This fresh arugula salad is bursting with flavors! With sweet peaches and crunchy pecans, it’s a perfect combination of healthy and tasty. It’s great for warm days or as a light side dish!
There’s just something about the sweet and nutty mix that makes my taste buds dance. I love serving it at gatherings—everyone asks for the recipe! It’s super simple to toss together too.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: This is the star of the salad! Arugula’s peppery flavor adds depth. If you can’t find it, spinach can work in a pinch, but it lacks that signature bite.
Peaches: Ripe peaches give this salad its sweetness. If peaches aren’t in season, consider using nectarines or even canned peaches (drained) for convenience.
Pecans: Toasting them enhances their flavor and crunch. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are excellent alternatives.
Creamy Cheese: I love goat cheese for its tanginess, but feta works nicely too. For a dairy-free option, try using a cashew cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
Honey Mustard Dressing: I prefer this homemade dressing, but store-bought vinaigrettes can save time. Look for something with a similar flavor profile!
How Do I Properly Toast Pecans?
Toasting pecans is easy and brings out their wonderful flavor! Here’s how you do it:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat—no oil needed!
- Add the pecans and stir them around to ensure they toast evenly.
- Keep an eye on them and toast for 3-5 minutes, until they’re fragrant and slightly golden.
- Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning, and let cool before adding to your salad!
This simple step makes a huge difference in taste. Toasting nuts enhances their nuttiness—just wait until you smell the aroma filling your kitchen!
Fresh Arugula Salad with Sweet Peach and Crunchy Pecans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Honey Mustard Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, including making the dressing and toasting the pecans. It’s a quick, fresh dish perfect for busy days or a delightful side for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice). Then, slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This will help the dressing to blend well. Season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Set it aside for later.
2. Toast the Pecans:
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll know they’re done when they’re aromatic and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let them cool a little.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large serving bowl or plate, spread the fresh arugula evenly. Place the sliced peaches on top of the arugula, and sprinkle the toasted pecans over everything. Take a moment to admire your beautiful salad!
4. Add Cheese and Dressing:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta over your salad. Drizzle the pre-made honey mustard dressing all over, making sure everything gets a bit of that yummy flavor.
5. Final Touch:
For the finishing touch, add a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper on top for a little extra zing!
6. Serve Immediately:
Dig in right away for the freshest taste! This salad can serve as a light main dish or a delightful side. Enjoy every bite of the sweet peaches, crunchy pecans, and peppery arugula!
This salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that you and your friends will love. Happy eating!
Fresh Arugula Salad with Sweet Peach and Crunchy Pecans – FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
While fresh peaches offer the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen peaches if that’s all you have. Just make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid wilting the greens. When ready, toss the salad lightly with the dressing for freshness!
Can I Substitute the Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or prefer to omit them, you can use seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. Croutons are also a delicious alternative!
What’s a Good Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If goat cheese isn’t your thing, feta cheese is a great alternative with a similar tanginess. For a dairy-free option, try using a cashew-based cheese or simply skip the cheese altogether!
