This Peach and Goat Cheese Salad is as refreshing as it is wholesome. An effortlessly nutritious summer salad crafted with heirloom tomatoes, ripe peaches, cured goat cheese, and crunchy cucumbers, all brought together with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of hand-harvested Algarve sea salt.
This salad embodies the essence of seasonal eating, highlighting the unparalleled flavour of fresh, high-quality produce. Light and invigorating, it offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it an ideal choice for those mindful of their calorie intake without sacrificing enjoyment. This salad is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, offering a nourishing dish that is bound to become a staple in your summer meal rotation.
Perfect for a light lunch on a warm day, a healthy addition to your next gathering, or a refreshing side dish to complement your favourite summer entrées.
Trying to stay within a calorie deficit? This salad has become my effortless go-to.
Ingredients (Serves Two)
- 500g of salad leaves
- 1 large Heirloom tomato
- 2 ripe peaches
- 1 organic cucumber
- 1 red onion
- 180g of good quality cured goats cheese
- 1 pinch of Algarve sea salt
- 2 twists of freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
Method
01
Gather all your fresh ingredients. Ensure your heirloom tomatoes, peaches, and cucumbers are ripe. Wash the salad leaves and cucumbers thoroughly.
02
Assemble the Salad Base by first coating the greens with the olive oil. Then transfer and arrange a generous handful of fresh salad leaves equally onto two serving platters.
03
Slice the heirloom tomatoes into medium to thin slices and the peaches into substantial wedges. Distribute them evenly over the salad leaves. These fruits provide a stunning colour palette in addition to sweet and tangy notes.
04
Slice the cucumber into thin rounds and add them to the salad. Their crisp texture and refreshing taste complete this light and healthy dish.
05
Crumble the cured goat cheese over the salad. Thinly slice the red onions and sprinkle them on top. The cheese adds a creamy texture, while the onions bring a slight sharpness that harmonises with the sweetness of the peaches and tomatoes.
06
Finish by lightly sprinkling Algarve sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the salad. These seasonings enhance the natural flavours of the ingredients without overpowering them.
07
Finish by drizzling the amount of olive oil from the north of Portugal over the salad. This high-quality oil adds a rich, silky texture and a subtle, nutty flavour that ties all the ingredients together.
The Secret to This Early-Summer Salad
The true joy of this simple early-summer Salad lies in the quality of its produce. Each element, from the heirloom tomatoes and ripe peaches to the cured goat cheese and cucumbers, is chosen for its nutritional value and superior taste. Using the best ingredients you can source, will ensure that each bite is perfectly balanced, creating a light but satisfying dish. Perfect for a mid-day meal, his salad celebrates the beauty of simplicity and the power of high-quality produce.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese in this salad? Absolutely! While cured goat cheese adds a unique creamy texture and tangy flavour, feel free to substitute it with feta, blue cheese, or fresh mozzarella for a different, yet equally delightful experience.
2. How important is it to use heirloom tomatoes? Heirloom tomatoes are celebrated for their rich flavour and vibrant colours, which elevate the visual and taste appeal of the salad. However, any fresh, ripe tomatoes can be used if heirlooms are not available, ensuring you still enjoy a juicy and flavourful bite.
3. Can this salad be prepared in advance? Yes, you can prepare the components of this salad ahead of time. Slice the tomatoes, peaches, and cucumbers, and store them separately. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain its crispness and freshness.
4. What other ingredients can I add to enhance this salad? Feel free to personalise your salad with additional ingredients like sliced avocados, toasted nuts, or fresh herbs such as basil or mint. These additions can introduce new flavours and textures, making the salad even more exciting.
5. What makes Algarve sea salt special? Algarve sea salt is hand-harvested from the pristine waters of the Algarve coast in Portugal. Its mineral-rich composition and delicate flavour enhance the natural taste of fresh ingredients, making it a superior choice for seasoning this salad.
6. Can I use flavoured olive oil for this salad? Absolutely! While olive oil from the north of Portugal provides a rich, nutty flavour, you can experiment with flavoured olive oils such as lemon, basil, or garlic infused to add an extra layer of complexity and enhance the overall taste of the salad.
Did you make it? Tag @thegoodsmagazine on Instagram and share some snaps!
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