Peach and Cucumber Salad with Toasted Peanuts and Tamari Dressing

This vibrant salad blends the sweetness of ripe peaches with the crisp texture of cucumbers and the nutty crunch of toasted peanuts, all dressed in a zesty tamari-lime dressing. It’s a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings or as a light, flavorful meal on its own.

Ingredients:

• 1 lime, for zest and juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ginger, peeled and finely chopped
• 2 ounces salted peanuts
• 1/2 ounce tamari soy sauce
• 3 large peaches
• 2 scallions
• 1 large package grape or cherry tomatoes
• 1 cucumber
• 1/4 ounce fresh cilantro
• Kosher salt & ground pepper
• Sugar

Directions:

1. Prepare the Lime and Peanuts:
• Zest the lime to get 1/2 teaspoon and squeeze to obtain 1 tablespoon of juice.
• In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 teaspoons oil. Toast the peanuts until lightly browned, about 1–2 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, mix with 1/4 teaspoon of the garlic and lime zest, and season with salt. Set aside.

1. Make the Dressing:

• In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, remaining lime zest, tamari, chopped ginger, remaining garlic, and 2 teaspoons sugar until sugar dissolves. Whisk in 2 1/2 tablespoons oil, and season with salt and pepper.

1. Cook the Peaches:

• Reheat the same skillet over medium-high with 1 tablespoon oil. Season halved and pitted peaches with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned, about 3–4 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter.

1. Assemble the Salad:

• Thinly slice scallions and halve tomatoes. Halve the cucumber lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and slice into half-moons.
• Scatter tomatoes, cucumbers, and scallions over the peaches. Sprinkle with half of the toasted peanuts and coarsely chopped cilantro.

1. Finish and Serve:

• Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad. Garnish with the remaining peanuts and cilantro.

Tips:

• Ensure the peaches are ripe for the best flavor.
• Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the dressing according to your taste.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this salad as a standalone dish or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• It's perfect for a summer picnic or as a refreshing side at a barbecue.