds protein that complements the salad beautifully.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish provides hearty grains that pair well with the fresh flavors of the salad.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add warmth and earthiness, creating a satisfying contrast to the salad’s freshness.
4. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives and tomatoes enhances the Mediterranean flair of feta cheese.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn offers sweetness and crunch, perfect for summer meals.
6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil skewers add Italian flair that complements the salad’s ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad may seem easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and presentation. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or frozen peaches instead of fresh ones can result in a less vibrant flavor. Always opt for ripe, fresh peaches when making this salad.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can overpower the delicate flavors of the salad. Start with a small amount and adjust according to taste.
• Neglecting Texture: Forgetting to include crunchy elements like toasted pecans can make the salad feel flat. Ensure you use toasted nuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Using Wrong Cheese: Substituting feta with a cheese that is too soft can ruin the texture balance. Stick with crumbled feta or try almond feta for a vegan option.
• Not Layering Properly: Tossing all ingredients together before serving may bruise the avocado and ruin the presentation. Layer your salad for an eye-catching display.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and taste.
• If you want to prepare components ahead of time, freeze the nuts or basil separately.

Reheating Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm nuts on a baking sheet for 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use low power to gently warm leftovers, avoiding avocado if possible.
• Stovetop: Heat on low heat while stirring gently; again, avoid warming avocado directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad vegan?

You can easily make this salad vegan by using almond feta instead of traditional feta cheese. Substitute honey in the dressing with maple syrup or agave syrup.

Can I add proteins to my Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work well as protein additions, making the salad more filling and nutritious.

What’s the best way to ripen peaches quickly?

To ripen peaches faster, place them in a paper bag at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas and speeds up the ripening process.

Can I replace spinach with another green?

Yes! You can use baby kale or arugula instead of spinach if you prefer their flavors. Each green will offer a unique twist on this salad.

Final Thoughts

This Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad is not only beautiful but also versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish or light meal during summer gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients like nuts or different cheeses. Try this refreshing salad today for an explosion of flavor!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Peach, Avocado & Spinach Salad is a refreshing summer delight that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This vibrant salad features juicy peaches, creamy avocado, and fresh spinach, all enhanced by a zesty honey vinaigrette. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch at home, this dish not only pleases the palate but also dazzles the eyes with its colorful presentation. Packed with nutrients from spinach and healthy fats from avocado, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, it’s an adaptable recipe that you can customize based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Impress your guests or treat yourself to a healthy meal with this gorgeous salad!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups spinach
• 3 large peaches
• 1 avocado
• ¼ cup crumbled feta
• 2 tablespoons toasted pecans
• ¼ cup fresh basil
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. In a large serving bowl or platter, layer spinach first, then add sliced peaches and avocado.
3. Sprinkle crumbled feta and toasted pecans over the top.
4. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the salad.
5. Drizzle dressing over the salad right before serving and gently toss to combine.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg