Peach and Escarole Salad – A Crisp, Refreshing Italian-Inspired Summer Salad with Sweet Peaches, Tender Escarole, and Citrus Honey Vinaigrette
Peach and Escarole Salad features crisp escarole, sweet ripe peaches, creamy goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and a refreshing citrus honey vinaigrette. The slightly bitter greens create a delicious contrast with the juicy fruit, while crunchy walnuts and creamy cheese add texture and richness. Fresh herbs and a light homemade dressing complete this elegant summer salad. Rich in vitamins, fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, it is both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch, this salad is simple to prepare and beautifully showcases seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 large head escarole, washed, dried, and torn into bite-sized pieces
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- ½ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds (optional)
For the Citrus Honey Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Wash the escarole thoroughly and dry it completely using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel.
- Slice the peaches into thin wedges.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant. Let them cool.
- Thinly slice the red onion and prepare the basil and mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Place the escarole in a large serving bowl or platter.
- Top with peaches, toasted walnuts, red onion, goat cheese, basil, mint, and pomegranate seeds if using.
- Drizzle the citrus honey vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.
Notes
- Choose fresh, crisp escarole with vibrant green leaves.
- Use ripe but firm peaches for easy slicing.
- Toast the walnuts to enhance their flavor.
- Fresh herbs add brightness and aroma.
- Add the dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Goat cheese offers a creamy, tangy finish.
- Chill the ingredients before assembling for extra freshness.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.