Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad

Simple to throw together, yet so fresh and flavorful, the Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad is like summer on a plate! This vibrant salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a refreshing dinner. The combination of juicy peaches and ripe tomatoes creates a delightful medley of flavors that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair well with any main dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the burst of flavors from seasonal produce, making every bite a celebration of summer.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this beautiful salad ready to serve in no time.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients based on availability or personal preference to make it your own.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with veggies and lean protein options, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Stunning Presentation: The colorful layers of this salad make it an eye-catching dish for any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

This recipe requires minimal tools but ensures you have everything you need for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Glass jar (for vinaigrette)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Food processor

Importance of Each Tool

• Large salad bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Glass jar: Perfect for shaking up the vinaigrette to combine all flavors easily.

Ingredients

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fig preserves (or 2 teaspoons honey)
• 1 small shallot, grated
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• Chili flakes

For the Salad

• 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded (choose a large head)
• 1 head radicchio, shredded
• 6 ounces spicy turkey slices, chopped
• 3 ounces turkey pepperoni, chopped
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped
• 2 zucchini, thinly sliced
• 2-3 peaches, sliced into wedges
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup mini mozzarella cheese balls
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Bread Crumbs

• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 4 slices sourdough bread (torn)
• 2 ounces turkey slices

How to Make Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad

Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette

To create the vinaigrette:
1. Combine all vinaigrette ingredients in a glass jar.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and chili flakes as desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Mix

To assemble the salad:
1. In a large salad bowl, mix all salad ingredients thoroughly.
2. When ready to serve, pour over the prepared vinaigrette and toss well to coat everything evenly.
3. Top with fresh herbs for added flavor.

Step 3: Create the Bread Crumbs

For crunchy toppings:
1. Preheat your oven to 400° F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange buttered torn bread and turkey slices on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10–15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
5. Add baked items to a food processor; season with salt.
6. Pulse into fine crumbs or crumble by hand if preferred.

Enjoy your delicious Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad as a refreshing side dish or light meal!

How to Serve Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad

Serving Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad is all about enhancing its fresh flavors and vibrant colors. This salad can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad is perfect on its own as a light lunch or dinner option. The combination of tomatoes, peaches, and turkey slices makes it satisfying without being heavy.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for added protein. The smoky flavor from the grill complements the sweetness of the peaches beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chopped salad over a bed of mixed greens for extra crunch and nutrients. This adds texture and elevates the presentation.

As a Side for BBQ

• This refreshing salad works wonderfully as a side dish at barbecues. It contrasts nicely with richer meats and grilled vegetables, providing a cooling effect.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve portions of the salad inside romaine lettuce leaves. This creates a crunchy, handheld version that’s great for gatherings.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving enhances the flavors even more. The sweetness pairs well with the savory elements of the salad.

How to Perfect Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad

To achieve the best version of your Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad, consider these tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose ripe tomatoes and juicy peaches to maximize flavor. Fresh herbs also enhance the overall taste profile.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the vinaigrette to balance sweetness and acidity by experimenting with lemon juice or fig preserves to find your perfect mix.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting your salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate nuts or seeds like toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for extra texture and nutrition without overpowering other flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad

This vibrant salad pairs well with several delicious side dishes that complement its fresh taste. Here are some ideal accompaniments:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy toasted bread infused with garlic makes an excellent side that everyone loves, adding warmth to your meal.
2. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of the salad while being easy to prepare alongside it.
3. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds color and smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the salad.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf flavored with herbs offers a nutritious side that complements both texture and flavor profiles of the main dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots can add crunchiness and brightness, creating an exciting flavor contrast with your salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or turkey make an intriguing addition that pairs nicely with the freshness of your chopped salad.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn cooked simply or grilled enhances summer vibes and provides sweetness that echoes the peach’s taste in your salad.
8. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits rounds out your meal while refreshing guests’ palates between bites of savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old produce can ruin your salad’s flavor. Always choose the freshest tomatoes, peaches, and greens for the best taste.
• Boldly ignore seasoning: Failing to season your vinaigrette properly can lead to blandness. Adjust salt, pepper, and chili flakes to enhance flavors in your dressing.
• Boldly overmixing: Tossing the salad too vigorously can bruise delicate ingredients like peaches and herbs. Gently mix to preserve texture and presentation.
• Boldly underestimating prep time: Not setting aside enough time for chopping can result in a rushed meal. Plan ahead for easy assembly by prepping ingredients in advance.
• Boldly neglecting balance: Skipping on key ingredients like olives or turkey can make your salad one-dimensional. Ensure a nice mix of flavors and textures for the best experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in vegetables and fruits.

Reheating Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the salad gently without overcooking.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals on medium power; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad.

What can I substitute for turkey slices?

You can replace turkey slices with chicken or beef slices if desired. This will still keep the salad hearty and flavorful.

How do I make my own vinaigrette?

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, fig preserves (or honey), grated shallot, garlic, and seasonings. Shake well before using.

Can I use other fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seasonal fruits like nectarines or plums for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

How do I customize my Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad?

Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or include different cheese options such as goat cheese for varied flavor profiles.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad is vibrant and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Customize it with seasonal fruits or proteins of your choice. This delightful dish is sure to impress at your next gathering!

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Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings 1x

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Description

The Summer Chopped Tomato Peach Salad is a refreshing celebration of summer flavors, combining juicy peaches and ripe tomatoes in a vibrant medley that’s perfect for any gathering. This quick and easy salad is packed with freshness and can be customized to suit your taste—whether served as a standalone dish, paired with grilled chicken, or enjoyed as a colorful side at barbecues. With its stunning presentation and robust flavor profile, this salad is sure to impress your guests while keeping things light and healthy. Enjoy every bite of this delightful seasonal dish!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 head romaine lettuce
• 1 head radicchio
• 6 ounces spicy turkey slices
• 2–3 peaches
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fig preserves or 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 small shallot, grated
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• Chili flakes
• 2 zucchini, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 4 slices sourdough bread, torn
• 2 ounces turkey slices

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Instructions

1. To make the vinaigrette, combine olive oil, lemon juice, fig preserves, grated shallot, garlic, chopped basil, thyme, salt, pepper, and chili flakes in a glass jar. Shake well to mix.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded romaine lettuce, radicchio, turkey slices, cherry tomatoes, olives, zucchini slices, peaches, and fresh basil leaves. Toss gently.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss until evenly coated. Top with additional herbs if desired.
4. For the crunchy topping: Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange torn sourdough bread and turkey slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10–15 minutes until golden brown. Pulse in a food processor for breadcrumbs or crumble by hand.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking required except for bread topping
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 40mg