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This vibrant watermelon peach salad is my go to recipe every summer when I want something easy fresh and crowd pleasing. Sweet juicy watermelon and peaches tossed with salty feta roasted pistachios and herbs taste like sunshine—and you can assemble it in minutes for any last minute barbecue or picnic.
I whipped this up for a family picnic last Fourth of July and the bowl was wiped clean before I even sat down—now my friends ask for it at every get together.
Ingredients
- Cubed watermelon: choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow spot for best flavor
- Ripe peaches: cut into thin wedges look for ones that have a slight give and a peachy aroma
- Fresh basil leaves: these add bright aromatic flavor and pair perfectly with fruit
- Fresh feta cheese crumbled: go for block feta in brine for a creamier texture
- Roasted pistachios chopped: for crunch and a bit of salty richness
- Extra virgin olive oil: use a peppery and buttery one for your vinaigrette
- Champagne vinegar: gives a gentle tang without overpowering the fruit
- Honey: brings out the fruit’s natural sweetness
- Fig preserves (optional): add lovely depth and a bit of luxury
- Chopped fresh chives: for subtle oniony zing
- Salt and black pepper: always use freshly cracked for the best punch
- Chili flakes: for a hint of heat and color
Instructions
- Prep the Fruit:
- Cut watermelon into bite sized cubes and peaches into thin wedges. Arrange them together in a broad salad bowl so the colors pop and juices can mingle.
- Add Cheese Herbs and Nuts:
- Crumble the feta over the fruit as evenly as you can. Sprinkle with torn basil leaves and the chopped roasted pistachios. This layering ensures every scoop catches a little of everything.
- Mix the Vinaigrette:
- Into a small glass jar pour the olive oil champagne vinegar and honey. Add the fig preserves if you are using them along with the chopped chives. Season generously with salt black pepper and chili flakes. Shake the jar well until the dressing looks silky and emulsified. Taste and tweak to your liking.
- Dress and Toss:
- Drizzle the vinaigrette evenly over the arranged salad. Toss everything gently with clean hands or two big spoons just enough so the flavors cling but the fruit does not break apart.
- Serve Immediately:
- Transfer to a serving platter or pass the bowl straight to the table. This salad is best enjoyed right away while it is cool and crisp.
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I am always amazed how the basil ties everything together in this salad. My niece once picked out all the basil from her serving only to go back for more a few minutes later—now she always insists on extra.
Storage Tips
If you need to prepare this salad ahead cut and store the watermelon peaches and feta separately in airtight containers. Wait to toss with pistachios and herbs until ready to serve to preserve the crunch and vibrant color. Leftovers will keep for a day in the fridge but the fruit may soften.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap nectarines or plums for peaches if you find great ones at the market. Goat cheese can stand in for feta for a tangier creamier bite. In a pinch use white wine vinegar instead of champagne vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a hero side dish at cookouts and picnics or as a vivid starter with grilled chicken or shrimp. Sometimes I pile a generous scoop on top of mixed greens and add a handful of toasted sourdough for a light lunch.
A Bit of Summer Salad History
Fresh fruit and cheese salads have roots all over the Mediterranean where cooks make the most of sun ripened produce. The classic pairing of watermelon and feta is especially popular in Greece but blending in peaches nuts and fresh herbs brings a distinctly modern colorful twist.
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This watermelon peach salad is a taste of summer in every bite. Make it for your next gathering and watch it disappear fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute another cheese for feta?
Yes, goat cheese or mozzarella can work as a creamy alternative to feta's tang.
- → What fruit variations work well?
Try nectarines or plums in place of peaches for a different seasonal twist.
- → How far in advance can I prepare it?
Prepare ingredients ahead, but combine and dress just before serving to keep freshness.
- → Is the vinaigrette essential?
The vinaigrette ties flavors together, but a squeeze of lemon and olive oil also works.
- → Can I make this nut-free?
Omit pistachios or replace with toasted seeds for a crunchy topping without nuts.