Blueberry Peach Feta Salad

A vibrant summer salad with juicy fruit, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans in a tangy vinaigrette

Introduction

When the warm breeze of summer rolls in and farmer’s markets overflow with ripe fruit and leafy greens, there’s no better time to enjoy the bright flavors of a fresh salad. Enter the Blueberry Peach Feta Salad — a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy elements all tossed in a luscious balsamic vinaigrette.

This salad is a celebration of summer produce. It pairs the juicy tartness of blueberries and the sweetness of peaches with the salty, creamy tang of feta cheese and the earthy crunch of chopped pecans. The mixed greens provide a fresh and mild backdrop that lets the star ingredients shine. Finished with a simple homemade balsamic dressing, this dish becomes more than just a salad—it’s a full-on sensory experience.

Perfect for lunches, light dinners, summer barbecues, or elegant brunches, this salad offers flexibility, beauty, and vibrant flavor in every bite. It’s vegetarian-friendly, quick to assemble, and easily customizable to suit your preferences.

 Ingredients (US Cups & Common Measurements)

For the Salad:

• 3 cups mixed salad greens (spring mix, arugula, or spinach work well)

• 1 ripe peach, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)

• 1 cup fresh blueberries

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ¼ cup chopped pecans (toasted if desired)

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar

• ½ cup olive oil

• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

 Preparation Time & Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

• Servings: 2 hearty servings or 3–4 side servings

• Approximate Calories: 300 kcal per serving (based on 2 servings)

Macronutrient Breakdown (per serving):

• Carbohydrates: ~20g

• Protein: ~6g

• Fat: ~24g

• Fiber: ~4g

• Sugars: ~15g

 Instructions: Step-by-Step

 Step 1 – Prepare the Salad Base

Start by placing 3 cups of mixed salad greens in a large bowl. If the greens are bagged, give them a rinse and pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure freshness and crispness.

Next, add your fruit and toppings:

• Thinly slice 1 ripe peach and scatter it evenly over the greens.

• Add 1 cup of fresh blueberries.

• Sprinkle on ½ cup crumbled feta cheese for a salty, creamy contrast.

• Finally, top it off with ¼ cup chopped pecans for added texture and richness.

Optional: Toast the pecans in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. This enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch.

 Step 2 – Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or glass jar, combine:

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar

• ½ cup olive oil

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• A pinch of salt and pepper to your taste

Whisk together or shake the jar until the dressing is fully emulsified and has a smooth consistency.

Tip: This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

 Step 3 – Dress and Toss

Just before serving:

• Drizzle the dressing over the salad base.

• Gently toss with salad tongs or clean hands to evenly coat all ingredients with the vinaigrette.

Be gentle—this helps preserve the delicate textures of the fruit and feta.

 Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and crunch. You can also chill the salad in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

This salad is perfect as a standalone dish or alongside grilled proteins like chicken, shrimp, or salmon.

 Tips and Variations

 How to Choose Ingredients

• Greens: Go for spring mix or baby spinach for tenderness. Add a bit of arugula for peppery flavor.

• Peaches: Use ripe peaches that are slightly soft to the touch. Nectarines or plums also work.

• Blueberries: Use fresh, firm berries. Frozen won’t give the same pop or visual appeal.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty punch. Goat cheese or blue cheese are excellent alternatives.

• Pecans: Walnuts or almonds can be used if pecans aren’t available.

 Dressing Tips

• For a creamier version, whisk in a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt.

• Add a clove of minced garlic for extra zest.

• Want a tangier kick? Use white balsamic or apple cider vinegar instead.

 How to Prepare This Salad Like a Pro

1. Layering for Visual Appeal

When serving to guests or for a presentation, layer ingredients in a wide shallow bowl:

• Start with greens.

• Neatly arrange peach slices in a fan pattern.

• Sprinkle blueberries in clusters.

• Crumble feta over the top.

• Finish with pecans and a final drizzle of vinaigrette.

2. Prepping Ahead

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the components ahead:

• Greens: Wash and dry, then store in a sealed container with a paper towel.

• Peach slices: Slice right before serving to avoid browning.

• Dressing: Make up to 3 days in advance and store in a sealed jar.

• Pecans and Feta: Pre-chop and keep ready in containers.

 Serving Ideas

• Summer Lunch: Pair with iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.

• Picnic Platter: Serve alongside a baguette and hummus.

• BBQ Side Dish: Complements grilled chicken or portobello mushrooms beautifully.

• Brunch Table: Add boiled eggs and serve with a mimosa for a fancy weekend meal.

 Customization Ideas

 Final Thoughts

The Blueberry Peach Feta Salad is more than just a seasonal dish — it’s a refreshing explosion of flavor and texture that showcases the best of summer produce. Its effortless preparation, colorful ingredients, and customizable elements make it an excellent addition to your healthy recipe rotation.

Whether you’re eating light, entertaining guests, or simply want something quick and delicious, this salad delivers on all fronts. It’s a little sweet, a little savory, and entirely satisfying.