Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese

One of my favorite go-to summer salads is this Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese. This vibrant dish is perfect for any occasion, from picnics to casual dinners. The combination of juicy peaches, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Drizzled with an easy homemade balsamic vinaigrette, this salad not only looks stunning but also tastes incredible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This salad is loaded with seasonal produce that enhances its flavor.
• Quick Preparation: You can whip it up in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Nutrient-Packed: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, it’s a great option for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main dish or a side, it complements various meals beautifully.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Salad serving bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for whisking the dressing and tossing the salad ingredients together.
• Whisk: Helps to combine the dressing ingredients smoothly without clumps.
• Salad serving bowl: Ideal for presenting your beautiful salad to guests.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing peaches and dicing avocado quick and easy.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this refreshing salad:

For the Salad

• 4-6 cups organic spinach
• 2 large peaches, sliced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 small red onion, very thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles (or sub feta)
• 1/2 cup sliced toasted almonds

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
• Optional: 1-2 teaspoons sugar, pure maple syrup or honey to sweeten dressing
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinaigrette ingredients:
* Balsamic vinegar
* Extra virgin olive oil
* Minced garlic
* Dijon mustard
Add salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add sugar or honey at this stage.

Step 2: Toss the Spinach

In a large bowl, add the organic spinach. Drizzle with your desired amount of balsamic vinaigrette. Toss gently until the spinach is well coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Top the spinach with:
* Sliced peaches
* Diced avocado
* Thinly sliced red onion
* Goat cheese crumbles
* Sliced toasted almonds

Toss everything together very gently to ensure all ingredients are mixed without bruising the delicate toppings. Serve immediately for the best flavor!

How to Serve Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese

Serving this delightful Summer Peach Spinach Salad is easy and versatile. You can enjoy it as a light lunch or pair it with your favorite main dish for a complete meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Light Lunch

• This salad makes for a refreshing and nutritious lunch option. Pair it with whole-grain crackers or a slice of crusty bread for added texture.

With Grilled Proteins

• Top the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for a heartier meal. The savory flavors of grilled proteins complement the sweetness of peaches beautifully.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in a whole wheat wrap. Add some extra goat cheese and your favorite dressing for a portable lunch idea.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or fish at your next BBQ. The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten up any plate.

How to Perfect Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese

To ensure you create the perfect Summer Peach Spinach Salad, consider these helpful tips that elevate both flavor and presentation.

• Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness and juiciness in your salad.
• Toast almonds lightly: Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds crunch. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
• Use fresh spinach: Opt for organic spinach leaves that are bright green and crisp, ensuring maximum freshness.
• Experiment with dressings: While balsamic vinaigrette is delicious, try other dressings like honey mustard or citrus vinaigrette for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese

This salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that can complement its fresh flavors. Here are some tasty options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a nice crunch and pairs well with the salad’s sweetness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish seasoned with herbs offers protein while keeping things healthy.
3. Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasted seasonal veggies bring warmth and depth that balance the coolness of the salad.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an easy-to-eat appetizer.
5. Hummus Platter: Offer an array of colorful vegetables and pita chips alongside hummus for dipping.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb side that complements the freshness of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few mistakes when preparing the Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Overdressing the salad – Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the fresh flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Choosing unripe peaches – Using hard peaches will result in a less flavorful salad. Opt for ripe, juicy peaches for the best taste.
• Not toasting the almonds – Toasting enhances the flavor of almonds significantly. Always toast them before adding to the salad for extra crunch and depth.
• Skipping the sweetener – A touch of sweetness in your dressing can balance out the acidity. Don’t skip this step; try sugar, maple syrup, or honey.
• Making it too far in advance – This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Prepare it just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp and vibrant.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for best freshness.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in spinach and avocado.
• If you must freeze, only freeze components like toasted almonds separately.

Reheating Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese

• Oven – Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. Be careful not to wilt the spinach.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until just warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different greens in my Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other greens like arugula or kale for added flavor and nutrition.

What other nuts can I use instead of almonds?

You can substitute walnuts or pecans if you prefer. Both will add a unique flavor profile to your salad.

How do I choose ripe peaches for this salad?

Look for peaches that yield slightly when gently squeezed and have a fragrant aroma. They should be free from bruises.

Can I add protein to my Summer Peach Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas make great additions if you’re looking for extra protein.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding proteins or swapping out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give it a try this summer—you won’t be disappointed!