Millionaire Peach Salad Bowl

Millionaire Peach Salad is my go to dish when the summer heat is in full swing and the peaches at the market are at their juiciest. It is one of those salads that always impresses guests but takes almost no time to put together. Think sweet peaches and creamy cheese all lifted by the aroma of basil and balsamic glaze.

The first time I made this for friends at a picnic it disappeared before any other dish. Now it is my favourite excuse to stock up on the best peaches of the season.

Ingredients

• Ripe peaches: sliced for juicy sweetness make sure they give slightly when pressed and smell fragrant
• Fresh mozzarella balls: halved for a creamy salty bite choose mozzarella in brine for extra freshness
• Arugula or mixed greens: for a peppery earthiness pick leaves that are perky and crisp
• Walnuts: toasted and roughly chopped for deep crunch toast just until lightly golden
• Feta cheese: crumbled for a tangy sharp accent aim for a good quality block style feta
• Fresh basil leaves: torn instead of cut for maximum aroma and flavor use bright green leaves
• Balsamic glaze: drizzled for a burst of sweet tart richness look for a syrupy texture
• Salt and pepper: adjust to taste use flaky sea salt if possible

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Peaches:

Wash the peaches carefully under cool running water. Cut each in half following the groove then gently twist and remove the pit. Place the halves flat side down and cut into even wedges so every bite is full of flavor and easy to eat.

Build the Base:

In a large wide salad bowl add the sliced peaches mozzarella halves and your chosen greens. Carefully distribute so the heavier ingredients do not squash the tender leaves.

Add Toppings:

Scatter the toasted chopped walnuts over the bowl. Sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly and tear the basil leaves over the top to release their aromatic oils.

Dress and Season:

Take your balsamic glaze and drizzle generously in thin ribbons across the entire salad so each layer gets a touch of the tangy sweetness. Season the salad with a liberal pinch of salt and several cracks of black pepper to balance the flavors.

Toss Gently:

Using clean hands or salad servers very lightly toss the salad lifting from the bottom so the peaches and cheese stay intact but everything gets mixed.

Chill Optional:

If you have time place the salad uncovered in the refrigerator for ten to fifteen minutes. This short rest lets all the flavors meld together for a more unified taste.

Serve:

Plate the salad individually for a more formal presentation or serve straight from the beautiful bowl for a casual family style feel.

Save This

My favorite moment making this was with my cousin at a family cookout where we snuck extra mozzarella balls into our portions while laughing over summer memories. Every time I tear fresh basil I am reminded of my grandmother's herb garden and afternoons spent picking leaves under the sun.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The greens are best enjoyed within a day to keep their crispness. Keep balsamic glaze and nuts on the side until serving to prevent them from going soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try nectarines or plums instead of peaches if that is what you have or you want a twist. Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds also toasted for added crunch. If you prefer a different cheese use goat cheese or burrata in place of feta or mozzarella for a creamier result.

Serving Suggestions

This salad goes beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a main meal. You can also pair it with crusty bread for a simple lunch. For a more elegant starter serve small portions with sparkling white wine.

Cultural and Historical Context

The combination of peaches and cheese dates back to Mediterranean traditions where fresh fruit and young cheeses are often served as appetizers. Balsamic glaze and walnuts add an Old World touch that celebrates the abundance of summer produce.

Common Queries

→ What type of peaches work best for this salad?

Ripe, slightly firm peaches are ideal—they hold their shape after slicing and add juicy sweetness without becoming mushy.

→ Can I substitute another cheese for mozzarella?

Yes, burrata or fresh goat cheese offers similar creaminess and can be used in place of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

→ Is there an alternative to walnuts?

Pecans, almonds, or pistachios can substitute for walnuts, all adding crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.

→ How do I keep the peaches from browning?

Toss peach slices in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the bowl to help preserve their color and freshness.

→ Can this dish be made ahead?

It's best assembled just before serving for optimal texture, but you can prep all ingredients and chill them separately ahead of time.