This Fresh Peach Blueberry Spinach Salad is a colorful mix of juicy peaches, sweet blueberries, and crunchy pecans, all topped with tasty prosciutto. Perfect for any sunny day!
You’ll love how refreshing it is—just right for a light lunch or a fun side dish with dinner. I mean, who can resist that delightful combo of fruits and nuts? Yum! 🍑💙
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is perfect here, but you could also use arugula for a peppery kick or mixed greens for variety. Just remember the softer the green, the more delicate the salad!
Peaches: Ripe peaches bring a sweet juiciness. If they’re not in season, nectarines work well too. Canned peaches can substitute in a pinch, just drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add vibrant color and sweetness. Frozen blueberries can be used, but add them directly from the freezer to keep your salad fresh without making it soggy.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add great crunch and flavor. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds offer a similar crunch and are equally satisfying.
Prosciutto: This savory meat adds a nice touch. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, crispy chickpeas or crumbled feta can bring a delicious flavor in place of prosciutto.
How Do I Toast Pecans Perfectly?
Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunch. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the pecans in a single layer to ensure even toasting.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Watch closely to avoid burning!
- Remove from heat and let them cool before adding to your salad.
This quick toasting process makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture for your salad!
Fresh Peach Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Prosciutto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 4 oz prosciutto, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for toasting pecans)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. That’s it! You’ll spend just a few moments toasting the pecans and making the dressing, and then it’s all about layering those fresh ingredients. The result is a gorgeous, fresh salad ready to impress.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
In a small skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the pecans. Stir them frequently as they cook until they become fragrant and just slightly browned, about 4-5 minutes. When done, remove them from heat and let them cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Assemble the Salad:
Grab a large bowl or a serving platter and lay down the fresh baby spinach leaves as your base. Next, evenly arrange the thinly sliced peaches and fresh blueberries on top of the spinach for a colorful display.
4. Add Pecans and Prosciutto:
Scatter the toasted pecans over the salad, followed by the torn pieces of prosciutto. This adds an earthy crunch and a touch of savory goodness, making the salad irresistible!
5. Dress the Salad:
Just before serving, drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad. You can either toss everything gently to mix the flavors or leave it beautifully arranged for presentation.
6. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy this refreshing and vibrant salad right away! The combination of sweet peaches, juicy blueberries, crunchy pecans, and savory prosciutto will make it a hit at any meal.
This salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures—sweet, crunchy, and savory all together—making it a delightful addition to your table!
FAQ for Fresh Peach Blueberry Spinach Salad
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches and blueberries are delicious, feel free to swap them for other seasonal fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or even apples. Just make sure the fruits you choose are ripe and sweet for the best flavor!
How Do I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the prosciutto and substitute it with crispy chickpeas or avocado for added creaminess. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing for a plant-based sweetener!
What Can I Do with Leftover Salad Dressing?
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s great for drizzling over other salads or even as a marinade for grilled vegetables!
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
To prepare this salad ahead of time, you can wash and chop the spinach, peaches, and blueberries, then keep them separately in the fridge. Toast the pecans and prepare the dressing in advance as well. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve—this keeps the salad fresh and crunchy!
