If you’re craving a vibrant, refreshing salad that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, you’ve just found it. This Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe brings together juicy peaches, peppery arugula, crunchy toasted walnuts, and tangy feta, all tossed in a luscious homemade orange poppyseed dressing that brightens every bite. It’s such a delightful combination that feels both elegant and effortlessly simple—ideal for summer lunches, light dinners, or impressing guests with something a little special but totally approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a beautiful role in creating a layered taste experience. Each item is surprisingly simple yet absolutely essential for delivering that perfect harmony of textures, colors, and flavors on your plate.
- Baby rocket/arugula: Offers a fresh, slightly peppery base that adds a vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Ripe yellow peaches: Bring natural sweetness and juicy softness; nectarines work just as well if you prefer.
- Walnuts: Lightly toasted for a toasty crunch and nutty depth to contrast the tender fruit and greens.
- Creamy Danish feta: Adds salty tang and creaminess; Persian marinated feta or goat cheese are great alternatives.
- Apple cider or white wine vinegar: Provides acidity that balances the richness and sweetness in the dressing.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Or you can use a nut oil for a richer, more complex mouthfeel in the dressing.
- Orange zest: Finely grated to infuse bright citrus notes that harmonize beautifully with the peaches.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a mild sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing.
- Poppy seeds: Add a subtle crunch and a lovely speckled look to the dressing.
- Sugar and salt: Balance all the flavors perfectly, tying the sweet, tangy, and savory elements together.
How to Make Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Whip Up the Dressing
The heart of this salad is in the dressing, which is wonderfully quick to make. Simply combine apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, orange zest, poppy seeds, sugar, and salt in a jar. Give it a good shake until everything is nicely emulsified. This dressing bursts with a tang and sweetness that complements the peaches perfectly, while the poppy seeds add a whimsical crunch to every forkful.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
Place the baby rocket or arugula into a large bowl. Drizzle in just a small amount of the dressing—this light coating helps the peppery greens stay bright and fresh without wilting. Toss gently to ensure that every leaf is kissed by the citrusy, tangy dressing that sets the stage for the rest of the layers.
Step 3: Layer and Assemble
For a stunning presentation and perfectly balanced flavors, layer one-third of the dressed rocket into your serving bowl. Scatter a portion of the thinly sliced peaches, followed by toasted walnut pieces and crumbled creamy feta. Drizzle with some of the remaining dressing. Repeat this layering process two more times—this method ensures every bite has a fabulous mix of juicy fruit, crunchy nuts, tangy cheese, and dressed greens. Serve right away for the freshest taste.
How to Serve Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the natural beauty of this salad, consider adding a few fresh mint leaves or basil ribbons on top. These herbs lend a lovely aromatic note that enhances the fruity and cheesy elements. A light sprinkle of extra toasted walnuts or even a few edible flowers can add delightful texture and visual appeal, making your plate as gorgeous as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light protein complement. A crusty artisan bread or garlic focaccia alongside can soak up every last drop of the luscious dressing. For a vegetarian spread, adding a side of quinoa, couscous, or a chickpea salad can turn this into a beautifully balanced meal that’s perfect for warmer months.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine serving this peach salad in clear glass bowls or on rustic wooden boards for a charming, casual gathering vibe. You can also scale it down into individual portions in small bowls or jars for picnics or elegant parties. Layering the ingredients thoughtfully and finishing with a drizzle of dressing right before serving showcases the vibrant colors and textures that make this dish so irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because of the fresh peaches and delicate dressing, it’s best to store any leftovers separately if possible. Keep the salad greens and sliced peaches in an airtight container in the fridge and the dressing in a separate jar. When ready to eat again, toss everything freshly together to keep the salad crisp and flavorful.
Freezing
This fresh Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe doesn’t freeze well because the juicy peaches and soft feta change texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a day or two.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold and fresh, reheating is not recommended. The vibrant ingredients shine brightest straight from the fridge or at room temperature after tossing.
FAQs
Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or pistachios can work beautifully if you want a different nutty crunch. Just toast them lightly to bring out their flavor.
What if I can’t find Danish feta?
You can use Persian marinated feta or even tangy goat cheese instead. The key is finding something creamy and slightly salty to balance the sweetness of the peaches.
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh orange zest?
Fresh orange zest packs a much brighter, more fragrant punch compared to bottled juice. If you only have juice, add sparingly and consider adding a touch of orange extract to mimic that zing.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
To make it vegan, simply swap the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it altogether. The salad and dressing will stay just as delicious and fresh.
How long does the salad keep after it’s dressed?
It’s best enjoyed within a few hours of dressing to keep the peaches firm and the greens from wilting. If you need to wait longer, keep everything separate and toss right before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Peach Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing and Feta Recipe is truly a delightful celebration of fresh ingredients and bright flavors. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch, a beautiful side, or an easy dish to impress friends, this salad is a total winner. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with that perfect blend of sweet peaches, peppery greens, tangy feta, and zesty dressing. Enjoy every vibrant bite!
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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 refreshing and vibrant Peach Salad II featuring baby rocket/arugula, ripe yellow peaches, toasted walnuts, and creamy Danish feta, all tossed in a tangy Orange Poppyseed Dressing. This quick and easy salad is perfect for a light meal or a delightful side dish during warm weather.
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 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
- Dressing Preparation: Shake all the dressing ingredients—apple cider or white wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, orange zest, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, sugar, and salt—in a jar until well combined and emulsified.
- Coat the Greens: Place the baby rocket/arugula in a bowl. Drizzle a small amount of the prepared dressing over it and gently toss to lightly coat the leaves without wilting them.
- Assemble the Salad: Transfer one-third of the dressed rocket to a serving bowl. Scatter one-third of the peach slices, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta over it. Drizzle with some of the remaining dressing. Repeat the layering process two more times, finishing with dressing on top. Serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before chopping.
- Nectarines can be used as a substitute for peaches if desired.
- Use a milder nut oil in the dressing if preferred, such as walnut or avocado oil, to complement the dressing’s flavor.
- Orange zest is optional but adds a lovely citrus aroma to the dressing.
