As temperatures rise, days become more suitable for serving fresh salads at the summer table. This peach and parmesan summer salad is a simple way to add seasonal flavor to your next lunch or barbecue.
This recipe works perfectly as a side dish because it combines a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, and the dressing ties all the ingredients together. It is also quick to prepare, making it a good choice when you want something fresh but don't want to spend much time in the kitchen. It can be served on a platter during a relaxed summer lunch or alongside your favorite barbecue dishes.
Recipe for Peach and Parmesan Summer Salad
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into half-moons
- 125g sugar snap peas, cut lengthwise
- ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds
- Watercress or arugula leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing
- 1 clove of garlic
- ½ tsp grated ginger
- ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup olive oil
- Salt and ground black pepper
Preparation
In a bowl, mix the peach slices, red onion, and sugar snap peas. Arrange the watercress or arugula leaves on the base of a serving plate. Then, distribute the peach mixture over the leaves. Whisk the garlic, ginger, white balsamic vinegar, and olive oil to make the dressing. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Drizzle the salad with the dressing. Before serving, garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds and grated Parmesan.
(Recipe by Justine Drake for Juicy Delicious)
Several Serving Tips
- Choose ripe but firm peaches: They should be sweet and juicy, yet maintain their shape after slicing.
- Create your own version: If sugar snap peas are unavailable, blanched small green peas can be a suitable substitute.
- Prepare immediately before serving: To achieve maximum freshness, assemble the salad shortly before it is needed. The dressing can be whisked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until use.
- Serve with barbecue: The fresh flavors make this salad a great complement to chicken, fish, or other favorite barbecue dishes.



