Millionaire Peach Salad: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Millionaire Peach Salad: the name alone conjures images of lavish summer picnics and decadent desserts. But don’t let the fancy title fool you; this delightful dish is surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. I remember the first time I tasted this creamy, dreamy concoction at a family reunion. One bite, and I was hooked! It was the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a satisfying crunch that kept me coming back for more.

While the exact origins of Millionaire Peach Salad are shrouded in a bit of mystery, similar fruit salads have been a staple of Southern cuisine for generations. They often graced tables at celebratory gatherings, showcasing the region’s abundant fresh produce. This particular variation, with its creamy dressing and crunchy pecans, elevates the classic fruit salad to a whole new level of indulgence.

What makes this salad so irresistible? It’s the harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The juicy sweetness of ripe peaches is perfectly complemented by the creamy richness of the dressing and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans. It’s a dish that’s both refreshing and comforting, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize! Feel free to add other fruits like mandarin oranges or pineapple for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert or a light and refreshing side dish, Millionaire Peach Salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:
• 1 (29 ounce) can sliced peaches, drained well
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained very well
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, your preference!)
• 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, halved
• For the Dressing:
• 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended for best flavor and texture)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon peach juice (reserved from the canned peaches)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Preparing the Salad:

1. Drain the Fruit Thoroughly: This is the most crucial step! You absolutely must drain the peaches and pineapple very well. Excess liquid will make the salad watery and the dressing won’t adhere properly. I usually press the pineapple with a spoon to extract as much juice as possible. For the peaches, I lay them on paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture.
2. Chop the Peaches (if needed): If your peach slices are large, you might want to chop them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This makes the salad easier to eat and ensures a better distribution of flavors. I usually cut each slice into quarters.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the drained peaches, drained crushed pineapple, miniature marshmallows, chopped pecans or walnuts, shredded coconut, and halved maraschino cherries. Be careful not to overmix, as you don’t want to crush the marshmallows or fruit.

Making the Dressing:

1. Whisk Together the Dressing Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, granulated sugar, reserved peach juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. Some people prefer a slightly tangier dressing, so you can add a tiny squeeze of lemon juice if you like.

Assembling the Millionaire Peach Salad:

1. Gently Fold in the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently fold it in until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Again, be careful not to overmix. You want the salad to be well-dressed but not soggy.
2. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the marshmallows to soften slightly. The longer it chills, the better it tastes!
3. Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. You can garnish it with extra chopped pecans or walnuts, shredded coconut, or a few more maraschino cherry halves for a pretty presentation. Serve chilled and enjoy! This salad is perfect as a side dish for potlucks, barbecues, holidays, or any occasion where you want a sweet and refreshing treat.

Tips and Variations:

• Fruit Variations: Feel free to experiment with other fruits! Mandarin oranges, grapes, or even fresh berries would be delicious additions. Just be sure to drain any canned fruit well.
• Nut Variations: If you’re not a fan of pecans or walnuts, you can use other nuts like almonds, cashews, or macadamia nuts. You can also toast the nuts for a richer flavor.
• Marshmallow Variations: You can use different flavors of miniature marshmallows, such as strawberry or chocolate, for a fun twist.
• Coconut Variations: If you prefer a less sweet salad, use unsweetened shredded coconut. You can also toast the coconut for a more intense flavor.
• Adding Cream Cheese: For an even richer and creamier salad, you can add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese to the dressing. Just be sure to whisk it in well until it’s completely smooth.
• Lighten it Up: To make a lighter version of this salad, you can use light mayonnaise and fat-free sour cream. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing.
• Make it Ahead: This salad is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better after it’s been chilled for a few hours or overnight. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Serving Suggestions: Millionaire Peach Salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish, dessert, or even a light lunch. It pairs well with grilled chicken, pork, or fish. It’s also a great addition to a potluck or picnic.
• Preventing Watery Salad: The key to preventing a watery salad is to drain the fruit extremely well. I cannot stress this enough! You can even pat the fruit dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Also, don’t add the dressing until just before serving, as this will help prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a little more sugar.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftover Millionaire Peach Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly watery over time, but it will still taste delicious. I recommend giving it a gentle stir before serving.

Why is it called Millionaire Salad?

The name “Millionaire Salad” likely comes from the fact that it was once considered a luxurious and decadent dish, using ingredients that were perhaps more expensive or considered special treats in the past. Ingredients like canned fruit, nuts, and marshmallows were not always readily available or affordable, so a salad combining these items would have been seen as a splurge. While the ingredients are now quite common and affordable, the name has stuck, evoking a sense of indulgence and special occasion.

Troubleshooting:

• Salad is too watery: You didn’t drain the fruit well enough. Next time, be sure to drain the fruit thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. You can also try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the dressing to help thicken it.
• Salad is too sweet: Reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing next time. You can also use unsweetened shredded coconut.
• Salad is not sweet enough: Add more sugar to the dressing. You can also use sweetened shredded coconut.
• Salad is too dry: Add a little more mayonnaise or sour cream to the dressing.
• Salad is too bland: Add a pinch of salt to the dressing. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a little tang.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving
• Fat: Approximately 20-30 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 grams per serving
• Protein: Approximately 2-4 grams per serving

Enjoy your Millionaire Peach Salad! I hope you and your family love it as much as mine does.

Conclusion:

This Millionaire Peach Salad isn’t just a salad; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will elevate any meal or gathering. The creamy, dreamy dressing, the juicy bursts of fresh peaches, the satisfying crunch of pecans, and the salty-sweet dance of the crumbled cookies all come together in perfect harmony. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s called “Millionaire.” It tastes like a million bucks!

But beyond the incredible taste, what makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility and ease of preparation. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for potlucks, barbecues, or even a simple weeknight dinner. You can whip up the dressing and chop the ingredients in advance, then simply assemble everything just before serving. No fuss, no stress, just pure culinary delight.

Why is this Millionaire Peach Salad a must-try? Because it’s a crowd-pleaser, it’s easy to make, and it’s absolutely delicious! It’s the kind of recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe, of course!).

Looking for serving suggestions? This salad shines as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, pork, or fish. It’s also a fantastic addition to a brunch spread or a light lunch. For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled shrimp or chicken directly into the salad.

And don’t be afraid to get creative with variations! Swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty crunch. If you’re not a fan of shortbread cookies, try using vanilla wafers or even crushed graham crackers. For a tangier twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing. If you want to make it even more decadent, consider adding a layer of whipped cream on top just before serving. You can also use canned peaches if fresh peaches are not in season, just be sure to drain them well.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

• Protein Power: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
• Nutty Alternatives: Walnuts or almonds work beautifully in place of pecans.
• Cookie Crumbles: Vanilla wafers or graham crackers offer a delightful twist.
• Tangy Touch: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dressing.
• Extra Decadence: Top with whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Out of Season Peaches: Canned peaches are a great substitute, just drain them well.

I truly believe that this Millionaire Peach Salad will become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. It’s a guaranteed hit with family and friends, and it’s so simple to make that you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and time again.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to experience the magic of this Millionaire Peach Salad. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your stories. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, I am here to help. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!

---

June 20, 2025 by Melissa