I make this peach arugula salad when I want something light, fresh, and bursting with summer flavor. The sweetness of ripe peaches pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula, creating a simple yet elegant dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how refreshing and quick this salad is to prepare. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes every bite interesting. I also enjoy how versatile it is—I can serve it as a side or add protein to turn it into a full meal. It feels fancy, but it’s incredibly easy to put together.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh arugula
ripe peaches
red onion
feta cheese or goat cheese
toasted nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
olive oil
lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
honey (optional)
salt
black pepper
Directions
I start by washing and drying the arugula, then placing it in a large bowl.
I slice the peaches into thin wedges and thinly slice the red onion. I add both to the bowl with the arugula.
I sprinkle in the cheese and toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.
In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or balsamic vinegar, a touch of honey if I want sweetness, along with salt and pepper.
I drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to combine without bruising the peaches.
I serve it immediately while everything is fresh and vibrant.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2–4
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10–15 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it more filling. Prosciutto is another favorite addition when I want a salty contrast. I also like swapping the nuts for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. If peaches aren’t in season, I use nectarines or even strawberries.
storage/reheating
I prefer eating this salad fresh, but I can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day. I keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent the greens from wilting. I don’t reheat this salad since it’s best served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
I can, but I prefer fresh peaches for the best texture and flavor. If I use canned, I make sure to drain them well.
What can I use instead of arugula?
I sometimes swap it with spinach or mixed greens if I want a milder taste.
Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, it is vegetarian. I just make sure the cheese I use fits my preference.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
I prepare the ingredients ahead, but I assemble it just before serving to keep everything crisp.
What dressing works best?
I enjoy a simple vinaigrette with olive oil and lemon juice or balsamic vinegar—it complements the peaches perfectly.
Conclusion
I keep making this peach arugula salad because it’s fresh, colorful, and incredibly easy. It’s one of those recipes that feels special without requiring much effort, and it always brings a bright, seasonal touch to my table.
Print
Peach Arugula Salad
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10–15 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and refreshing peach arugula salad combining sweet juicy peaches, peppery greens, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts with a simple vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup toasted nuts (almonds or walnuts)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and dry the arugula, then place it in a large bowl.
- Slice the peaches into thin wedges and thinly slice the red onion.
- Add the peaches and red onion to the bowl with the arugula.
- Sprinkle the cheese and toasted nuts over the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately while fresh.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm peaches for the best texture.
- Swap arugula with spinach or mixed greens for a milder flavor.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or prosciutto for extra protein.
- Try nectarines or strawberries if peaches are not available.
- Keep dressing separate if storing to prevent wilting.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 1 day in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
