I admit the title, Perfect Peach Salad, could invite some debate, but I love this marriage of sweet and savory peaches, tomatoes, and basil.
I hope you have all been enjoying the summer sun and have been safe. We are coming to the end of this gorgeous season, so I wanted to send out a quick recipe to take advantage of two of my favourite late-summer crops: peaches and tomatoes.
Fresh garden tomatoes were a staple in my house growing up. Mamma would toss them in vinegar and olive and then sop up the juices with homemade bread. This dish elevates that idea and always reminds me how good the flavors of sweet and savory are when paired together; it is also simple and looks impressive for Instagram. As you can see, I like to serve the salad with prosciutto and a nice bread. Ciabatta or Focaccia works really well.
Below, you will find the ingredients and directions laid out. Try the recipe and let me know what you think. If you enjoy salad please share it on social or by word of mouth. The peaches came from Golden West Farms at the Kitsilano location of Vancouver Farmers Markets.
The dates of my fall classes at Kitsilano, Killarney, and Dunbar Community Centers are here. Killarney is my newest location so to all of you east of Main St come join me. Certain dates have already sold out, so I recommend not delaying.
If you have any food questions, are looking for suggestions, or want to catch up, please do reach out. Until then, be well and always #EatwiththoseyouLove ®
Peter
Pasta Boy Peter ®
As with any recipe always use safe cooking procedures, & food safe practices. Health Canada is a great site for all food safe guidelines. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/topics/food-safety.html
Perfect Peach Salad Recipe
Serves 2-3
Ingredients:
3 Medium to Large Ripe Peaches
3 Medium Tomatoes – A selection of ripe tomatoes. Enough tomatoes are needed to match the quantity of peaches on your plate. I like Campari, but heirloom or cherry will also work.
1/3 Cipollini Onion – Only add a small amount of onion to avoid overpowering the dish. Any sweet onion will work, but if they are large, reduce the amount.
6-10 basil leaves – Depending on the size of the leaves. Spread the basil around the dish, ensuring leaves on each grouping of peaches and tomatoes.
½ tsp fresh chilli – I used 1/5th of a Portuguese pepper, which is mildly hot. Add more, or a hotter one, if you wish.
1 tsp diced Preserved Lemon – Optional – I like the salty acid zing that this provides. Try a little lemon zest as another option.
A delicate drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic
Vinegar – The oil and vinegar should touch every grouping but don’t drown the salad.
Instructions:
Start by cutting your juicy peaches and ripe tomatoes into evenly sliced wedges. Arrange the peaches and tomatoes so they are touching. The wedges shouldn’t be huge but large enough that they give you a satisfying bite.
Slice some Cipollini onions very thin so their flavour does not overpower the salad. If you prefer, substitute other sweet or mild onions or leave them off.
Pluck some fresh basil leaves, tearing them into small pieces. Space the basil out so that every grouping of tomato and peach receives a pop.
For an added zing, dice some fresh chili and sprinkle it over your peach salad.
Take this peach salad to the next level by adding some preserved lemons or a topping of grated parmesan or pecorino chesses.
Season with salt and pepper evenly across the whole dish to enhance the flavors.
Lastly, dress your salad by drizzling quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar evenly over all the ingredients. The fat and sweet acid will bring the flavours together, making the salad pop.
Now go and try this Perfect Peach Salad recipe and always remember to #EatwiththoseyouLove ®
An easy vegetarian dinner recipe that is tasty & healthy peasant cooking in 15 to 20 minutes! If you like this one please share, like and comment. To find out more about our cooking classes Vancouver, check out our home page.
Peter
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Pasta Boy Peter ®