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

One of my favorite go-to summer salads is this Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese. This delightful dish combines the juiciness of fresh peaches with creamy goat cheese, heart-healthy avocado, and crunchy toasted almonds. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side at gatherings, barbecues, and picnics. The homemade balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy finish that enhances the flavors, making it a refreshing choice for hot days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of peaches, spinach, and goat cheese creates a vibrant flavor profile that is sure to impress.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from spinach and avocado, this salad is not only delicious but also good for you.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a light lunch or serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or cheese to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients without creating a mess.
• Whisk: A whisk makes it easy to blend the dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing peaches and vegetables.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertop while providing a stable surface for chopping.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:

For the Salad

• 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 teaspoons sugar, pure maple syrup or honey to sweeten dressing
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Balsamic vinegar
2. Extra virgin olive oil
3. Minced garlic
4. Dijon mustard
5. Salt and pepper

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add your choice of sugar or maple syrup.

Step 2: Toss the Spinach

In a large bowl:
1. Add the organic spinach.
2. Drizzle with your desired amount of balsamic vinaigrette.
3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Add Toppings

Top the salad with:
1. Sliced peaches
2. Diced avocado
3. Thinly sliced red onion
4. Crumbled goat cheese
5. Sliced toasted almonds

Gently toss again before serving.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Serve this vibrant summer salad right away for maximum freshness! Enjoy as part of a light lunch or at your next gathering!

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

This vibrant Summer Peach Spinach Salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet lunch at home, this refreshing salad can be served in various delightful ways.

As a Main Course

• Serve it as a light main dish for lunch. The combination of spinach, peaches, and avocado makes it filling yet refreshing.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish. The flavors of the salad complement proteins beautifully, enhancing the overall meal experience.

In a Picnic Basket

• Pack it for a picnic! This salad travels well and stays fresh, making it an ideal choice for outdoor dining.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare individual servings in jars. Layer the ingredients to keep them fresh, and enjoy throughout the week as a healthy lunch option.

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

Creating the perfect Summer Peach Spinach Salad is easy when you follow these tips. A few simple adjustments can elevate this dish to new heights.

• Choose ripe peaches: Opt for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Use fresh spinach: Select organic spinach for superior taste and nutrition; washed and dried leaves make for a better texture.
• Toast almonds lightly: Toasting enhances their flavor; just 5-7 minutes in a dry pan will do wonders.
• Make dressing ahead: Prepare the balsamic vinaigrette in advance and store it in the fridge to save time during assembly.
• Add seasonal variations: Consider adding berries or different nuts based on what’s available or in season.
• Serve immediately: For optimal freshness and crunchiness, serve the salad right after tossing all ingredients together.

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

This summer peach spinach salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled on skewers adds protein and flavor that complements the salad well.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette provides additional nutrients while keeping things refreshing.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers offer a classic Italian twist that balances out flavors.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a hearty side that contrasts nicely with the fresh elements of the salad.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles create a low-carb side that pairs beautifully with salads.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs elevates your meal’s flavor profile while being quick to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for flavor without overwhelming the ingredients.
• Skipping the toasted almonds: Not toasting the almonds can result in a lack of crunch. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet to enhance their flavor and texture before adding them to your salad.
• Using unripe peaches: Unripe peaches lack sweetness and juiciness. Choose ripe, fragrant peaches for the best flavor in your salad.
• Chopping ingredients too small: Cutting items like avocado or peaches into tiny pieces can lead to mushiness. Aim for larger chunks to maintain a pleasing texture.
• Not balancing flavors: Forgetting to season properly can lead to a bland dish. Always taste and adjust seasoning, especially with salt and pepper, to enhance all the flavors.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

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

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of spinach and avocado.
• If necessary, freeze components separately (like toasted almonds).

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes; avoid overheating.
• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm; be careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pan for a few minutes, stirring gently until just heated through; do not cook too long.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can easily customize this salad by adding or substituting ingredients. Consider adding grilled chicken for protein or swapping goat cheese with feta for a different flavor profile.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

While balsamic vinaigrette is delicious, lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing also complements the flavors beautifully. Feel free to experiment!

How do I choose ripe peaches for my salad?

Look for peaches that are slightly soft when gently squeezed and have a sweet aroma. Avoid those that are hard or have blemishes.

Is this Summer Peach Spinach Salad gluten-free?

Yes! This salad is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare individual components ahead of time but mix everything together just before serving for the best freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. Its vibrant flavors make it perfect for lunch or as a side dish at gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings! Give it a try—you might discover your new go-to summer dish!