Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Toast the Walnuts
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped walnuts and toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden and fragrant.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Peaches
- Wash and slice the peaches into thin wedges.
- Ensure they are ripe but firm for best texture in the salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
- On a large salad platter or bowl, lay down a bed of arugula or mixed greens.
- Scatter the fresh basil leaves over the greens.
Step 4: Add Fruit & Cheese
- Arrange the sliced peaches evenly on top of the greens.
- Distribute the mozzarella balls and crumbled feta cheese across the salad.
Step 5: Top with Walnuts
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts generously over the top for crunch and richness.
Step 6: Season and Finish
- Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze.
- Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Serve immediately or chill slightly before serving.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep ingredients separate and assemble just before serving.
Store leftover peaches and greens separately in airtight containers for up to 1 day. Do Not Reheat:
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. 🥄 Variations Grilled Peach Version: Lightly grill peach slices for smoky sweetness. Vegan Version: Omit cheese or use plant-based feta and mozzarella. Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken breast or chickpeas for a heartier meal. Berry Bonus: Add sliced strawberries or blueberries for extra color and sweetness. No Nuts: Use toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if allergic to walnuts. Citrus Twist: Add a splash of lemon or orange zest to the glaze. Fresh Mint: Replace or combine basil with mint for a cooling flavor. Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a bold contrast. Crouton Crunch: Add garlic croutons for extra crunch. Goat Cheese Swap: Replace feta with creamy goat cheese for a tangy upgrade. ❓ 10 FAQs Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Fresh peaches are best, but canned (drained) can work in a pinch. Avoid frozen, as they release too much liquid. What greens work best besides arugula?
Baby spinach, romaine, or spring mix are all great alternatives. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients ahead but assemble just before serving for best texture. What kind of balsamic glaze should I use?
Store-bought is fine, or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar until syrupy. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes — all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Can I substitute the mozzarella balls?
Yes! Use cubed fresh mozzarella or even burrata for a richer experience. Are the walnuts necessary?
Not essential, but they add a lovely crunch. Try pecans or almonds as substitutes. Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?
Absolutely — nectarines are a fantastic substitute. Can I pack this salad for lunch?
Yes, but keep ingredients separate and assemble just before eating. How do I keep peaches from browning?
Toss them in a little lemon juice if preparing in advance. 🏁 Conclusion This Millionaire Peach Salad is a luxurious yet simple dish that captures everything you love about summer. With juicy peaches, crisp greens, creamy cheese, and crunchy walnuts all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Best of all, it’s pork-free, alcohol-free, and totally flexible for dietary needs. Whether you’re hosting brunch, packing a light lunch, or just treating yourself, this salad turns seasonal fruit into a million-dollar experience. 💎
Best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep ingredients separate and assemble just before serving.
Store leftover peaches and greens separately in airtight containers for up to 1 day. Do Not Reheat:
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. 🥄 Variations Grilled Peach Version: Lightly grill peach slices for smoky sweetness. Vegan Version: Omit cheese or use plant-based feta and mozzarella. Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken breast or chickpeas for a heartier meal. Berry Bonus: Add sliced strawberries or blueberries for extra color and sweetness. No Nuts: Use toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if allergic to walnuts. Citrus Twist: Add a splash of lemon or orange zest to the glaze. Fresh Mint: Replace or combine basil with mint for a cooling flavor. Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a bold contrast. Crouton Crunch: Add garlic croutons for extra crunch. Goat Cheese Swap: Replace feta with creamy goat cheese for a tangy upgrade. ❓ 10 FAQs Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Fresh peaches are best, but canned (drained) can work in a pinch. Avoid frozen, as they release too much liquid. What greens work best besides arugula?
Baby spinach, romaine, or spring mix are all great alternatives. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients ahead but assemble just before serving for best texture. What kind of balsamic glaze should I use?
Store-bought is fine, or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar until syrupy. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes — all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Can I substitute the mozzarella balls?
Yes! Use cubed fresh mozzarella or even burrata for a richer experience. Are the walnuts necessary?
Not essential, but they add a lovely crunch. Try pecans or almonds as substitutes. Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?
Absolutely — nectarines are a fantastic substitute. Can I pack this salad for lunch?
Yes, but keep ingredients separate and assemble just before eating. How do I keep peaches from browning?
Toss them in a little lemon juice if preparing in advance. 🏁 Conclusion This Millionaire Peach Salad is a luxurious yet simple dish that captures everything you love about summer. With juicy peaches, crisp greens, creamy cheese, and crunchy walnuts all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Best of all, it’s pork-free, alcohol-free, and totally flexible for dietary needs. Whether you’re hosting brunch, packing a light lunch, or just treating yourself, this salad turns seasonal fruit into a million-dollar experience. 💎