This Cucumber, Peach, and Basil Salad is a refreshing and simple dish, perfect for summer days. The combination of crisp cucumbers, sweet peaches, and aromatic basil, all tossed with a light vinaigrette, creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It’s an ideal side dish for picnics, barbecues, or as a healthy, light lunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons toasted almond slices or pumpkin seeds (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and sliced peaches. Add the torn basil leaves to the bowl.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar (or lemon juice), and honey (or sugar) until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cucumber, peach, and basil mixture. Gently toss to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add Cheese and Nuts/Seeds: If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad. Add the toasted almond slices or pumpkin seeds for a bit of crunch.
- Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the salad immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips:
- For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season peaches that are juicy and sweet.
- If you prefer a more tangy dressing, you can increase the amount of white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
- This salad is versatile; feel free to add other ingredients like thinly sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts (approximation per serving, without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 2g
Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 4
This Cucumber, Peach, and Basil Salad is a celebration of summer’s bounty. Light yet flavorful, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing meal. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each flavor to shine, creating a salad that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.
