Embrace the sweetness of ripe summer peaches with this irresistible Peach and Goat Cheese Salad. It truly embodies everything a light and refreshing summer dish should be. This salad masterfully blends the creamy, tangy notes of goat cheese with the sweet, juicy burst of fresh peaches, complemented by the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds, all harmoniously brought together by a sweet and tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette.

Beyond its incredible taste, this salad offers a wholesome and balanced meal or side dish. It’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, making it a fantastic choice for a light lunch, a vibrant dinner side, or even a sophisticated starter for your next summer gathering.

If you find yourself with an abundance of fresh peaches, don’t stop here! You might also love exploring my other peach-infused recipes like peach overnight oats for a healthy breakfast, a revitalizing peach banana smoothie, or a comforting gluten-free peach and blueberry crisp for dessert.

Why This Peach & Goat Cheese Salad Will Be Your Summer Favorite

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this peach and goat cheese salad. From its incredible flavor profile to its sheer simplicity, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make all season long.

• Unbeatably Quick & Easy – Just like my popular cucumber radish salad, this recipe is a breeze to prepare. It comes together in a mere 15 minutes, requiring absolutely no cooking! It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or spontaneous summer get-togethers.
• Effortlessly Customizable – This salad is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your exact preferences. Whether you want to swap cheeses, add different nuts, or incorporate more seasonal fruits and vegetables, the possibilities are endless. It’s a fantastic base for creativity in the kitchen.
• The Magic of Fresh Basil – The addition of fresh basil isn’t just a garnish; it’s a game-changer. Its sweet, peppery aroma and flavor elevate the entire salad, perfectly complementing the sweetness of peaches and the tang of goat cheese, taking it to an entirely new level of deliciousness.
• Naturally Dietary Friendly – This salad is naturally gluten-free and grain-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs. It can also be easily adapted to be dairy-free by simply omitting the goat cheese or using a plant-based alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.
• Nutrient-Packed Goodness – Beyond its fantastic taste, this salad is loaded with essential nutrients. Peaches offer vitamins A and C, spinach and arugula provide iron and folate, while goat cheese adds protein and calcium. Almonds contribute healthy fats and fiber, making this a truly wholesome meal.

Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Peach Salad

Creating an exceptional salad starts with selecting the best ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the components that make this peach and goat cheese salad truly shine, along with some tips for choosing them.

• Spinach and Arugula Mix – These greens form the flavorful foundation of our salad. Their combination offers a delightful balance: spinach brings a mild, earthy taste and tender texture, while arugula adds a peppery kick that perfectly complements the sweet peaches. Feel free to use any mixed greens you prefer, or simply spinach or arugula if you have a favorite. Ensure they are fresh and crisp.
• Fresh Peaches (or Nectarines) – The star of the show! Choose ripe but firm peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid overly soft or bruised peaches, as they can become mushy in the salad. Nectarines are an excellent substitute if peaches aren’t available, offering a similar sweet and juicy profile without the fuzzy skin. Do not use frozen peaches, as their texture will not be suitable for this fresh salad.
• Creamy Goat Cheese – Goat cheese adds a wonderfully tangy and creamy element that beautifully contrasts with the peaches. Opt for a good quality, fresh goat cheese log that you can easily crumble. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, see our “Add-ins & Variations” section for alternative suggestions.
• Sweet Honey – A touch of honey in the dressing balances the tang of balsamic vinegar and mustard, enhancing the natural sweetness of the peaches. If you need this recipe to be vegan, pure maple syrup is an excellent 1:1 substitute that provides a similar depth of flavor.
• High-Quality Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – For the balsamic vinaigrette, the quality of your olive oil makes a significant difference. I highly recommend using a good quality extra-virgin olive oil, both for its superior flavor profile and its well-documented health benefits. A robust olive oil will provide a rich, fruity base for your dressing.
• Fresh Basil Leaves – As mentioned, fresh basil is crucial. Its bright, anise-like flavor is a perfect pairing for peaches and rounds out the salad beautifully. Always use fresh basil over dried for the best results in salads.
• Red Onion – Thinly sliced red onion provides a mild sharpness and a slight crunch, cutting through the richness of the cheese and sweetness of the fruit. Its vibrant color also adds to the visual appeal.
• Sliced Almonds – Toasted almonds introduce a delightful nutty flavor and essential crunch, adding textural complexity to each bite.

