Blueberry Peach Feta Salad

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by Lucille

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Blueberry Peach Feta Salad is a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings! This vibrant salad combines juicy blueberries, sweet peaches, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a refreshing lemon basil vinaigrette. Great for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch, this salad offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that will impress your guests and family alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet and salty ingredients creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
  • Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
  • Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or add grilled chicken for a complete meal.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh fruits and vegetables, this salad is nutritious and satisfying.
  • Perfect for Summer: This salad is light and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for hot days.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Blueberry Peach Feta Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to help you prepare your ingredients efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Jar with lid (for vinaigrette)
  • Measuring cups
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients easily without spilling.
  • Jar with lid: Perfect for shaking up the vinaigrette until it’s well blended.
  • Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting fruits and vegetables effortless.
  • Cutting board: Protects your countertops while prepping your ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 1 pint fresh blueberries
  • 2 peaches (diced)
  • 2 Persian cucumbers (sliced)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta

For the Vinaigrette

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped basil
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Blueberry Peach Feta Salad

Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large serving bowl, combine the blueberries, diced peaches, sliced cucumbers, and crumbled feta. Gently toss them together until evenly mixed.

Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a jar with a lid or measuring cup:
1. Add the fresh lemon juice.
2. Pour in the dijon mustard.
3. Add honey and olive oil.
4. Sprinkle in the chopped basil along with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Shake or whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Gently mix everything together to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste for seasoning adjustments if needed.

Step 4: Serve or Store

Garnish with extra basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your refreshing Blueberry Peach Feta Salad!

How to Serve Blueberry Peach Feta Salad

Blueberry Peach Feta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, this salad pairs beautifully with many foods and occasions.

As a Light Lunch

  • Enjoy it on its own for a refreshing and healthy meal option.
  • Pair it with whole grain crackers for added crunch.

At a Barbecue

  • Serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken or pork for a delightful contrast of flavors.
  • Offer as a side to burgers for a fresh twist to your cookout.

For Brunch

  • This salad complements brunch items such as quiches or frittatas perfectly.
  • Add it to a buffet spread for guests to enjoy at their leisure.

With a Picnic

  • Pack the salad in portable containers for an easy picnic option.
  • Serve with artisan bread and spreads for a balanced meal under the sun.

How to Perfect Blueberry Peach Feta Salad

Creating the perfect Blueberry Peach Feta Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

  • Use ripe fruit: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for the best sweetness and flavor.
  • Opt for fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a vibrant touch; avoid dried herbs if possible.
  • Chill before serving: Allow your salad to sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
  • Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey in the vinaigrette.
  • Experiment with cheese: Try goat cheese instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
  • Add nuts: Tossing in toasted walnuts or pecans will add crunch and richness.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Peach Feta Salad

Pairing side dishes with Blueberry Peach Feta Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this refreshing salad well.

  1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection pairs nicely with the salad’s sweetness.
  2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish adds protein and fiber, making your meal more filling.
  3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers crunchy satisfaction alongside the refreshing salad.
  4. Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese brings together fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, balancing the flavors beautifully.
  5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add warmth and hearty texture to your dining experience.
  6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice and beans make for a satisfying vegetarian option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a Blueberry Peach Feta Salad can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

  • Ignoring ingredient freshness: Fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor. Always choose ripe blueberries and peaches. Check produce quality before using them in your salad.
  • Overdressing the salad: Too much vinaigrette can drown the flavors. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until you reach your desired taste.
  • Not tasting before serving: Always taste your salad before serving it to ensure the flavors are balanced. Adjust seasoning as needed for the best experience.
  • Using crumbled feta incorrectly: Make sure to select high-quality feta cheese. Crumble it just before using to maintain its texture and flavor.
  • Chilling too long: While chilling can enhance flavors, too much time in the fridge can wilt the ingredients. Serve within an hour of preparation for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • The salad is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Blueberry Peach Feta Salad

  • Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the texture changes in fresh fruits and feta cheese.
  • If you must freeze, consider storing components separately (like dressing) and mix fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating Blueberry Peach Feta Salad

  • Oven: This salad is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is generally not necessary. However, if desired, warm it at a low temperature (around 200°F) for about 10 minutes.
  • Microwave: Use short bursts of heat (10-15 seconds) to warm individual servings while being careful not to overheat.
  • Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid cooking the ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Blueberry Peach Feta Salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it entirely. You can also add some nuts for extra protein and crunch.

Can I add other fruits to Blueberry Peach Feta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding strawberries, mango, or even citrus fruits like oranges for added flavor.

What herbs can I use besides basil in Blueberry Peach Feta Salad?

You can try mint or cilantro for a different twist on flavor. Each herb will bring its own unique taste profile to the salad.

How long does Blueberry Peach Feta Salad last?

The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 1-2 days. For best results, consume it soon after preparation.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Peach Feta Salad offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory elements that makes it perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing side dish. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite fruits or herbs. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of flavors!

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

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Blueberry Peach Feta Salad


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

Description

Blueberry Peach Feta Salad is the quintessential summer dish that combines vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch, this salad features juicy blueberries, ripe peaches, and creamy feta cheese, all drizzled with a zesty lemon basil vinaigrette. Bursting with flavor and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that balances sweetness and saltiness in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint fresh blueberries
  • 2 peaches (diced)
  • 2 Persian cucumbers (sliced)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped basil
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine blueberries, diced peaches, sliced cucumbers, and crumbled feta. Gently toss to mix.
  2. In a jar with a lid, add lemon juice, dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Shake well until combined.
  3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently mix to coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Garnish with additional parsley if desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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