One of my favorite go-to summer salads is this Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese. Perfect for picnics or light lunches, it features fresh peaches paired with creamy goat cheese, heart-healthy avocado, and crunchy toasted almonds. This salad is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients and flavor, making it an ideal choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a quick option for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of sweet peaches, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese creates a delightful burst of flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or a main course; it’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and healthy fats from avocado, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure your salad-making process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly for an even coating on your salad.
• Salad serving bowl: A beautiful bowl enhances presentation when serving at gatherings or meals.

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients

• 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

this recipe

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

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinaigrette:
* Combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dijon mustard.
* Season with salt and pepper.
* If desired, add a sweetener like sugar or honey.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:
* Add the organic spinach.
* Drizzle with your preferred amount of balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.

Step 3: Add Toppings

Top the salad with:
* Sliced peaches,
* Diced avocado,
* Thinly sliced red onion,
* Goat cheese crumbles,
* Toasted almonds.

Gently toss again to combine all ingredients without mashing the avocado.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Serve the salad fresh for optimal flavor and texture. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a perfect summer meal!

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

Serving this vibrant Summer Peach Spinach Salad is all about enhancing its fresh flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner, there are numerous ways to elevate your salad experience.

As a Main Course

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Serve it with warm quinoa or couscous on the side to make it more filling.

With Fresh Bread

• Pair your salad with crusty artisan bread for a delightful crunch.
• Consider a slice of garlic bread for an added flavor boost.

As a Picnic Delight

• Pack the salad in a portable container for a refreshing picnic option.
• Include individual servings of vinaigrette to keep it fresh until serving.

For Meal Prep

• Store the salad ingredients separately to maintain freshness throughout the week.
• Assemble just before eating to ensure optimal taste and texture.

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

To create the ultimate Summer Peach Spinach Salad, consider these simple yet effective tips. They will enhance both flavor and presentation, making your dish truly irresistible.

• Use ripe peaches: Ensure your peaches are perfectly ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Toast the almonds: Lightly toast your almonds before adding them to the salad; this enhances their nuttiness.
• Chill ingredients: Keep your spinach and other components chilled for a refreshing bite.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper in the dressing according to your preference.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like feta or blue cheese for varied flavor profiles.
• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or mint can elevate the freshness of your salad.

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

This delicious salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add depth and smokiness.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze create a fresh bite.
3. Couscous Salad: A light couscous mix with lemon and herbs provides a fluffy texture that balances well.
4. Fruit Platter: Serve assorted seasonal fruits such as berries or melon for a sweet contrast.
5. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers makes for an elegant addition next to your salad.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf brings protein-rich goodness that complements the salad’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.

• Using Overripe Peaches: Using peaches that are too ripe can lead to a mushy salad. Choose firm but slightly soft peaches for the best texture.

• Not Toasting Almonds: Skipping the toasting process can result in bland flavors. Toasting almonds enhances their nuttiness, making your salad more flavorful.

• Adding Too Much Dressing: Overdressing the salad can make it soggy. Start with a little dressing and add more as needed to keep it fresh and light.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season properly can dull the flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

• Cutting Ingredients Too Large: Cutting peaches or avocado into large pieces can make them difficult to eat. Aim for bite-sized pieces for easier enjoyment.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad is best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

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

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as fresh ingredients do not hold up well once thawed.
• Fresh spinach and avocado will lose their texture when frozen.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread out any components on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat gently in 30-second intervals, avoiding overheating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, warm components gently while stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can definitely customize this salad by adding other seasonal fruits like strawberries or berries. You may also substitute goat cheese with feta or even omit it for a dairy-free version.

How do I make the balsamic vinaigrette?

To make the balsamic vinaigrette, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Adjust sweetness to taste if desired.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare individual components ahead of time but assemble just before serving to maintain freshness. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to toss everything together.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The Summer Peach Spinach Salad is best enjoyed fresh but can last in the fridge for about 1-2 days when stored properly in an airtight container without dressing.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for warm weather meals. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or seasonal ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy all its fresh goodness!

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

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 minute
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese is a refreshing dish perfect for warm weather. This vibrant salad combines juicy peaches with creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted almonds, all nestled on a bed of fresh spinach. Tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette, it’s not only visually appealing but also packed with essential nutrients. Whether served at picnics, BBQs, or as a quick lunch option, this salad is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whip it up in just 15 minutes for a delightful meal that celebrates the flavors of summer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4–6 cups organic spinach
• 2 large peaches (sliced)
• 1 avocado (diced)
• 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced toasted almonds
• Dressing: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt & pepper

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper until well combined.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add spinach and drizzle with desired amount of dressing; toss gently to coat.
3. Top with sliced peaches, diced avocado, red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and toasted almonds; toss gently again.
4. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Salad
• Method: Tossing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Use ripe peaches for maximum sweetness. Toast almonds lightly for enhanced flavor. Customize by adding grilled chicken or swapping cheese varieties.