This bright and refreshing salad combines sweet blueberries and juicy peaches with creamy feta cheese. It’s perfect for warm days and adds a burst of color to your table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are vital for this salad’s sweetness. If they’re out of season, frozen blueberries can work nicely too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first!
Peaches: Ripe peaches bring juicy flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, canned peaches in juice (not syrup) can be a good substitute, but rinse them well before using.
Cucumber: The cucumber adds crunch. For a sweeter taste, consider using a fresh bell pepper instead, or even a different melon for a twist!
Feta Cheese: Feta is creamy and tangy, which is perfect here. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu can add a similar texture with some added seasoning.
Olive Oil: While extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor, a light vegetable oil can work if you’re in a pinch. Just keep an eye on the taste!
What’s the Best Way to Toss a Salad Without Making a Mess?
Tossing salad can be tricky, especially with delicate ingredients like feta. Here’s how to do it successfully:
- Use a large bowl to give the ingredients space to move around.
- Start by adding the heavier ingredients (cucumbers, peaches) first and sprinkle feta on top.
- Instead of stirring vigorously, use a gentle folding motion, lifting from the bottom and turning over the top. This helps keep everything intact!
- Dress the salad just before serving to avoid sogginess, and taste to adjust seasoning at the end.
This method helps keep all the vibrant colors and textures intact while ensuring every bite is delicious!
Easy Blueberry Peach Salad with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 2 ripe peaches, diced (leave skin on for color and texture)
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced into rounds
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn or whole
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish you can whip up when you want something fresh and healthy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base of the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh blueberries, diced peaches, cucumber slices, and torn basil leaves. These fruity and refreshing ingredients create a colorful base for your salad!
2. Add the Feta Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the fruit and veggie mix. The feta adds a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the peaches and blueberries beautifully.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or agave), and freshly squeezed lemon juice. This simple dressing will bring all the flavors together.
4. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything to combine well, being careful not to break up the feta too much, so you can enjoy those creamy bites!
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy this delightful combination as a side dish or a refreshing snack!
This salad offers a wonderful balance of sweet, tangy, fresh, and creamy flavors—perfect for warm days or any time you crave something light and delicious!
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries in This Salad?
Yes, frozen blueberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them first. This will help avoid excess moisture in the salad and maintain the right texture!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you need a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu can work as a substitute! Season it with a bit of lemon juice and salt to mimic the tangy flavor of feta. Alternatively, goat cheese can be a delicious replacement if you prefer something with a similar creaminess.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the ingredients fresh, it’s best to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to enjoy it again. Just give it a gentle toss before serving!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Vegetables?
Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. Feel free to add other fruits like strawberries, nectarines, or even some arugula for a peppery kick. Just make sure to maintain the balance of flavors for the best results!
