Easy Summer Peach Salad with Avocado & Mozzarella

Refresh your taste buds with this vibrant Summer Peach Salad with Avocado & Mozzarella—bright, creamy, and perfect for warm days! This salad perfectly captures the essence of summer with juicy peaches, buttery avocado, and soft mozzarella, all combined in a way that’s light, flavorful, and irresistibly fresh. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a stunning side dish to impress guests, this recipe offers an effortlessly delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce at its best.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and vibrant flavors: Juicy peaches and creamy mozzarella create a delightful blend that awakens your palate.
• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this salad in under 15 minutes.
• Perfect for warm weather: The light, refreshing ingredients make it ideal for hot summer days or picnics.
• Versatile and adaptable: It complements a variety of meals, from grilled meats to simple sandwiches.
• Nutritious and satisfying: Packed with vitamins, healthy fats, and protein, it’s a salad that fuels you well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need for this Summer Peach Salad with Avocado & Mozzarella are a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role in balancing sweetness, creaminess, and crunch, turning simple components into a harmonious, colorful dish.

• Ripe peaches: Choose firm but juicy peaches to ensure sweetness and texture.
• Fresh avocado: Adds creamy richness and healthy fats that elevate every bite.
• Bocconcini or fresh mozzarella balls: Soft, mild cheese that provides a luscious, milky component.
• Fresh basil leaves: Offers a fragrant, herbal note that brightens the dish.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Enhances flavor depth and brings the salad together with a silky finish.
• Balsamic glaze or vinegar: Adds a subtle tangy sweetness that complements the peaches beautifully.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Optional toasted nuts: For additional crunch and a nutty contrast, such as walnuts or pecans.

Variations for Summer Peach Salad with Avocado & Mozzarella

This Summer Peach Salad with Avocado & Mozzarella is wonderfully flexible, letting you customize it according to what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Want to add a twist? Here are some easy ideas to get creative.

• Swap the cheese: Try fresh goat cheese or feta for a tangier flavor profile.
• Add greens: Incorporate arugula, spinach, or mixed baby greens for extra vibrancy and nutrition.
• Include protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a more substantial meal.
• Change up the nuts: Use almonds, pine nuts, or pistachios for varied textures and flavors.
• Use a different dressing: Substitute lemon juice or honey mustard for balsamic if desired.

How to Make Summer Peach Salad with Avocado & Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

Wash your peaches thoroughly and slice them into thin wedges or bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference. This allows the natural sweetness and juiciness to shine through while making the salad easy to eat.

Step 2: Cut the Avocado

Carefully slice the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Cut into cubes or thin slices so it blends nicely with the peaches and mozzarella.

Step 3: Drain the Mozzarella

If using bocconcini or fresh mozzarella balls, drain any excess liquid and gently tear or slice the cheese into pieces similar in size to the peach and avocado.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl or platter, combine the sliced peaches, avocado, and mozzarella. Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the top for a burst of herbal fragrance and vibrant color.

Step 5: Dress and Season

Drizzle extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad, followed by a splash of balsamic glaze or vinegar. Finish with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss gently to combine without bruising the delicate ingredients.

Pro Tips for Making Summer Peach Salad with Avocado & Mozzarella

• Choose ripe but firm peaches: To avoid mushy salad, pick peaches that yield slightly to pressure but keep their shape.
• Protect avocado from browning: Add avocado last and lightly toss with lemon juice if desired to prevent discoloration.
• Use fresh mozzarella: The creamier texture and mild flavor makes a huge difference compared to shredded cheeses.
• Adjust seasoning just before serving: Salt can draw moisture out—season gently until ready to eat.
• Serve immediately: This salad is best fresh to enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors.

How to Serve Summer Peach Salad with Avocado & Mozzarella

Garnishes

Top the salad with extra basil leaves, a sprinkle of toasted nuts, or grated lemon zest to add extra flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, fish, or steak and works wonderfully alongside crusty bread or light pasta for a complete summer meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual glass bowls or on colorful plates for an elegant touch. Layer ingredients in a mason jar for an on-the-go picnic or arrange on a charcuterie board alongside cured meats and cheeses for a party-ready option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind the avocado may brown slightly but can still be enjoyed with a fresh squeeze of lemon.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of peaches, avocado, and mozzarella will degrade upon thawing.

Reheating

There is no reheating required or recommended for this salad. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Fresh peaches offer the best texture and flavor, but if fresh isn’t available, canned peaches (drained well) can be used in a pinch, though the salad will be less vibrant and fresh-tasting.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

The traditional recipe includes fresh mozzarella, which is dairy. You can swap the cheese with vegan mozzarella or omit it entirely to keep the salad vegan-friendly.

How can I make the salad last longer when preparing ahead?

Keep the components separate and only dress the salad right before serving to preserve freshness and texture.

What’s the best balsamic glaze to use?

Look for a high-quality balsamic glaze that is slightly sweet and tangy to complement the peaches without overpowering them.

Can I add grains or legumes to make this a more filling salad?

Absolutely! Adding cooked quinoa, farro, or chickpeas can boost the protein and fiber content, turning it into a heartier meal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a salad that screams summer with every bite, the Summer Peach Salad with Avocado & Mozzarella is a must-try. It’s the perfect marriage of sweet, creamy, and fresh, making it an instant favorite for lunch, dinner, or even entertaining. Give this recipe a go, and watch how this simple yet stunning salad quickly becomes your go-to warm-weather dish!

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