Peach Waldorf Salad
A refreshing and sweet salad combining juicy peaches, crunchy celery, walnuts, marshmallows, and crisp lettuce, perfect for summer gatherings or light, fruity meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine chopped peaches, sliced celery, chopped walnuts, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and salt if desired.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Rinse the lettuce in cold water and pat dry.
- Arrange the lettuce on a serving platter, top with the chilled peach mixture, and sprinkle with miniature marshmallows before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you might consider adding a scoop of Greek yogurt or substituting mayonnaise with a vegan alternative. If peaches are out of season, canned peaches work well too. Make sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile, reminiscent of similar American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Peach Waldorf Salad as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a more filling option, consider serving it alongside a grain salad or a classic dish like Torture Cake for dessert. Garnish with fresh mint for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave on low power to avoid wilting the lettuce. The flavors will still be delicious, but the texture may change slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peach Waldorf Salad contains roughly 112 calories, with 2g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1268mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peach mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just wait to add the miniature marshmallows until you are ready to serve to keep them fresh and fluffy.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different texture, you can substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Both options provide a nice crunch and complement the other ingredients well in this refreshing salad.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for vegan diets by using a plant-based mayonnaise or yogurt. Additionally, confirm that your marshmallows are vegan, as some brands contain gelatin. This makes it a delightful option for those following vegan recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).