Cherry & Peach Pasta Salad with Feta

This is not your average pasta salad. Bright, fruity, and full of flavor, Cherry & Peach Pasta Salad with Feta is like summer in a bowl. Sweet cherries and juicy peaches bring the freshness, salty feta adds a creamy tang, and tender pasta ties it all together. It’s sweet, savory, and surprisingly addicting.

Whether you’re heading to a backyard BBQ, planning a picnic, or just want a vibrant side dish that feels like sunshine, this salad is a total showstopper. And did I mention it’s ridiculously easy to throw together?

Why You’ll Love Cherry & Peach Pasta Salad with Feta
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Like that first bite where the fruit, feta, and pasta all swirl together perfectly. Or watching your guests take a scoop and then immediately go back for more.

Sweet + savory flavor explosion – Every bite is balanced and bold.

Beautiful and vibrant – It looks as fresh as it tastes.

Perfect for warm-weather gatherings – Light, refreshing, and unique.

Easy to customize – Use whatever fresh fruit or pasta you have on hand.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Want to nail this dish on your very first try? Here are some insider secrets…

Use firm peaches and sweet cherries – You want fruit that holds its shape.

Cook your pasta al dente – So it doesn’t get mushy when tossed with dressing.

Chill before serving – The flavors meld and taste even better cold.

Toss gently – To keep the fruit from breaking apart.

Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this refreshing summer salad:

1. For the Salad:
   8 oz pasta (bowtie, rotini, or penne work great)

1 1/2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved

1 large peach, diced (or 2 small peaches)

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pecans or slivered almonds for crunch

2. For the Dressing:
   3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp white balsamic vinegar (or honey vinegar)

1 tsp honey or maple syrup

1/2 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece…

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cool water. Let it cool completely.
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherries, peaches, red onion, and feta cheese.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Stir in fresh basil and toasted nuts (if using).
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Texture & Flavor Secrets
This salad is a feast for the senses. You’ve got:

Creamy crumbles of feta

Juicy bites of fresh fruit

Tender pasta

A slight crunch from onion and nuts

A sweet and tangy dressing that ties everything together

The mix of flavors and textures keeps every bite interesting and delicious.

How to Serve Cherry & Peach Pasta Salad with Feta
Serve it cold, straight from the fridge. It’s the perfect side for:

Grilled chicken, pork, or salmon

Summer potlucks and picnics

Light lunch with a glass of iced tea or lemonade

Serve in a big, beautiful bowl garnished with extra basil and feta on top for presentation.

Creative Leftover Transformations
Don’t let leftovers go to waste! You can…

Stuff it into a wrap with spinach for a fruity summer lunch.

Toss it with arugula or greens to stretch it into a dinner salad.

Serve it with avocado slices and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips…

Make it vegan – Just skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

Add protein – Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even cooked quinoa work great.

Switch the fruit – Try nectarines, strawberries, or blueberries if that’s what you have.

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)
Want to wow your guests?

Serve in a wide, shallow bowl with extra basil leaves on top.

Drizzle with a bit more balsamic glaze just before serving.

Add edible flowers or microgreens for a garden-fresh look.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen fruit?
   Fresh is best for texture, but thawed and well-drained frozen fruit can work in a pinch.
2. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
   Up to 3 days, though it’s best within 24 hours for peak freshness.
3. Can I make it ahead?
   Yes! Make the salad and dressing separately, then toss together just before serving.
4. What type of pasta works best?
   Short pasta like bowtie, fusilli, or rotini holds the dressing and mixes well with the fruit.
5. Can I use canned peaches?
   Yes, but drain them well and use ones packed in juice, not syrup.
6. How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?
   Rinse it with cold water after draining and toss with a little oil before chilling.
7. Can I use goat cheese instead of feta?
   Absolutely—goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy touch.
8. How can I make this more filling?
   Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a handful of white beans for protein.
9. Is this gluten-free?
   Only if you use gluten-free pasta—everything else is naturally gluten-free.
10. Can I make it spicy?
    Yes! Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for heat.

Conclusion
Cherry & Peach Pasta Salad with Feta is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. It’s the kind of side dish that turns heads and has people asking for the recipe after just one bite. Light enough for summer, bold enough to stand on its own, and easy enough to whip up anytime—this one’s a keeper. Add it to your warm-weather rotation and get ready for those oohs and aahs at every picnic, potluck, or sunny afternoon lunch.

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