Peach and Berry Salad
Peach and Berry Salad Recipe from New England
Introduction
Peach and Berry Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that combines the sweetness of peaches with the tartness of blackberries and strawberries. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy summer meal or as a side dish for a barbecue.
History
The combination of peaches and berries in a salad is a classic summer dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This recipe is a modern twist on the traditional fruit salad, adding a hint of cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 3 peaches
- 2 pt (946 ml) blackberries
- 1 pt (473 ml) strawberries, hulled, sliced
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
How to prepare
- Bring a medium pot of water to a boil.
- Add the peaches and blanch for 30 seconds. Drain.
- Transfer the peaches to a medium bowl, cover with cold water, and let them cool. Drain.
- Peel the peaches and slice them. Place them in a medium bowl.
- Add all the remaining ingredients and mix well to blend.
Variations
- Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic vinegar for extra sweetness and flavor.
- Mix in some fresh mint or basil for an herby twist.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream for a creamy finish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to blanch the peaches before slicing them to easily remove the skin.
- Use ripe but firm peaches for the best texture in the salad.
- Adjust the amount of cardamom to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Peach and Berry Salad as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing snack. It also makes a great topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Cooking Techniques
Blanching the peaches helps to easily remove the skin, while slicing the fruit ensures a uniform texture in the salad. Mixing the ingredients gently helps to evenly distribute the flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to substitute other types of berries or stone fruits in this recipe, such as raspberries, blueberries, or nectarines. You can also swap out the cardamom for cinnamon or nutmeg.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the Peach and Berry Salad up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to mix the ingredients well before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Peach and Berry Salad in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or seeds on top for added crunch.
Pairing Recommendations
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a fruity cocktail.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of the Peach and Berry Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze this salad, as the texture of the fruit may become mushy when thawed.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Peach and Berry Salad contains approximately 100 calories, making it a light and healthy option for a snack or side dish.
Carbohydrates
This Peach and Berry Salad is a great source of carbohydrates, with the majority coming from the natural sugars found in the fruit. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
This salad is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving. The fats in this dish come primarily from the small amount of fat found naturally in the fruit.
Proteins
Peach and Berry Salad is not a significant source of protein, with less than 1 gram per serving. To increase the protein content, consider adding a sprinkle of nuts or seeds on top.
Vitamins and minerals
This salad is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the berries and peaches. It also contains fiber, potassium, and antioxidants from the fruit.
Alergens
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free, making it suitable for those with common food allergies. However, individuals with fruit allergies should avoid this dish.
Summary
Peach and Berry Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in fat and calories, high in vitamins and minerals, and a good source of carbohydrates. It is a healthy option for a summer meal or snack.
Summary
Peach and Berry Salad is a simple and delicious dish that highlights the natural sweetness of summer fruits. With a hint of cardamom for added flavor, this salad is a healthy and refreshing option for any occasion. Enjoy it as a snack, side dish, or dessert for a taste of summer in every bite.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through a dusty old cookbook that I had found tucked away in the back of my pantry. As I flipped through the pages, a colorful picture caught my eye - a vibrant array of peaches, berries, and fresh herbs all tossed together in a light and tangy dressing.
I had never made a salad quite like this before, but something about it spoke to me. The combination of sweet and savory, the burst of flavors and textures - it all seemed so perfect for a hot summer day. I knew right then and there that I had to try it.
But as I read through the recipe, I realized that I didn't have all the ingredients on hand. No matter, I thought to myself, I would just have to get creative. So I set out to the local farmers market to gather what I needed - ripe peaches, plump berries, and fragrant herbs.
As I walked through the bustling market, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The sun was shining, the air was filled with the scent of fresh produce, and I was on a mission to create something delicious. I carefully selected the juiciest peaches, the ripest berries, and the most fragrant herbs, knowing that each ingredient would play a crucial role in bringing the salad to life.
Back in my kitchen, I set to work. I sliced the peaches into thin wedges, gently tossed them with the berries, and sprinkled them with a handful of torn mint leaves. For the dressing, I whisked together a simple mixture of lemon juice, honey, and olive oil, tasting and adjusting until it was just right.
When everything was ready, I assembled the salad on a large platter, arranging the fruit in a colorful and inviting display. The final touch was a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a touch of black pepper, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
As I stepped back to admire my creation, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. This salad was more than just a dish - it was a culmination of my love for cooking, my passion for fresh ingredients, and my desire to create something beautiful and delicious.
I called my family to the table, eager to share my creation with them. As they took their first bites, their faces lit up with delight. The sweetness of the peaches, the tartness of the berries, and the freshness of the herbs all came together in perfect harmony. It was a moment of pure joy and satisfaction, knowing that I had created something truly special.
From that day on, Peach and Berry Salad became a staple in my repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on a quiet afternoon. Each time I made it, I would think back to that warm summer day at the farmers market, and how a simple recipe had sparked my imagination and brought me so much joy.
As I grew older, I passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, sharing with them the story of how I had discovered it and the memories it held for me. And as they took their first bites of the salad, I could see the same sense of wonder and delight in their eyes that I had felt all those years ago.
Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of herbs and fruit, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures of cooking and sharing good food with the ones I love. And as long as I have my trusty old cookbook and a handful of fresh ingredients, I know that the joy of creating delicious meals will always be close at hand.
Categories
| Blackberry Recipes | Cardamom Recipes | New England Recipes | New England Salads | Peach Recipes | Strawberry Recipes |