Millionaire Peach Salad is the crown jewel of summer salads light, vibrant, and packed with flavor. Hi, I’m Jack recipe developer, food enthusiast, and the heart behind Cooks Foody. At Cooks Foody, I believe in turning simple ingredients into memorable meals, and this salad is no exception. Whether you’re planning a brunch, a picnic, or an elegant dinner, this recipe brings restaurant level finesse right to your home kitchen.
As someone who started cooking out of necessity and turned it into a passion, I’ve spent years perfecting recipes that celebrate seasonal produce. This recipe not only highlights the beauty of ripe summer peaches, but it also layers in creamy cheeses, toasted nuts, and fresh herbs for an irresistible bite every time.
In this post, we’ll cover:
- Why this salad works (and why it’s a must-try)
- Tips for choosing and preparing ingredients
- Step-by-step instructions for assembly
- Flavor variations, expert tips, and FAQs
Let’s dive into why the Millionaire Peach Salad is your new go-to summer delight.
Why This Millionaire Peach Salad Recipe Works
- ✅ Perfectly balances sweet, savory, creamy, and tangy flavors
- 🍑 Celebrates seasonal produce like ripe peaches and fresh basil
- 🧀 Uses accessible, premium ingredients for a gourmet feel
- 🕒 Takes only 15 minutes to prep no cooking required
- 🍽️ Versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or entertaining guests
Choosing the Right Ingredients for the Millionaire Peach Salad
Best Cuts for This Recipe (Just kidding no meat here, but premium ingredients count!)
While this salad is meat-free, choosing high-quality ingredients is still critical. Here’s what to look for:
- Peaches: Opt for ripe, slightly soft peaches with a fragrant aroma. White or yellow both work.
- Greens: Arugula brings peppery contrast, while mixed greens add volume and softness.
- Mozzarella Balls: Use fresh ciliegine (small mozzarella balls) packed in water for the creamiest texture.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds tang and saltiness, complementing the sweetness of the peaches.
- Walnuts: Toasting brings out their nutty richness don’t skip this step!
- Basil: Fresh leaves only. Dried won’t deliver the same aromatic lift.
Buying Tips
- Look for peaches with slight give not rock hard or overly soft.
- Buy cheese from the deli counter or a specialty store for better flavor.
- Choose organic greens if possible they taste fresher and stay crisp longer.
Substitutions
- No peaches? Swap in nectarines or grilled plums.
- Vegan? Use almond-based feta and plant-based mozzarella.
- Nut allergy? Use roasted sunflower seeds instead of walnuts.
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Ingredients & Prep for Millionaire Peach Salad
Produce Prep Essentials
- Peaches: Pit and slice thinly.
- Basil: Wash, dry, and tear into large pieces.
- Greens: Rinse and pat dry. Dry greens cling better to dressings.
No Marinades Needed, But Here’s the Flavor Beam Breakdown:
Millionaire Peach Salad Flavor Beams
- Sweetness: Ripe peaches
- Creaminess: Mozzarella + feta
- Crunch: Toasted walnuts
- Zest: Fresh basil
- Tang: Balsamic glaze
- Salt & Pepper: To balance everything out
Pantry Staples
- Balsamic Glaze: You can use store-bought or make your own reduction.
- Salt & Pepper: Sea salt and cracked black pepper elevate this salad beyond ordinary.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Millionaire Peach Salad
Pre-Cooking Prep for Millionaire Peach Salad
- Wash all produce thoroughly.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 3–5 mins).
- Pit and slice the peaches.
- Drain and pat dry mozzarella balls.
- Crumble the feta.
Cooking Method for Millionaire Peach Salad
No cooking required just assemble and drizzle!
- In a large bowl or platter, spread a base of arugula or mixed greens.
- Arrange peach slices evenly over the greens.
- Add mozzarella balls and crumbled feta.
- Sprinkle toasted walnuts.
- Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter over the top.
Doneness Check for Millionaire Peach Salad
You’ll know it’s perfect when:
- The greens are crisp and not soggy.
- The peaches are juicy but hold their shape.
- The cheese is cool and creamy.
Resting for Millionaire Peach Salad
Let the salad rest for 3–5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to marry. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Millionaire Peach Salad
Avoiding a Bland or Soggy Salad
- Don’t overdress: Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving.
- Use chilled ingredients to keep the salad refreshing.
- Layer the peaches and cheese so each bite has balance.
Tool Recommendations
- Salad spinner (for dry greens)
- Non-stick skillet (for toasting walnuts)
- Sharp chef’s knife (for peach slicing)
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Best eaten fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day (without glaze).
- Reheating: Not recommended. The salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature.
Flavor Variations for Millionaire Peach Salad
Spicy Twist
- Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes for contrast.
Keto/Paleo
- Skip the balsamic glaze and use olive oil + lemon juice instead.
- Sub mozzarella with avocado for added fat and creaminess.
Global Flavors
| Variation | Ingredients Swap |
|---|---|
| Italian | Add prosciutto and sun-dried tomatoes |
| Mediterranean | Include Kalamata olives and cucumbers |
| Asian-Inspired | Swap basil for mint, glaze with rice vinegar + honey |
Serving Suggestions for Millionaire Peach Salad
- Pair With: Grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or crusty sourdough bread
- Drinks:
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc
- Rosé: A dry, chilled Provence-style
- Mocktail: Sparkling water with peach slices and mint
FAQs for Millionaire Peach Salad
Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Yes, but drain canned peaches well. Thaw frozen ones completely and pat dry.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Just skip the pepper and reduce the cheese for younger palates.
Is it safe for pregnant women?
Yes, if all ingredients are fresh and pasteurized.
Conclusion
There you have it your guide to the luxurious, crowd pleasing Millionaire Peach Salad. Fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free, this dish proves that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
Print
Millionaire Peach Salad Recipe Ultimate Summer Salad with Style in 15 minute
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Ripe peaches Pitted and sliced.
- 1 cup Fresh mozzarella balls Halved.
- 1 cup Arugula or mixed greens For a peppery bite.
- 1/2 cup Walnuts Toasted and chopped.
- 1/4 cup Feta cheese Crumbled.
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves Torn.
- 1/4 cup Balsamic glaze For drizzling.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
- Wash the peaches thoroughly under cool running water, then cut them in half and remove the pits. Slice them into wedges.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced peaches, halved mozzarella balls, and arugula or mixed greens.
- Add the toasted walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and torn basil leaves to the bowl.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients without mashing the peaches or mozzarella.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve the salad on individual plates or directly from the bowl.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Salad
- Cuisine: American, Southern
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
Keywords: Fresh Salad, Peach Salad, Summer Salad