This refreshing Millionaire Peach Salad combines juicy peaches, creamy yogurt, and crunchy nuts for a tasty treat. It’s perfect for sunny days or as a sweet side dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peach Slices: Canned peaches are easy to use and always sweet. If you have fresh peaches, they can also be a delicious substitute. Just make sure to peel and chop them for consistency.
Whipped Topping: While I used Cool Whip, you could substitute with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form.
Miniature Marshmallows: These add a fun texture, but feel free to use mini candy marshmallows or omit them if you’re not a fan of marshmallows. They won’t affect the overall taste much.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I enjoy the slight sharpness it gives, but you can replace it with shredded mozzarella or even cream cheese if you prefer a creamier salad.
Chopped Nuts: I love pecans for their rich flavor, but walnuts or almonds are great alternatives. You can even leave them out for a nut-free version or use seeds like sunflower seeds for crunch.
How Do You Make This Salad Light and Fluffy?
The key to a light and fluffy texture in this salad lies in gently folding ingredients rather than stirring vigorously. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by mixing the peaches, sour cream, and vanilla extract gently until combined.
- When folding in the whipped topping, use a spatula to lift the mixture from the bottom and fold it over the top. This keeps the air in and gives a fluffy finish.
- Always add the crunchy ingredients like marshmallows and nuts at the end to avoid them breaking down.
Chilling the salad is essential as it allows flavors to blend. Enjoy the wonderful fruits and textures in every bite!
How to Make Easy Millionaire Peach Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (15 oz) can peach slices, drained and chopped
- 1 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 (8 oz) container of sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: a few maraschino cherries for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional chilling time of at least 1 hour before serving. That gives you plenty of time to relax while the flavors blend perfectly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and chopped peach slices with the sour cream and vanilla extract. Stir gently to mix them together. This base gives the salad its creamy flavor.
2. Add the Whipped Topping:
Carefully fold in the whipped topping until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Be gentle, as you want to keep the airiness of the whipped topping!
3. Mix in the Crunch:
Now, it’s time to add the fun ingredients! Add the miniature marshmallows, shredded cheddar cheese, and the chopped pecans or walnuts into the peach mixture. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly combined.
4. Serve It Up:
Transfer your delicious mixture into a serving bowl. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional chopped nuts on top for garnish. It adds a nice crunch!
5. Chill and Garnish:
Place the salad in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows all the lovely flavors to meld together perfectly. Before serving, consider adding maraschino cherries on top for a colorful and fun touch!
Enjoy this delightful creamy, fruity, and crunchy salad that’s perfect as a side dish or even a dessert! Everyone will love it!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Millionaire Peach Salad
Can I Use Fresh Peaches Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh peaches work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Using fresh fruit can add an extra burst of flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Whipped Topping?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can whip heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. This gives a fresh taste and can be a great alternative to store-bought whipped topping.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your Millionaire Peach Salad can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making in advance. Prepare it a day before serving, just be sure to keep it refrigerated. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier!
