Simple Peach Feta Salad: A Fresh Taste of Summer

There’s something magical about a summer salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying. This Simple Peach Feta Salad delivers exactly that — a medley of juicy peaches, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs that come together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, enjoying a quiet lunch on the patio, or looking for a light dinner, this colorful dish fits the moment perfectly.

This recipe takes advantage of seasonal ingredients like ripe peaches and vibrant cherry tomatoes, creating a sweet-and-salty balance that feels indulgent yet wholesome. And it’s more than just delicious — this salad packs a nutrient punch thanks to its fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. To make the most of the flavor, make sure your peaches are perfectly ripe. If you’re not sure how to pick them, this guide on how to choose ripe peaches from Bon Appétit can help.

The health benefits don’t stop there. Feta cheese not only adds richness but also contributes calcium and protein to your meal. For those interested in understanding more about this savory ingredient, here’s a breakdown of the nutritional profile of feta cheese by Healthline that’s worth checking out.

Why This Peach Feta Salad Works

• Uses minimal ingredients with maximum flavor
• Balances sweet, tangy, creamy, and herby notes
• Can be prepped in under 25 minutes
• Easily customizable based on your dietary preferences

Ingredients You’ll Need

Salad:

• 3 large peaches, ripe, pitted, and sliced into wedges
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ small shallot, thinly sliced
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (or vegan feta)
• ~10 large leaves fresh basil, chopped
• ~10 large leaves fresh mint, chopped

Dressing:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
• Juice from ½ a lemon
• 1 tsp honey
• ½ tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

• Peaches are high in vitamin C, vitamin A, and dietary fiber
• Tomatoes bring in lycopene, a potent antioxidant
• Feta cheese adds calcium and protein without overwhelming fat
• Herbs like mint and basil are anti-inflammatory and aid digestion
• The olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats

How to Make Peach Feta Salad

1. Make the Dressing
   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Assemble the Salad
   • In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, cherry tomatoes, shallots, feta, basil, and mint.
3. Toss and Serve
   • Pour the dressing over the salad.
   • Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
   • Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for up to 30 minutes for more flavor depth.

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Swap nectarines for peaches
• Use heirloom tomatoes for added color
• Add sliced avocado for creaminess
• Sprinkle with chopped almonds or pecans for crunch
• Drizzle a little balsamic glaze for extra sweetness

What to Serve with Peach Feta Salad

This salad shines as a side dish or a light entrée. Pair it with:

• Grilled salmon with dill yogurt sauce
• Garlic shrimp with smoked paprika
• Honey garlic baked tofu for a vegetarian option
• Grilled chicken or steak for a hearty twist

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

• Store ingredients separately and mix just before serving
• Dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance
• Leftovers will keep for 1 day, though the peaches may soften

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using underripe peaches — they lack sweetness and juiciness
• Overdressing the salad — leads to sogginess
• Mixing too far in advance — textures and flavors may suffer
• Skipping the herbs — they’re essential to balancing the salad

Variations to Try

• Add quinoa or farro to bulk up the salad for a meal
• Use arugula or baby spinach as a leafy base
• Mix in berries like blueberries or strawberries for more fruit complexity
• Top with crispy chickpeas or toasted seeds for texture

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Fresh is best, but in a pinch, canned peaches in juice (not syrup) or thawed frozen peaches can work.

How do you keep peaches from browning in a salad?
Toss them in a bit of lemon juice to slow oxidation.

Is feta necessary?
You can substitute goat cheese or a vegan feta-style alternative.

Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, though the homemade version is quick and adds better flavor control.

What herbs go best with peaches?
Mint, basil, thyme, and even tarragon complement peaches beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Peach Feta Salad is more than just an easy recipe — it’s a celebration of fresh, seasonal produce and balanced flavors. With minimal prep and endless versatility, it’s bound to become your go-to summer side. Whether you enjoy it solo or pair it with a protein, it offers a delicious way to embrace the taste of summer — one bite at a time.