If you are looking for a refreshing, vibrant, and simply irresistible salad, the Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish bursts with the sweet juiciness of ripe peaches, the peppery crunch of arugula, and the creamy tang of feta cheese, all tied together by a zesty and slightly sweet orange poppyseed dressing. Perfect for warm days or whenever you want a light yet flavorful meal, this salad feels like a celebration of bright flavors and beautiful textures in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe plays a crucial role in building those layers of flavor and texture that make it so special. From the peppery greens and juicy peaches to the crunchy walnuts and creamy feta, each element complements the others perfectly.
- 120g/4oz baby rocket/arugula: Adds a fresh, peppery bite and vibrant green color to the salad.
- 2 yellow peaches: Choose ripe and juicy peaches for natural sweetness and lovely juiciness; nectarines work great too.
- 1/3 cup walnuts: Lightly toasted and chopped for a delightful crunch and a touch of earthiness.
- 70g/2oz creamy Danish feta: Offers rich creaminess and a tangy hit that balances the sweetness.
- 2 tbsp apple cider or white wine vinegar: Brings acidity that brightens the dressing and salad flavors.
- 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Smooth and fruity oil that creates a luscious dressing base; nut oil is a lovely alternative.
- 1 tsp finely grated orange zest: Optional but highly recommended for a fresh citrus punch.
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds subtle heat and depth to make the dressing shine.
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds: Provides a gentle crunch and a mild nutty flavor in the dressing.
- 1/4 tsp sugar: Balances acidity and enhances sweetness.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Essential for rounding out all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
This dressing is the heart of the dish and couldn’t be easier. Combine the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, orange zest, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, sugar, and salt in a jar. Give it a good shake until everything is beautifully emulsified into a silky dressing that promises to tie all the flavors together with a zesty, sweet punch.
Step 2: Toss the Greens
Place the baby rocket into a large mixing bowl, then drizzle a little of the dressing over it. Toss gently to coat the leaves lightly, ensuring the peppery greens get just enough flavor without becoming soggy. This step wakes up the salad and preps the greens for the layers of fruit, nuts, and cheese to come.
Step 3: Layer and Assemble
Now for the fun part! Transfer about a third of the dressed rocket to your serving bowl or plates. Scatter thinly sliced peaches, toasted walnuts, and chunks of creamy feta over the greens. Drizzle with more dressing. Repeat this layering two more times, building a colorful, textured salad. This layering method lets every bite offer a perfect balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy elements.
How to Serve Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding just a little extra can elevate this salad from delicious to truly memorable. Try sprinkling some extra poppy seeds or a few fresh mint leaves on top. A light dusting of black pepper or a few delicate microgreens also adds visual appeal and fresh, subtle flavors that complement the salad’s components.
Side Dishes
This salad shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a crusty artisan bread. If you want a full meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup for a balanced and satisfying summer lunch or dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in individual small bowls or mason jars for picnics or parties. Layer the ingredients to showcase the vibrant colors through clear containers, or use rustic wooden bowls to bring out that fresh, garden-to-table vibe that perfectly suits this dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because this salad features fresh peaches and delicate greens, it’s best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, store the components separately—in airtight containers. Keep the dressing apart and add it just before serving to maintain freshness and crispness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe. The fresh peaches, greens, and dressing will lose their texture and flavor if frozen, resulting in a less enjoyable salad.
Reheating
This salad is served cold and fresh, so reheating is unnecessary and would diminish its vibrant qualities. If you want a warm meal, consider using the salad as a cold side instead.
FAQs
Can I substitute the peaches with another fruit?
Absolutely! Nectarines work wonderfully for their similar texture and sweetness. In a pinch, firm apricots or even mango slices can bring a different but delicious flavor twist to the salad.
Is it possible to make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the orange poppyseed dressing a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good shake before using since ingredients may settle or separate.
What if I don’t have walnuts? What else can I use?
Pecans or almonds are excellent alternatives if you want to keep the crunchy texture. Toast them lightly to bring out their natural oils and flavor.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Goats cheese or a creamy Persian marinated feta works just as well, adding a similar tangy richness that complements the peaches and dressing beautifully.
How long will the salad stay fresh once dressed?
Once tossed with the dressing, it’s best eaten within a couple of hours. The arugula will start to wilt and the peaches may soften, so enjoy it while it’s fresh and vibrant!
Final Thoughts
You really have to try the Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe if you want a dish that combines brightness, creaminess, and crunch in the most harmonious way. It’s simple enough for a quick lunch but elegant and colorful enough to impress guests. This recipe has a way of bringing smiles to the table and making every bite feel like a little celebration of fresh flavors. I hope you love it as much as I do!
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Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Peach Salad II featuring baby rocket (arugula), juicy yellow peaches, toasted walnuts, and creamy Danish feta, all tossed in a tangy orange poppyseed dressing. Perfect for a light, flavorful side dish or a refreshing summer meal.
Ingredients
Salad
- 120g (4oz) baby rocket (arugula)
- 2 yellow peaches, ripe and juicy, halved then cut into thin slices (nectarines also work)
- 1/3 cup walnuts, lightly toasted then broken or chopped into pieces
- 70g (2oz) creamy Danish feta (or Persian marinated feta or goat cheese)
Dressing
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or a nut oil
- 1 tsp orange zest, finely grated (optional)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1/4 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: Combine apple cider or white wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, orange zest, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, sugar, and salt in a jar. Secure the lid and shake well until the ingredients are fully emulsified and blended into a smooth dressing.
- Toss the Rocket: Place the baby rocket in a large bowl. Drizzle a small amount of the orange poppyseed dressing over the greens and gently toss to coat them evenly, ensuring the leaves are lightly dressed.
- Assemble the Salad: Transfer about one-third of the dressed rocket into a serving bowl. Scatter one-third of the peach slices, toasted walnuts, and crumbled or sliced feta cheese on top. Drizzle some more dressing over this layer. Repeat this layering process two more times to build the salad evenly with all ingredients. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- Lightly toasting walnuts enhances their flavor and crunch; toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Using ripe, juicy peaches is essential for the best flavor; nectarines are an excellent substitute if peaches are not available.
- If you prefer a creamier cheese texture, Persian marinated feta or goat cheese can be used instead of Danish feta.
- Orange zest in the dressing is optional but adds a lovely citrus aroma that complements the peaches.
