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This Farmer's Market Salad celebrates the peak of the growing season with crisp greens, juicy fruits, creamy avocado, and crunchy seeds tossed in a lively lemon poppy seed dressing. It is that go-to dish for those times you want to eat light and nourish your body with the freshest market finds. From sunny brunch tables to easy weeknight dinners, this salad brings a burst of color and flavor to every plate.
One summer afternoon I tossed together a version of this salad after a trip to the farmers market and my family devoured it before I even sat down. It has become our sunny day staple.
Ingredients
- Lettuce: fresh and crisp greens give the salad a cool base look for lively green leaves with no wilting
- Baby leaves such as spinach or arugula: these add a tender bite and a nutritional boost choose young, unblemished leaves
- Peach: adds a sweet juicy pop that pairs well with the tart dressing select peaches that yield gently to touch
- Cherries: for tartness and deep color pick plump firm cherries
- Avocado: brings creaminess and healthy fats choose avocados that feel just slightly soft to the touch
- Mixed seeds: pumpkin sunflower flax seeds add nutty crunch and lasting energy use seeds that are fresh with no off smell
- Heirloom cherry tomatoes: lend sweet acidity and extra color aim for tomatoes that are deeply colored and slightly soft but not mushy
- Croutons: give hearty crunch homemade or bakery-style croutons offer the best texture
- Olive oil: for the dressing go for extra virgin olive oil with a mild peppery flavor
- Fresh lemon juice: brightens the entire salad choose juicy lemons with thin skins
- Honey: rounds out the tartness with gentle sweetness pick honey with a floral undertone for more dimension
- Dijon mustard: gives the dressing a savory kick opt for smooth creamy Dijon with good aroma
- Poppy seeds: provide crunch and a light nutty taste ensure seeds are fresh by smelling them for any rancidity
- Salt and pepper: season and heighten all the flavors use high-quality sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Greens:
- Rinse and thoroughly dry your lettuce and baby greens then chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place both greens into a large roomy salad bowl to allow easy tossing without bruising
- Layer the Fruit and Avocado:
- Add in the sliced peach halved cherries and sliced avocado arrange them evenly over the greens so every forkful gets some fruit and creaminess
- Add Crunch and Color:
- Scatter the mixed seeds and halved heirloom cherry tomatoes over the salad then finish with a generous handful of croutons for texture
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or a jar with a tight lid pour in the olive oil fresh lemon juice honey and Dijon mustard whisk together vigorously or close the lid and shake until the mixture looks creamy and well blended
- Add Poppy Seeds and Season:
- Stir in the poppy seeds then taste and add salt and pepper as needed whisk or shake again to ensure an even distribution of poppy seeds through the dressing
- Dress and Toss:
- Just before serving drizzle the dressing slowly over the entire salad then gently toss with large utensils to coat every ingredient evenly being careful not to mash the avocado
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My absolute favorite part is slicing into a market fresh peach its sunny flavor makes this salad extra special and always brings back memories of picnics in my grandmother’s backyard surrounded by fruit trees
Storage Tips
Store the undressed salad in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to two days though the croutons and avocado are best added fresh. Keep the dressing separately in a jar and shake it before using. If prepping ahead for a gathering wait to slice the avocado until just before serving to prevent browning.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap in whatever market gems you find such as nectarines instead of peaches strawberries or blueberries for cherries or even thinly sliced cucumbers for extra crunch. Goat cheese or feta crumbles can be added for more protein and tang. Replace the honey in the dressing with maple syrup for a vegan option.
Serving Suggestions
This salad stands alone as a light lunch but also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken simple seared fish or even a crusty slice of bread. For a more festive meal sprinkle with a little feta or serve alongside cold sliced eggs for a filling brunch spread.
Seasonal Stories
Farmer’s market salads were always a big part of my summers growing up and now I love making a ritual of choosing the brightest most exciting produce. Every salad feels a bit different depending on what is in season and that is what keeps it fresh and fun all year long.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What fruits work best in this salad?
Peach and cherries add sweetness and color, but berries or sliced apples can be delicious alternatives.
- → Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, assemble the greens and toppings ahead of time, but wait to add the dressing until just before serving.
- → Is the lemon poppy seed dressing dairy-free?
Yes, this dressing contains olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon, and poppy seeds—no dairy included.
- → Are there protein options to add?
Grilled chicken, fish, or a boiled egg make tasty protein boosts. Sprinkle in feta cheese if desired.
- → How can I make it more filling?
Top with extra seeds, nuts, cheese, or serve alongside grilled proteins for a satisfying meal.