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

One of my favorite summer salads is the Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese. This refreshing dish combines sweet peaches, creamy goat cheese, and heart-healthy avocado for a delightful experience. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch, this salad shines with its vibrant colors and flavors. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and will impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: This salad features seasonal peaches and organic spinach, ensuring maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a light lunch or as a side for grilled meats at summer gatherings.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with vitamins from spinach and healthy fats from avocado, it’s a guilt-free option.
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust the dressing sweetness or cheese type to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and ensures consistent results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Salad serving bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Ideal for preparing the vinaigrette and tossing the salad without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that your dressing ingredients blend perfectly for an even flavor profile.
• Salad serving bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for mixing without damaging delicate ingredients.

Ingredients

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 teaspoon 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: Make the Vinaigrette

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
* Balsamic vinegar
* Extra virgin olive oil
* Minced garlic
* Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper

If desired, add a sweetener like sugar or honey for extra flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large bowl:
1. Add the organic spinach.
2. Drizzle with your desired amount of balsamic vinaigrette.
3. Toss gently to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

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

Toss very gently again to mix without bruising the fruit.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Enjoy this vibrant salad right away for optimal freshness! This recipe serves four people and is perfect for sharing at any summer gathering.

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

This delightful salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch on a warm day. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with the Summer Peach Spinach Salad.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken adds protein and complements the fresh flavors of the salad. Simply slice it and place on top of the salad for a hearty meal.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• A nice piece of crusty bread or a baguette can be served on the side. It’s perfect for scooping up the delicious dressing and enjoying every bite.

Add Extra Toppings

• Consider adding extra toppings like sliced strawberries or blueberries for a burst of sweetness. This will elevate the flavor profile even more.

Drizzle More Dressing

• Serve with additional balsamic vinaigrette on the side. Guests can add as much dressing as they like, ensuring everyone enjoys their salad to the fullest.

Offer a Refreshing Beverage

• Pair this salad with a refreshing drink such as iced tea or lemonade. The coolness complements the freshness of the salad beautifully.

Present in Individual Bowls

• For a more elegant touch, serve individual portions in small bowls. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy and gives a lovely presentation.

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

To make sure your Summer Peach Spinach Salad is nothing short of perfect, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose ripe peaches: Look for peaches that yield slightly when pressed; they should be fragrant and slightly soft.
• Toast your almonds: Lightly toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. This enhances their flavor and adds crunch.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality goat cheese make all the difference in taste; always opt for organic when possible.
• Balance flavors: Adjust acidity by modifying balsamic vinegar levels to suit your taste preference; some may prefer it tangier while others might want it sweeter.
• Chill before serving: Allowing your salad to chill for 30 minutes before serving can enhance flavors and provide a refreshing experience.
• Experiment with cheeses: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feta or blue cheese can provide different yet delicious flavor profiles.

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

Complement your Summer Peach Spinach Salad with these tasty side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Grilled Vegetables
2. A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until tender makes for a colorful addition that pairs well with this salad.
3. Quinoa Salad
4. A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes brings added nutrition and texture alongside your peach spinach salad.
5. Caprese Skewers
6. Fresh mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze create an enticing appetizer or side dish.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
8. Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness, which harmonizes beautifully with the flavors in the salad.
9. Fruit Platter
10. A platter of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of avocado and goat cheese.
11. Hummus & Veggie Sticks
12. A creamy hummus served with crisp carrot sticks and cucumber slices provides crunch while being healthy and satisfying.
13. Cheese Board
14. An assorted cheese board featuring mild cheeses complements both textures and flavors without overpowering the main dish.
15. Pasta Salad
16. A cold pasta salad tossed in olive oil, herbs, and roasted vegetables adds heartiness that pairs well with your summer peach spinach delight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the taste and texture of your salad. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Using unripe peaches: Unripe peaches lack sweetness and flavor. Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best results.
• Chopping ingredients too large: Large pieces can make it difficult to eat the salad. Slice fruits and vegetables into bite-sized pieces for a better experience.
• Skipping the toasted almonds: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor and crunch. Always toast them lightly before adding to the salad.
• Not balancing flavors: If your salad tastes one-dimensional, adjust with more seasoning or a splash of vinegar for acidity. Experiment until you find the right balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: This helps keep your salad fresh and prevents wilting.
• Consume within 2 days: For optimal taste and quality, enjoy leftovers within two days.
• Keep dressing separate: Store dressing in a small container to prevent sogginess until you’re ready to serve.

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

• Not recommended for freezing: The texture of spinach and avocado does not hold up well after freezing.
• Use fresh ingredients for best results: Always prepare this salad fresh for maximum flavor and crispness.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Spread any leftover components (excluding spinach) on a baking sheet until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use short intervals (10-15 seconds) to warm selected components, but avoid heating greens.
• Stovetop: Lightly sauté any leftover vegetables in a pan over low heat until warmed through without cooking down too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese?

Yes! You can add or swap ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding berries, nuts, or different cheese varieties!

What dressing goes well with peach spinach salad?

A homemade balsamic vinaigrette pairs wonderfully but feel free to explore other dressings like citrus or honey mustard vinaigrettes.

How do I choose ripe peaches for my salad?

Look for peaches that are slightly soft when gently squeezed and have a sweet aroma. Avoid any that have green patches or are overly firm.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prep individual ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving for freshness.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

The Summer Peach Spinach Salad is best enjoyed within 2 days of preparation if stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese is not only refreshing but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its combination of sweet peaches, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy almonds makes it an irresistible dish. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to create a unique twist that suits your taste! Enjoy this delightful summer salad at picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch option!