Introduction

The Ultimate Summer Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for warm days. Combining juicy peaches, crisp cucumbers, and tangy lime dressing, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This salad makes a great light lunch or a colorful side for any summer meal.

A large white plate filled with a colorful layered salad sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is made of green leafy lettuce, fresh and crisp, covering the whole plate. On top of this, there are chunks of golden grilled pineapple and roasted cherry tomatoes scattered around, adding bright yellow and red colors. Sliced radishes with white centers and pink edges are thinly spread over the salad. Sprigs of fresh green herbs like dill and parsley are scattered on top, along with a topping of crispy fried shallots giving a crunchy brown texture. The mix looks fresh, vibrant, and inviting, with a variety of textures and colors from green to yellow, red, white, and brown. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large limes, divided
1/2 small red onion
1 1/4 teaspoons granulated sugar, divided
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste
1 clove garlic
1/4 cup packed finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves, plus whole leaves and tender stems for serving
1/4 cup olive oil
1 medium head butter lettuce (about 1 pound), such as Boston or Bibb
2 Persian cucumbers, or 1 medium English cucumber
6 ounces multi-colored cherry tomatoes (about 1 cup)
2 large ripe peaches
4 ounces feta cheese
1/4 cup roasted, salted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Finely grate the zest of 1 large lime. Add 1 teaspoon of the zest to a small bowl and reserve the remaining zest for topping the salad. Juice 1 tablespoon of lime juice into the bowl. Thinly slice 1/2 small red onion (about 1/2 cup) and add it to the bowl. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Toss to coat the onions and set aside to pickle for at least 15 minutes, tossing once or twice to ensure even coating.
Step 2: In a small bowl or jar, prepare the dressing: juice the remaining 1 1/2 limes until you have 1/4 cup lime juice. Finely chop 1 clove garlic and 1/4 cup packed cilantro leaves, then add them. Stir in 1/4 cup olive oil, the remaining 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk or shake well to combine.
Step 3: In a large salad bowl, tear the butter lettuce leaves into bite-sized pieces (about 10 packed cups). Thinly slice the Persian cucumbers or halve the English cucumber lengthwise and then slice thinly. Add the cucumbers to the bowl.
Step 4: Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the salad bowl. Halve and pit the peaches, then cut them into 1/2-inch thick slices and add to the bowl as well. Crumble the feta cheese (about 1 cup) over the salad.
Step 5: Add 1/4 cup roasted, salted pumpkin seeds, the pickled onion (discard any excess liquid), the reserved lime zest, and a handful of torn cilantro leaves and tender stems on top of the salad. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Finish by topping the salad with the remaining dressing just before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, omit the pumpkin seeds or substitute with toasted sunflower seeds.
If peaches are not in season, ripe nectarines or mango slices make a delicious alternative.
To add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp complement the flavors nicely.
Use a microplane grater for the lime zest to get fine, flavorful pieces without the bitter pith.

Storage

Store the salad components separately for up to 2 days in the refrigerator to keep ingredients fresh. Keep the dressing in an airtight container. Once dressed, consume the salad immediately as the lettuce and peaches may release moisture and wilt. Leftovers can be stored for up to 24 hours but are best enjoyed fresh. To reheat any grilled protein addition, warm gently before adding to the salad.

How to Serve

The image shows a large white oval bowl filled with a fresh salad on a white marbled surface. The salad has several layers, starting with a base of dark green leafy lettuce and spinach. On top, there are vibrant orange peach slices, thinly sliced red radishes, and deep red cherries scattered evenly. Small white chunks of cheese are sprinkled over the salad, with a light sprinkling of black pepper adding texture. A gold spoon rests beside the bowl. The colors are bright and fresh, highlighting the mix of textures from soft fruit to crunchy greens. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes, any tender leafy lettuce such as green leaf or romaine can be used, though butter lettuce offers a soft texture that complements the other ingredients well.

How do I prevent the peaches from browning?

Toss peach slices lightly with a little lime juice to slow oxidation and keep them looking fresh until serving.