Summertime Peach Salad

Several weeks ago, I was privileged to write a guest blog post for SVSmiles.  I shared this light and easy salad which I happily now share with you.

Salads are wonderful in summer with so many fresh fruits and vegetables available.  There are many variations on the salad theme, but I particularly like the use of peaches in this recipe.  And, it only takes a minute to whisk up your own homemade dressing with ingredients you have on hand.  Make the dressing ahead if there's time so the flavors will blend.

Summertime Peach Salad

8 cups baby spinach, stems removed and leaves torn
2 fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
1/4 cup peeled and chopped cucumber
3 tablespoons crumbled lowfat Feta cheese (1 ounce)
2 tablespoons dried cranberries
2 tablespoons chopped pecans, toasted

Dressing:
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
Dash freshly ground black pepper

Tear spinach leaves into bite-size pieces and place in salad bowl.  Add peaches, cucumber, Feta, cranberries, and pecans.  In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients.  Pour over salad and toss.  Makes 2 large servings, 4 points plus and 245 calories each.

Note:  Make this salad a meal by adding protein such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans.  Change it by substituting goat cheese or a blue cheese for the Feta.  Walnuts could replace the pecans, and balsamic vinegar could replace the red wine vinegar.