Refreshing Summer Medley with Blueberries and Peaches: A Taste of Summer in Every Bite

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This summer medley is a true celebration of the season. It combines the sweet and tangy flavors of blueberries and peaches with the crunch of cucumbers, topped off with the salty richness of feta cheese. The light and zesty vinaigrette, made with fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil, brings everything together in the most refreshing way possible. This dish can be served as a salad, a side dish, or even a light, healthy snack. It’s quick and easy to prepare, taking only 10 minutes, which means you’ll be enjoying a burst of summer flavor in no time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pint fresh blueberries

• 2 peaches, diced

• 2 Persian cucumbers, sliced

• ½ cup crumbled feta

• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped basil

• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large serving bowl, combine the blueberries, peaches, cucumbers, and feta.

2. In a jar with a lid, combine the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, basil, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk together until the vinaigrette is well combined.

3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and gently mix everything together. Taste for seasoning and garnish with extra basil.

4. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add Protein: For a more substantial dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn it into a complete meal.

• Use Different Cheese: If you don’t have feta on hand, goat cheese or mozzarella would work just as well in this refreshing salad.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for extra crunch and flavor.

• Make It Spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeño to the vinaigrette for a spicy kick.

• Herb Alternatives: Swap the basil for mint or cilantro if you're craving a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Note that the cucumbers may release some moisture, but the salad will still taste delicious.

• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed chilled and is not suited for reheating.

FAQs

How long does the salad stay fresh in the fridge?

The salad can be stored for up to 1-2 days in the refrigerator, though it's best enjoyed fresh for the most vibrant flavors.

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

While fresh blueberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, frozen blueberries can be used in a pinch, but they may release more liquid and affect the salad's consistency.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 2 hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the vinaigrette just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Can I add other fruits to this medley?

Absolutely! This salad is versatile, and you can add fruits like strawberries, mango, or watermelon for a different twist.

What other herbs can I use in place of basil?

If you're not a fan of basil, try using mint, cilantro, or even parsley for a refreshing change.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative to make it vegan-friendly.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?

Yes, regular cucumbers will work, but Persian cucumbers are typically smaller, sweeter, and have thinner skin, making them ideal for this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a little more honey. Conversely, reduce the honey for a more tart vinaigrette.

Can I use a store-bought vinaigrette instead of making my own?

While you can use a store-bought vinaigrette in a pinch, homemade vinaigrette offers the best fresh flavors and balance for this salad.

Conclusion

This refreshing summer medley with blueberries and peaches is the perfect dish to cool off and enjoy the best flavors of the season. With its easy preparation, vibrant ingredients, and versatile nature, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for your summer gatherings. Whether you're serving it as a light meal or a side dish, this salad brings a burst of freshness that everyone will love.

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Refreshing Summer Medley with Blueberries and Peaches: A Taste of Summer in Every Bite

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A refreshing summer medley combining sweet blueberries, juicy peaches, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta, topped with a light and zesty lemon vinaigrette.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 pint fresh blueberries

2 peaches, diced

2 Persian cucumbers, sliced

½ cup crumbled feta

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon finely chopped basil

Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large serving bowl, combine the blueberries, peaches, cucumbers, and feta.
2. In a jar with a lid, combine the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, basil, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk together until the vinaigrette is well combined.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and gently mix everything together. Taste for seasoning and garnish with extra basil.
4. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

• For a more substantial dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• If you don’t have feta, try goat cheese or mozzarella.
• Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for extra crunch.
• Spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes or jalapeño.
• Swap basil for mint, cilantro, or parsley for a flavor variation.
• This salad is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by omitting the feta or using a dairy-free alternative.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days, though the cucumbers may release moisture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg