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This easy peach watermelon salad is my go-to when the weather turns hot and everyone craves something light and juicy It brings together sweet summer fruit with a pop of mint and citrus for the perfect side on picnics lazy lunches or backyard gatherings
My family asks for this salad as soon as the first watermelon hits the farmer’s market I once brought it to a barbecue and it disappeared before I even put my plate together
Ingredients
- Ripe peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and smell fragrant They offer sweetness and a hint of tanginess
- Seedless watermelon: Pick watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has and a creamy yellow spot where it rested in the field This means it is ripe and juicy Watermelon gives the salad its crisp hydrating texture
- Fresh mint: Use vibrant green mint leaves for the brightest flavor Mint lifts the fruit and keeps the salad fresh
- Lemon or lime juice: Fresh squeezed is best since it adds zing and balances sweetness
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Optional but a splash brings out the fruit’s depth and makes the salad feel luxurious Use the best quality you have
- Cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle peppery note that surprises in the nicest way
- Sea salt: A tiny pinch intensifies every flavor and makes the fruit taste even sweeter
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice the Fruit:
- Cut the peaches into even wedges or chunks Aim for slices about half an inch thick so they hold up in the salad For watermelon trim off the rind and cube into one-inch pieces making sure they are bite-sized and easy to eat
- Prep the Mint:
- Wash and dry the mint leaves Stack the leaves and roughly chop or tear them so the oils release and they spread evenly through the salad
- Combine Everything:
- Place the peaches and watermelon in a large mixing bowl Scatter the chopped mint over the top Sprinkle in a pinch of sea salt and a generous grind of cracked black pepper
- Dress and Toss:
- Add the fresh lemon or lime juice and drizzle with olive oil if you like Gently toss using your hands or a big spoon Try not to crush the fruit so it stays crisp
- Chill and Serve:
- Let the salad rest in the fridge for fifteen to twenty minutes if you have time This step helps flavors blend Serve cold and enjoy
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Peach is my favorite part of this salad It reminds me of summers at my aunt’s house where fresh peaches from the backyard turned every meal into something special The smell always brings me right back
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to two days The fruit will release some juice as it sits so give it a gentle stir before serving I like keeping any extra mint on the side and adding it just before eating to keep the flavor fresh
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find good peaches nectarines work almost as well Swap in fresh basil for mint if you want a slightly different herbal note You can also use orange or grapefruit juice in place of the lemon lime for a subtle twist
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad on a hot afternoon as a snack or alongside grilled chicken burgers or fish For parties scoop it into small cups with forks or serve over a bed of arugula for a more elevated side
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Light Summer Traditions
Watermelon salads are classic in many cultures especially throughout southern Europe and the Middle East The mix of fruit mint and citrus is a time honored way to cool down and make the most of local produce
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Can I use other fruits alongside peaches and watermelon?
Yes, try adding strawberries, cherries, or blueberries to enhance color and variety without overpowering the peaches and watermelon.
- → Which mint works best in this salad?
Fresh spearmint is ideal, but peppermint also works. Use just enough so the mint complements rather than dominates the fruit.
- → Is olive oil necessary?
The olive oil is optional and adds a silky finish, but you can leave it out for an ultra-light version.
- → How long can this salad be stored?
It's best served fresh, but it can be refrigerated for up to one day. Expect the fruit to release more juice as it sits.
- → What can I serve with this summer salad?
Pair it with grilled meats, barbecue, or light cheeses for a balanced summer meal.