Description
A vibrant Summer Peach Fruit Salad combining juicy peaches, fresh berries, and a zesty honey-lime dressing, topped with optional toasted almonds and feta cheese for added texture and flavor. Perfectly refreshing and easy to prepare, this salad is an ideal light treat for hot summer days.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit
- 6 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 1 pint fresh blueberries
- 1 pint fresh raspberries
Herbs and Dressing
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/4 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Peaches: Wash peaches thoroughly, cut around the seam, twist to separate the halves, remove the pits, and slice each peach into 1/2 inch thick wedges. Place the slices into a large mixing bowl for the salad base.
- Add the Berries: Gently rinse the blueberries and raspberries under cold water, then add them carefully to the bowl with the sliced peaches to maintain their shape.
- Chop the Mint: Rinse and dry the fresh mint leaves. Stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and thinly slice to create a chiffonade. Add the chopped mint to the bowl with the fruit for a refreshing herbal note.
- Combine the Liquids: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, and freshly squeezed orange juice until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating the flavorful dressing.
- Add the Lime Zest: Grate the lime zest carefully into the dressing bowl, avoiding the bitter white pith, to add an aromatic citrus punch.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Whisk the dressing once more to fully combine the lime zest with the honey and juices, ensuring the dressing is smooth and evenly flavored.
- Pour the Dressing: Drizzle the prepared honey-lime dressing over the mixed fruit and mint in the large bowl, coating all pieces gently but thoroughly.
- Gently Toss: Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss the fruit salad to evenly distribute the dressing without bruising the delicate fruit.
- Chill (Optional): For enhanced flavor melding, cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Add Toppings (Optional): Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with toasted slivered almonds and crumbled feta cheese, if desired, to add crunch and a creamy, salty contrast.
Notes
- Choose ripe but firm peaches to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
- Optional toppings add texture and a savory contrast but can be omitted for a dairy-free or nut-free version.
- The salad is best served chilled but can be enjoyed immediately after preparation.
- Freshly squeezed citrus juices significantly improve the dressing’s brightness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
