A vibrant Peach-Cucumber Salad with citrus, sumac, and herbs—refreshing, simple, and perfect for the summer-to-fall transition.
Summer into Fall: Peach-Cucumber Salad with Citrus & Sumac
As the golden days of summer begin to soften into the crisp edges of fall, I find myself reaching for recipes that bridge the seasons. This Peach-Cucumber Salad with Citrus & Sumac does exactly that—light and refreshing enough for warm afternoons, yet layered with bright herbs and a tangy spice that hint at the richer flavors of autumn ahead. Juicy peaches, cool cucumbers, and creamy avocado are tossed with a citrusy dressing, while basil and mint add a burst of garden freshness. It’s the kind of dish that feels just as at home on a sunny patio as it does on a cozy September evening.
What really makes this salad pop is the addition of sumac, a tangy Middle Eastern spice with a lemony brightness that enhances the sweet peaches and balances the creamy avocado. It may sound exotic, but it’s easy to find in most spice aisles or online, and once you try it, you’ll want to sprinkle it on everything. Best of all, this recipe comes together in minutes with just a handful of late summer produce. I’ve already made it three times in the past two weeks—it’s that flavorful, that simple, and that perfect for savoring every last juicy peach of the season.
Enjoy!
What Ingredients Do I Need?
- Seasoned rice vinegar – this gives the dressing a gentle tang with just the right touch of sweetness.
- Fresh lime juice – a splash of citrus that makes everything taste brighter.
- Sumac – the secret ingredient! It’s tangy, lemony, and brings a little something special you won’t get from lemon juice alone.
- Kosher salt – simple, but it pulls all the flavors together.
- Extra-virgin olive oil – smooth and rich, it mellows out the acidity for the perfect balance.
- Persian or English cucumbers – cool, crisp, and refreshing with every bite.
- Ripe peaches – juicy, sweet, and the absolute essence of late summer.
- Avocado – creamy and buttery, it adds a little luxury to this simple salad.
- Fresh basil leaves – fragrant and slightly peppery, they keep things lively.
- Fresh mint leaves – cool and bright, mint adds that extra refreshing finish.
Substitutions & Variations
- Peaches: Can’t find ripe peaches? No problem—nectarines or even firm mango chunks work beautifully.
- Cucumbers: If Persian or English cucumbers aren’t available, a regular cucumber will do—just peel and remove the seeds if you like.
- Herbs: Feel free to mix it up! Cilantro, tarragon, or even a little dill can give the salad a new twist.
- Sumac: No sumac? A squeeze of lemon zest or a tiny dash of lemon juice can mimic that bright, tangy flavor.
- Avocado: If you want it lighter, skip the avocado or swap it for chunks of fresh mozzarella or feta for creaminess.
- Dressing tweaks: Play with the citrus—orange or grapefruit juice can add a subtle sweetness and a fun twist on the classic lime.
Kitchen Tips & Notes
- Prep ahead: You can slice the cucumbers and chop the herbs a few hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to toss the salad.
- Peach selection: Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch—they’ll be juicier and sweeter in the salad.
- Dressing: Whisk the dressing just before serving for the freshest flavor. If you make it ahead, give it a quick shake or stir.
- Mix gently: Avocado bruises easily, so fold it in last and handle the salad gently to keep everything looking beautiful.
- Serving ideas: This salad is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or a light grain bowl for a complete meal.
- Make it fancy: For a fun twist, sprinkle a handful of toasted nuts or seeds on top—almonds, pepitas, or pistachios all work nicely.
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RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇
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