This refreshing arugula salad combines peppery greens with juicy peaches and crunchy toasted pecans. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
I love how the sweet peaches add a burst of sunshine to each bite. Plus, the toasted pecans give it a nice crunch—who doesn’t enjoy a little crunch in their salad?
This salad is super easy to make. Just toss everything together, and you have a delicious meal or side! I often serve it at gatherings, and it’s always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: The star of this salad! Its peppery flavor balances the sweetness of peaches. If you can’t find arugula, go for baby spinach or mixed greens as a milder substitute.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches offer sweetness. If out of season, consider using nectarines or canned peach slices (drained) for a quick fix!
Pecans: Toasted pecans bring crunch and depth. Walnuts or almonds can work as alternatives, though they have different flavors. Just toast them similarly to enhance taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty creaminess. Goat cheese or blue cheese works too if you prefer something different!
Honey Mustard Vinaigrette: This dressing is zesty and sweet. You can swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan option or use any vinegar you like, such as balsamic.
How Do I Toast Pecans Perfectly?
Toasting pecans boosts their flavor and gives them a delightful crunch. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a dry skillet, heating it on medium.
- Add the pecans and stir occasionally for 3-5 minutes.
- Watch closely to prevent burning—they should be fragrant and lightly brown.
- Once toasted, remove from heat and let them cool on a plate!
Toasting is quick and easy. It makes a huge difference in flavor, so don’t skip it!
Fresh Arugula Salad With Sweet Peach And Toasted Pecans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula leaves, washed and dried
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced into thin wedges
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Honey Mustard Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This vibrant salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend approximately 5 minutes to toast the pecans and mix the dressing, and another 10 minutes to assemble the salad. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
Start by placing the pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring or shaking the pan occasionally, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning! Once toasted, remove from heat and let them cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. This will add a lovely tangy flavor to your salad!
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl or on a serving platter, place the fresh arugula leaves as the base. Next, arrange the peach slices evenly over the arugula. Their sweetness will balance the peppery greens perfectly!
4. Add Pecans and Cheese:
Now, scatter the toasted pecans and crumbled feta cheese over the top. The crunchy pecans and creamy feta will give the salad extra texture and flavor!
5. Dress the Salad:
Just before serving, drizzle the honey mustard vinaigrette over the salad. This will keep the arugula nice and crisp. You can also toss everything together gently if you prefer!
6. Season and Serve:
Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper to taste over your salad. Serve it right away to enjoy its freshness! This tasty salad makes a fantastic addition to grilled chicken or can be served as a light side dish on warm days.
Enjoy your refreshing arugula salad with sweet peach and toasted pecans!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches provide a sweet touch, you can substitute them with ripe nectarines, plums, or even seasonal berries for a different flavor twist. Just ensure the fruits are ripe for the best taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best texture, keep the dressing separate and dress the salad just before serving. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a plant-based cheese. Additionally, swap honey for maple syrup in the vinaigrette for a completely vegan-friendly dressing.
How Do I Toast Pecans Without Burning Them?
To toast pecans perfectly, heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the pecans. Stir them frequently for 3-5 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Keep an eye on them, as they can quickly go from perfect to burned!
