This Millionaire Peach Salad is a fruity delight! Packed with juicy peaches, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese, it’s a colorful dish that makes anyone feel fancy without the fuss.
Seriously, it’s like summer on a plate! I love serving this salad at barbecues or picnics. It’s quick to whip up and always leaves everyone asking for the recipe—how fun is that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are key for sweetness and texture. If they’re out of season, you can use nectarines as a substitute or even canned peaches (drained) if fresh isn’t available.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries give a lovely tartness, but frozen ones work just as well and save money too! If you can’t find raspberries, try strawberries or blueberries for a different twist.
Cottage Cheese: This is the creamy base of the salad. For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta. Both options add a creamy texture and protein.
Pecans or Walnuts: I prefer pecans for their buttery flavor, but walnuts are a fine choice too. Feel free to skip them for a nut-free option or use seeds like sunflower seeds instead.
How Do I Combine Ingredients Without Making a Mess?
Combining ingredients gently is key to keeping the salad pretty and tasty. You want to maintain the shape of the fruit. Here’s how:
- Use a large mixing bowl and a spatula for folding ingredients, as they’re gentle on fruit.
- When adding the peach and raspberry mix to the cottage cheese, pour it in, then move the spatula around the bowl, lifting and turning gently.
- For whipped cream, fold it in last to keep it fluffy. Use quick, light motions to maintain its airiness.
How to Make Millionaire Peach Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream (optional for a lighter version)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 30 minutes in the fridge to let the flavors come together. A quick and easy treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fruit:
Start by peeling and dicing the ripe peaches. Place the diced peaches in a large mixing bowl. Then, add the fresh or frozen raspberries to the bowl with the peaches. This colorful combination forms the base of your salad!
2. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In another bowl, mix the cottage cheese, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and you have a smooth, creamy mixture. This will add a rich flavor to your salad!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Gently fold the peach and raspberry mixture into the cottage cheese mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to carefully combine, making sure not to mash the fruit.
4. Add the Nuts:
Now, it’s time to stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts. Ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture to add a delightful crunch to your salad.
5. Incorporate Whipped Cream (Optional):
If you’d like a lighter version, gently fold the whipped cream into the salad mixture at this point. This will give your salad a fluffy and airy texture!
6. Serve the Salad:
Transfer the salad to a beautiful serving bowl or individual cups for a fancy touch. Drizzle some extra honey on top if desired, and garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added pop of color and flavor!
7. Enjoy or Chill:
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy your delicious Millionaire Peach Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Salad?
Yes, frozen peaches can be used! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before dicing. This will help maintain the texture of the salad without making it too watery.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a creamier texture. Greek yogurt will give you a tangier flavor while ricotta offers a milder taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the fruits may release some moisture, so it’s best to stir the salad before serving to redistribute the flavors!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just wait to add the whipped cream and nuts until right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
