This Easy Millionaire Peach Salad is a refreshing treat that blends sweet peaches, creamy yogurt, and crunchy nuts. It’s bright, colorful, and perfect for summer picnics!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star here! If they aren’t in season, you can use canned peaches (in juice, not syrup) or even nectarines for a similar flavor. Just be sure to drain them well.
Fresh Raspberries: They add a nice tartness. If you can’t find fresh ones, try using frozen raspberries, but thaw them beforehand. Strawberries or blueberries also work well as a substitute.
Cottage Cheese: This ingredient gives the salad its creamy texture. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it for Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a richer taste.
Nuts: I love using pecans for their buttery flavor, but walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds can be great choices! If nut allergies are a concern, feel free to skip them altogether.
Caramel or Honey: These add sweetness. If you’re aiming for a lower sugar option, agave nectar or maple syrup can be good alternatives. You can also reduce the amount if you prefer a less sweet salad.
How Do I Make Sure My Peaches Are Perfectly Ripe?
Picking the right peaches is important for this salad’s flavor. They should be slightly soft to the touch, not mushy. Here’s how to choose and prepare them:
- Look for peaches that have a vibrant color and a fragrant aroma.
- Gently press on the peach; it should yield a bit but not feel squishy.
- To peel them easily, you can blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water – the skin will slip right off!
Taking your time to find ripe peaches will make this salad so much tastier!
Easy Millionaire Peach Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 large ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup caramel or honey drizzle
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you decide to chill it in the fridge before serving, add another 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors. Overall, you can have this refreshing treat ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
Start by peeling the peaches. To do this easily, make a small cut on the bottom of each peach, then blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, and transfer them to ice water. The skins will slip right off! Once peeled, slice the peaches into bite-sized pieces and set them aside.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese and the sliced peaches. Gently stir them together until the peaches are well coated in the cottage cheese.
3. Add the Nuts:
Add the chopped pecans or walnuts to the bowl. Toss everything gently to make sure the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the peach and cottage cheese mixture.
4. Assemble and Serve:
Spoon the creamy mixture into individual serving bowls. Top each bowl with fresh raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.
5. Finishing Touches:
Drizzle caramel or honey generously over the top of each serving. If you like, add some fresh mint leaves for a lovely garnish and a pop of green.
6. Chilling (Optional):
If you’re not ready to serve the salad right away, cover the bowls and put them in the refrigerator. Chill for about 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld together, but it’s delicious served immediately too!
Enjoy this creamy, fruity, and nutty salad that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes! If fresh peaches aren’t available, canned peaches can be a great substitute. Just make sure to drain them well and avoid those packed in syrup to keep the salad light and fresh.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the texture may change slightly as the peaches soften, so it’s best enjoyed freshly made.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based yogurt or a vegan ricotta. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for a completely vegan salad.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
Feel free to mix in other fruits for added flavor! Strawberries, blueberries, or even banana slices would be great additions. Just keep the total fruit amount similar to maintain the balance in the salad.
