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 vibrant salad combines juicy peaches, creamy goat cheese, heart-healthy avocado, and crunchy toasted almonds, making it a delightful dish for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch at home. The homemade balsamic vinaigrette adds a perfect touch of flavor that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the seasonal flavors of ripe peaches and crisp spinach.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is ideal for busy days.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad supports your wellness goals.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish; serve it at gatherings or as an everyday meal.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Salad tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and preparing dressings without spills.
• Whisk: Perfect for emulsifying the dressing to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for fruits and vegetables, enhancing presentation.
• Salad tongs: Help in gently tossing the salad without bruising delicate greens.

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

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

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. If desired, add a sweetener like sugar or honey to balance flavors.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add the organic spinach.
2. Drizzle with your desired amount of balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
3. Top the salad with peach slices, diced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, goat cheese crumbles, and toasted almonds.
4. Toss very gently again to mix without crushing the ingredients.
5. Serve immediately for the best freshness.

This refreshing Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese serves four people and can be made in just 15 minutes! Enjoy it as your go-to summer meal!

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

This vibrant Summer Peach Spinach Salad is perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your salad experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair it with whole grain bread or pita for a filling meal.
• Serve alongside a refreshing glass of iced herbal tea for a complete lunch.

As a Side Dish

• Complement grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced dinner.
• This salad also works well as a side for barbecued vegetables.

For a Picnic

• Pack the salad in a mason jar to keep it fresh and crisp.
• Bring along some extra dressing in a small container for easy serving.

At Potlucks

• Present the salad in an attractive bowl to impress guests.
• Offer additional toppings like crumbled feta or sunflower seeds for variety.

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

To enhance your Summer Peach Spinach Salad, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose ripe peaches: Ripe peaches will add sweetness and juiciness to the salad.
• Opt for fresh spinach: Fresh organic spinach offers better flavor and texture.
• Toast almonds lightly: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds crunch; do not overdo it!
• Adjust the dressing: Feel free to tweak the balsamic vinaigrette by adding herbs like basil or oregano for added zest.
• Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after assembling.
• Add protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Summer Peach Spinach Salad can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers complement the salad’s fresh flavors perfectly.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa dish with herbs adds texture and nutrition.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and depth to your meal.
4. Chickpea Hummus – Creamy hummus served with vegetable sticks makes for a healthy snack alongside the salad.
5. Caprese Salad – The classic tomato and mozzarella dish enhances the summer vibe of your meal.
6. Vegetable Soup – A light, brothy soup can provide warmth and balance to the crispness of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Overripe Peaches: Always choose firm, ripe peaches. Overripe peaches can make the salad mushy and less enjoyable.
• Skipping the Dressing: Don’t underestimate the power of dressing. A good vinaigrette enhances flavors; always prepare it fresh.
• Overcrowding the Bowl: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven distribution. Toss in batches for better mixing.
• Not Toasting the Almonds: Toasted almonds add crunch and flavor. Always toast them lightly before adding to your salad.
• Neglecting Seasoning: A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper elevates the taste. Don’t forget to season your salad before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

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

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it may affect the texture of the spinach and avocado.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes. Be cautious not to wilt the spinach too much.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warmed through. Check frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring often to prevent cooking the greens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese special?

This salad combines fresh peaches, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy almonds, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures perfect for summer.

Can I substitute goat cheese in this salad?

Yes! You can easily substitute goat cheese with feta or leave it out entirely for a lighter option while still enjoying great flavor.

How do I keep my spinach fresh for this salad?

To keep spinach fresh, store it in a breathable bag in the refrigerator crisper drawer and wash just before use to avoid sogginess.

What other toppings can I add to this Summer Peach Spinach Salad?

Feel free to customize with additional toppings like grilled chicken, berries, or different nuts such as walnuts or pecans.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad can be prepped ahead of time by storing components separately until ready to serve. Just keep dressing separate until serving.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Peach Spinach Salad with Avocado, Toasted Almonds + Goat Cheese is not only vibrant but also bursting with flavor. It’s versatile enough for lunch or as a side dish at gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!