When summer peaches are at their peak, I love folding them into savory dishes like this refreshing Peach Bacon Salad.
Sweet fruit, salty crisp bacon, and crunchy romaine come together under a bright lemon herb vinaigrette—it’s simple, beautiful, and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Perfect balance – Sweet peaches meet smoky bacon and tangy vinaigrette.
Quick and easy – Comes together in under 15 minutes.
Seasonal and vibrant – Great use for juicy summer peaches.
Customizable – Works as a side or topped with grilled chicken for a full meal.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Romaine lettuce – Adds crunch and body to the salad.
Fresh peaches – Ripe and juicy, cut into elegant wedges.
Crispy bacon – Smoky and salty for depth and contrast.
Cucumber – Refreshes and adds a cooling element.
Lemon juice & zest – The base of a lively vinaigrette.
Honey & herbs – Balance acidity with sweetness and fragrance.
Tips for Success
Use perfectly ripe peaches—they should yield slightly when gently squeezed.
Cook bacon until crisp for the best texture contrast.
Shake vinaigrette in a jar for quick emulsification and easy leftovers.
Add the vinaigrette right before serving to keep the greens crisp.
How to Make Peach Bacon Salad
Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or mason jar, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, pepper, honey, and chopped fresh thyme.
Whisk or shake until well combined.
Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients
Chop romaine lettuce, dice the cucumber, slice the peaches into wedges, and cook the bacon until crisp.
Let the bacon drain and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine romaine, cucumber, peach wedges, and bacon.
Step 4: Dress and Serve
Just before serving, pour the vinaigrette over the salad, toss gently, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Pair with crusty sourdough bread for a light lunch.
Add a crumble of goat cheese or feta for extra creaminess.
Great side dish for BBQs or summer picnics.
Variations & Substitutions
Swap romaine with arugula or spinach.
Use nectarines or plums instead of peaches.
Try maple syrup instead of honey for a fall twist.
Replace thyme with basil, tarragon, or mint for a new flavor profile.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Dressing: Store vinaigrette in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Salad: Prep components ahead but assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Leftovers can be stored for up to 1 day, but the texture may soften.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dressing?
Sure! A lemon vinaigrette or honey mustard works well, though homemade tastes fresher.
What kind of bacon should I use?
Smoked or thick-cut bacon adds more flavor, but any crispy bacon will work.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Omit bacon and honey. Add roasted chickpeas and use maple syrup instead.
Can I grill the peaches?
Absolutely—grilled peaches add a subtle smokiness and extra sweetness.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
It can be, especially if you reduce or omit the honey and watch fruit portions.
Can I prep this for a potluck?
Yes! Keep all ingredients separate and toss with dressing just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Peach Bacon Salad is everything I love about summer—light, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
The sweet-savory contrast is irresistible, and the lemon herb vinaigrette ties it all together beautifully.
It’s a dish that turns a handful of simple ingredients into something truly memorable.
