Blueberry Peach Feta Salad đ«đ â A Sweet, Savory, Summer Salad You’ll Crave All Season
When summerâs freshest ingredients meet in one bowl, magic happens. This Blueberry Peach Feta Salad is a vibrant blend of sweet fruit, creamy cheese, crunchy cucumbers, and a tangy lemon-basil vinaigrette. Itâs light, flavorful, and bursting with textureâthe kind of salad youâll want to serve at brunch, take to a picnic, or eat straight from the bowl on a warm afternoon.
The combination of juicy peaches and tart blueberries adds a natural sweetness thatâs balanced by the salty creaminess of crumbled feta and the refreshing crunch of Persian cucumbers. Drizzled with a zesty homemade vinaigrette, this salad becomes a true seasonal masterpiece. Plus, itâs packed with antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fatsâmaking it as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting friends or meal-prepping for the week, this is a no-fuss, no-cook recipe thatâs sure to impress.
Ingredients for Blueberry Peach Feta Salad
- Produce: 1 tbsp chopped basil, 1 pint fresh blueberries, 2 ripe peaches (sliced), 2 Persian cucumbers (sliced)
- Condiments: 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp honey, 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Spices: Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Oils & Vinegars: 1 tbsp olive oil
- Dairy: 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the produce: In a large bowl, mix the chopped basil, fresh blueberries, sliced peaches, and sliced Persian cucumbers.
- Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Emulsify: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to form a smooth, cohesive dressing.
- Dress the salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the fruit and vegetable mixture. Gently toss to coat evenly.
- Add feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta over the salad.
- Final toss: Toss one more time gently to distribute the feta.
- Serve immediately as a light lunch, side salad, or starter. Enjoy!
Health Benefits
- Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin Câgreat for skin, heart, and brain health.
- Peaches: High in vitamins A and C, peaches support digestion and boost immunity.
- Cucumbers: Hydrating and low in calories; support detox and digestion.
- Feta: A calcium-rich cheese with fewer calories than most other cheeses.
- Olive oil & lemon: Provide heart-healthy fats and vitamin C for an immune boost.
Chefâs Tips
- Use ripe but firm peaches for the best textureâthey should slice cleanly without becoming mushy.
- Persian cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and crunch. English cucumbers also work well.
- Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, quinoa, or avocado for a more filling dish.
- Chill the salad for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors marry and enhance the refreshing factor.
- Swap in goat cheese, mint, or even arugula to create variations.
Quotes from Celebrity Chefs
Ina Garten: âThis is my kind of summer saladâfresh, beautiful, and bursting with flavor.â
Jamie Oliver: âSweet fruit, salty cheese, sharp dressingâthis is the balance of brilliant food.â
Giada De Laurentiis: âSo Mediterranean. I could eat this every day and not get bored.â
Gordon Ramsay: âBeautiful texture, color, acidity. Itâs like a composed plate at a five-star restaurant.â
Chrissy Teigen: âIâd eat this in my pajamas or serve it at a dinner party. Versatile and delish.â
Martha Stewart: âPerfect for garden lunches or bridal showers. A stunner on the table.â
Christina Tosi: âDessert and salad in one? Iâm in!â
Alton Brown: âHigh flavor-to-effort ratio. This dish is efficient and satisfying.â
Rachael Ray: âSweet, salty, tangy, and super fastâmy kinda summer recipe.â
Bobby Flay: âGreat on its own or with grilled meat. The flavor contrast is on point.â
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! Combine the fruit and veggies ahead of time, but add the dressing and feta just before serving.
2. Can I use frozen blueberries? Fresh is best, but thawed frozen berries can work. Just blot them dry to avoid watering down the salad.
3. What can I use instead of feta? Try goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, or ricotta salata for different textures and flavors.
4. Is there a vegan option? Yes! Use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based feta or omit the cheese entirely.
5. Can I use other fruit? Absolutelyânectarines, strawberries, or plums all make great substitutes or additions.
6. Is this gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
7. What protein goes well with this? Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas pair wonderfully.
8. Can I double the recipe? Yes! Perfect for a crowd. Just scale all ingredients evenly.
9. How long does it last? Best eaten fresh, but it will keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours (without becoming soggy).
10. Can I add greens? Yesâbaby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens add volume and more nutrients.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving â Approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 9g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 20% DV
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
- For best texture: Keep the vinaigrette separate and toss before serving.
- Do not freeze: The fruit and cheese do not hold up well after freezing.
Related Recipes Youâll Love
- Peach Basil Caprese Salad
- Watermelon Feta Mint Bowl
- Berry Lime Quinoa Salad
- Cucumber Tomato Summer Salad
- Lemon Honey Vinaigrette
Conclusion: Sweet, Salty, and So Refreshing
This Blueberry Peach Feta Salad is a love letter to summer. It brings together bold flavors, beautiful colors, and nourishing ingredients in a dish thatâs both sophisticated and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a dinner party side, or a healthy indulgence, this salad hits the spot. So grab a bowl, embrace the seasonâs best produce, and let every bite transport you to warm sunshine and cool breezes. đ«đđż