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
Scale
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.
