Peach & Mozzarella Summer Salad with Lemon Dressing: The Brightest, Freshest Salad for Sunny Days

When summer is in full swing and juicy peaches are everywhere, this Peach & Mozzarella Summer Salad with Lemon Dressing is the first thing I want to make. It’s my go-to for backyard BBQs, lazy lunches, and easy weeknight dinners always drawing “wow” reactions from anyone who tries it. Think: ripe, sweet peaches layered with creamy mozzarella, tossed with vibrant basil, all drizzled in a zesty lemon dressing that brings it all together. This salad is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy, and best of all, it comes together in just minutes. If you’re craving a dish that truly tastes like summer, you’ve just found it!

this Recipe

What Is Peach & Mozzarella Summer Salad?

This salad is a sunny, modern riff on classic Caprese, swapping tomatoes for ripe peaches and pairing them with fresh mozzarella balls or slices. The flavors get an extra lift from plenty of basil and a bright, homemade lemon dressing that’s whisked together in seconds. The peaches’ natural sweetness and the mozzarella’s creaminess make for a refreshing, colorful platter that’s both elegant and incredibly simple. Serve it as a starter, a side, or a light main it always shines.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

There’s a reason this is my signature summer salad:

• Only a Handful of Ingredients: Fresh peaches, mozzarella, basil, and pantry staples.
• No Cooking Required: Just slice, layer, and drizzle!
• Vibrant Flavors: Sweet, juicy peaches meet creamy mozzarella and peppery basil.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Looks stunning and feels fancy—perfect for parties and potlucks.
• Healthy & Light: Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and full of vitamins.
• Ready in 10 Minutes: A fast, fresh addition to any meal.

How Does Peach & Mozzarella Summer Salad Taste?

One bite and you’ll understand the hype. The peaches are at their absolute best—sweet, floral, and just soft enough. Mozzarella brings rich creaminess, while basil adds a burst of garden-fresh flavor. The lemon dressing provides tang and balances the sweetness, with a hint of olive oil for richness. Black pepper and flaky salt bring it all together, making each mouthful a symphony of bright, sunny flavors. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and totally addictive.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

This salad is not just beautiful—it’s packed with nutritional perks:

• Peaches: High in fiber, vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.
• Mozzarella: Good source of calcium and protein, with a creamy texture.
• Basil: Rich in vitamin K and antioxidants.
• Lemon Juice: Vitamin C boost, adds tang without extra calories.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, helps absorb vitamins from produce.
• Naturally Gluten-Free & Vegetarian: Great for all eaters!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a generous platter (4 servings), gather:

• 3–4 ripe peaches (yellow or white), pitted and sliced into wedges
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella (balls or slices)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Flaky sea salt or kosher salt

For the Lemon Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra brightness)

Tools You’ll Need

You only need the basics:

• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl and whisk (for dressing)
• Large platter or serving plate
• Measuring spoons

Optional Substitutions & Additions

This salad is super flexible! Try these swaps:

• Vegan: Substitute vegan mozzarella or avocado slices.
• No Basil?: Use fresh mint or arugula for a different twist.
• Add Greens: Serve over a bed of baby spinach or arugula.
• Extra Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts, pistachios, or walnuts.
• Fruit Swap: Try nectarines, plums, or a mix of stone fruits.
• More Sweetness: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

How to Make Peach & Mozzarella Summer Salad

1. Slice Peaches & Mozzarella: Wash and slice peaches into wedges. Slice mozzarella if using a large ball, or halve mozzarella balls.
2. Arrange on Platter: Layer peaches and mozzarella on a large platter, overlapping for a beautiful presentation.
3. Make Lemon Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, mustard, salt, and lemon zest until combined.
4. Add Basil & Seasoning: Scatter fresh basil over the top. Drizzle with lemon dressing.
5. Finish: Sprinkle with flaky salt and black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy the summer flavors!

What to Serve with Peach & Mozzarella Salad

This salad is the perfect side for:

• Grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp
• Crusty bread or crostini
• Charcuterie boards with prosciutto or salami
• Light pasta dishes
• As a topping for avocado toast or grain bowls

Tips for Success

• Use Ripe Peaches: Slightly soft and fragrant for the juiciest flavor.
• Don’t Overdress: Drizzle dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.
• Chill Ingredients: If it’s a hot day, chill your peaches and cheese for an extra-refreshing salad.
• Tear Basil by Hand: Prevents bruising and keeps it fresh.
• Serve Immediately: The salad is best right after assembly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Under-Ripe Fruit: Hard peaches won’t deliver the juicy, sweet bite you want.
• Overdressing: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy.
• Using Low-Quality Mozzarella: Fresh, whole-milk mozzarella is key for creaminess.
• Salting Too Soon: Add salt right before serving to avoid drawing out too much moisture from the peaches.

How to Store & Reheat

• Store: If you have leftovers, cover and refrigerate up to 1 day. The salad is best fresh—mozzarella and peaches can release liquid as they sit.
• Make Ahead: Prep the dressing and slice fruit/cheese ahead; assemble just before serving.
• Do Not Freeze: This salad is not freezer-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use nectarines or plums instead of peaches?
Absolutely! Any ripe stone fruit works beautifully.

Is it okay to use burrata or ricotta?
Yes, burrata is an incredible substitute for mozzarella.

Can I make this ahead for a party?
Slice everything and keep separate. Assemble and dress right before serving for the freshest result.

What about adding protein?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or prosciutto pairs perfectly!

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 13g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Sodium: 250mg

(Values vary with brand/type of mozzarella and dressing.)

Conclusion

Peach & Mozzarella Summer Salad with Lemon Dressing is a celebration of all the best summer flavors ripe peaches, creamy cheese, and zippy lemon, finished with fragrant basil. It’s proof that simple, seasonal ingredients can create showstopping dishes that everyone will remember. Serve this salad at your next gathering and watch it disappear fast—it’s sunshine on a plate!

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August 4, 2025 by Melissa