A complete list of ingredients and their precise amounts can be found in the detailed recipe card below. These specific notes are designed to assist you in selecting the finest ingredients for an outstanding salad.

Exciting Add-ins & Flavor Variations

One of the best aspects of this peach and goat cheese salad is its adaptability. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these delicious additions and variations to make it uniquely yours:

Different Nuts. While toasted almonds are fantastic, feel free to swap them for other toasted nuts like crunchy pecans or earthy walnuts. Toasting them briefly in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad is key; this step truly enhances their flavor and provides that satisfying crunch.

Alternative Cheeses. If goat cheese isn’t quite your preference, there are several delicious alternatives. Try fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) for a milder, creamier touch, or opt for crumbled feta cheese for a saltier, tangier profile. For a dairy-free version, you can simply omit the cheese entirely, or explore plant-based crumbled cheese alternatives.

Extra Veggies. Boost the nutritional content and add more texture by incorporating additional vegetables. Sliced cucumbers offer a refreshing crispness, while thinly sliced cooked beets add an earthy sweetness and a beautiful pop of color. Delicate baby spinach or peppery watercress can also be mixed into the greens for added depth.

More Fruit Power. Enhance the fruity goodness by adding more seasonal fruits. Fresh blueberries pair wonderfully with peaches and goat cheese, offering a burst of tart-sweetness. Sliced or diced avocado, surprisingly a fruit, adds a rich, creamy texture and healthy fats that complement the other ingredients beautifully.

Make it a Heartier Meal with Grains. To transform this delightful side salad into a more substantial main course, simply toss in 1 cup of cooked quinoa. Quinoa adds plant-based protein and fiber, making the salad more filling and satisfying. You might also like to try my superfood salad, which already features quinoa for a hearty and healthy option.

Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling Your Peach & Goat Cheese Salad

Creating this stunning salad is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for any occasion. Follow these simple steps for a perfect presentation and taste.

Step 1: Toast the Almonds. Begin by lightly toasting your sliced almonds. Heat a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced almonds and stir them frequently to prevent burning. They should turn a light golden brown and become fragrant in just 2-3 minutes. This quick step is essential for boosting their nutty flavor and adding a lovely crunch to your salad. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Vinaigrette. Next, it’s time to whip up the incredibly simple balsamic vinaigrette. Combine all the dressing ingredients (extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and ground pepper) in a mason jar or any other container with a tight-fitting lid. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and emulsified. Alternatively, you can whisk them together in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad. To assemble, start by arranging your mixed greens (spinach and arugula) on a large plate or in a shallow bowl. Drizzle approximately half of the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the greens and gently toss to ensure they are lightly coated. This pre-dressing step ensures every leaf gets a touch of flavor. Then, artfully arrange the remaining salad ingredients – the vibrant peach slices, crumbled goat cheese, fresh basil, thinly sliced red onion, and your toasted almonds – on top of the dressed greens. Finish with a drizzle of the remaining dressing to taste before serving immediately. Enjoy the beautiful medley of flavors and textures!

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Peach Salad

This peach and goat cheese salad is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. It’s light enough to be a refreshing appetizer, yet substantial enough to serve as a side dish or even a light main course, especially if you add some extra protein.

To make this salad part of a nutritious and filling meal, consider pairing it with your favorite lean protein. The sweetness of the peaches and the tang of the goat cheese complement a variety of meats and fish beautifully. Excellent options include:

• Perfectly cooked air fryer frozen salmon, offering a flaky, omega-3 rich companion.
• Flavorful grilled cilantro lime chicken, bringing zesty, smoky notes.
• Juicy air fryer turkey burgers for a healthier burger night.
• Slow-cooked delights like slow cooker pulled pork sandwiches, where the salad provides a fresh contrast to the rich meat.

For a delightful brunch spread, this peach salad adds a touch of elegance and freshness. Serve it alongside a hearty sweet potato crust quiche or a light and fluffy vegetable frittata. The combination of sweet and savory elements will be a crowd-pleaser.

Explore More Delicious & Healthy Salad Recipes!

If you’ve enjoyed the fresh and vibrant flavors of this peach and goat cheese salad, you’ll love exploring other delicious salad recipes from Clean Plate Mama. Each recipe is crafted to be wholesome, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

If you make this recipe, please let me know what you think! I would so appreciate you leaving a star rating and/or comment below. And don’t forget to share a photo on Instagram or Facebook and mention @CleanPlateMama!

Eat Clean. Be Well!
-Sara