Cheese And Salad: Perfect Pairing For A Delicious Dish

Adding cheese to a salad is a great way to boost its flavour and nutrition. While there are many types of cheese that can be added to a salad, not all cheeses are suitable. For example, soft and creamy cheeses like Brie are too buttery and soft to be added to a salad. Instead, you should opt for a cheese that can be crumbled, shredded, or cubed, adding substance and a contrasting texture to the greens.

Mozzarella, burrata, and feta: which cheese goes with which salad?

Mozzarella, burrata, and feta are all popular choices for salads, but each has its own distinct characteristics and work best with different combinations.

Mozzarella is a soft Italian cheese that can be made from cow or water buffalo milk. It is a versatile cheese that can be shredded, cubed, or left in small round balls known as Bocconcini. A classic combination is a tomato, cucumber, and mozzarella salad, often served with avocado, red onion, and basil. This salad is light and refreshing, making it a perfect summer dish.

Burrata is a type of mozzarella with a unique feature. It is formed into a pouch and then filled with soft, stringy curd (stracciatella) and cream. This gives it a creamy texture and a more indulgent taste. A burrata salad is often served with croutons, avocado, tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. The cheese itself is so special that it deserves a memorable salad to match.

Feta is a Middle Eastern classic, often made from sheep's milk in eastern Europe and the Middle East. It is a tangy, salty cheese that pairs exceptionally well with extra virgin olive oil. Feta is an essential ingredient in a Greek salad, which typically includes cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onions, olives, and a simple dressing. Feta can also be used in more creative combinations, such as a Mediterranean chickpea salad.

In summary, while all three cheeses can be used in various salads, they each bring something different to the table. Mozzarella is versatile and light, burrata is indulgent and special, and feta is tangy and salty. Choose the cheese that best suits the overall flavour profile and texture you want to achieve in your salad.

Melting cheeses vs. hard cheeses

When it comes to choosing a cheese for your salad, you have a variety of options, from melting cheeses to harder varieties. But what exactly defines a melting cheese, and how does it differ from a hard cheese?

Melting Cheeses

Melting cheeses are those that, as the name suggests, melt easily and are known for their gooey, stretchy qualities. These cheeses typically have a higher moisture content, which is key to achieving that desirable melt. The fat content, acidity, and age of the cheese also play a role, with younger, fresher cheeses often melting better due to their softer texture.

Some examples of melting cheeses include:

• Mozzarella: A classic pizza topping, mozzarella is known for its supple, stretchy texture and mild flavour. It has a lower melting point, making it ideal for adding a fatty, gooey layer to salads.
• Provolone: This cheese softens into a ropy, chewy texture when melted and has a nutty flavour.
• Gruyère: A Swiss cheese with a gloriously smooth texture when heated, making it perfect for French onion soup or cheese fondue.
• Fontina: A smooth, mild, savoury cheese that melts exceptionally well.
• Raclette: This Swiss or French cheese is designed to be melted and served over boiled potatoes, but it can also add a creamy, fruity note to salads.
• Gouda: A younger, semi-hard gouda melts well and has a sweet and earthy flavour.

Hard Cheeses

Hard cheeses, on the other hand, are drier and more aged. They typically have lower moisture content and are firmer in texture, making them ideal for crumbling, shredding, or cubing.

Some examples of hard cheeses include:

• Feta: A popular choice for Greek salad, feta is a salty, tangy goat's or mixed-milk cheese that can be crumbled over salads.
• Parmesan: With its nutty, salty flavour and semi-hard texture, parmesan is a versatile cheese that can be grated or shaved over salads.
• Cheddar: While sharp cheddar may be overpowering in a salad, milder varieties can add a nice pop of colour and flavour to macaroni or pasta salads.
• Swiss Cheese: With its nutty flavour, Swiss cheese is a surprising but tasty addition to salads, especially when paired with crunchy vegetables.
• Cottage Cheese: A simple, healthy, and crumbly option that goes well with spices and even pickles.
• Halloumi: This semi-hard goat's milk cheese holds its shape well and is delicious grilled or pan-fried, adding a unique flavour to salads.

Using Melting Cheeses vs. Hard Cheeses in Salads

When choosing between a melting cheese and a hard cheese for your salad, consider the texture of your vegetables. Softer vegetables like eggplant and salad leaves can benefit from the salty, crumbly texture of a hard cheese like feta. On the other hand, firmer, crunchier veggies pair well with melting cheeses, creating a satisfying bite that combines the richness of the cheese with the crunch of the vegetables.

Why cheese is the perfect ingredient for salads

Cheese is the perfect ingredient to elevate a simple salad to a gourmet meal. It adds flavour, texture, and richness to the dish. The right cheese can enhance the taste of the other ingredients in the salad, creating a harmonious combination of flavours and textures.

Cheese also provides a nutritional boost to salads. It is a good source of protein and calcium, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

When choosing a cheese for your salad, consider the texture of the cheese and how it will pair with the other ingredients. For softer vegetables like eggplant, salad leaves, and onions, a semi-hard cheese like feta or halloumi can add a nice contrast. Feta is a popular choice for salads, as it has a salty, tangy flavour that goes well with extra-virgin olive oil and vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. Halloumi can be grilled or pan-fried, adding a warm, golden touch to your salad.

For firmer and crunchier vegetables, a melting cheese like mozzarella or cheddar can provide a gooey, fatty layer that combines the richness of the cheese with the crunchiness of the veggies. Mozzarella is a versatile cheese that can be used in just about any type of salad, and it is especially delicious in a Caprese salad with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic reduction. Cheddar, with its sharp, tangy flavour, pairs well with proteins like grilled chicken or warm bacon, making it a great choice for Cobb salads or hearty kale creations.

Other cheeses that go well in salads include Swiss cheese, with its nutty flavour and holey texture, and blue cheese, which has a rich, pungent aroma and intense, earthy flavour. These cheeses can add depth and complexity to your salad, making it a truly gourmet experience.

How to create harmony between milky and earthy flavours

Creating harmony between milky and earthy flavours in a salad is all about balancing the textures and flavours of the cheese and the vegetables.

Soft vegetables

For a bowl of soft vegetables like eggplant, salad leaves, onions, and peas, a semi-hard cheese like feta or halloumi can add a nice contrast in texture. The saltiness of these cheeses will also boost the overall flavour of the salad. If you're looking for something a little different, try a semi-soft blue cheese like Roquefort or Gorgonzola.

Firmer and crunchier veggies

For a more satisfying bite, pair firmer and crunchier veggies with melting cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or ricotta. The richness of the cheese combined with the crunchiness of the vegetables will create a delightful contrast. You can also use crumbly cheeses like cottage cheese or feta to similar effect.

Dressings

Don't forget about the salad dressing! A simple dressing made with vegetable oil, nut butter, balsamic vinegar, or yogurt can enhance the flavours of your salad and create a more hearty and fulfilling dish. If you're feeling adventurous, try making your own cheese-based dressing like a blue cheese dip or a cheddar cheese dressing.

When creating harmony between milky and earthy flavours in a salad, remember to consider the texture and flavour of both the cheese and the vegetables. Play around with different combinations to find what tastes best to you!

How to store salads with cheese

Salads with cheese are best stored in the refrigerator. However, there are several factors to consider when storing salads with cheese to ensure maximum freshness and flavour.

Firstly, it is important to note that not all cheeses are suitable for salads. Smooth and creamy cheeses like Brie, for instance, are too soft and buttery. Instead, opt for cheeses that can be crumbled, shredded, or cubed, such as Feta, Cheddar, or Swiss cheese. These provide a contrasting texture to the greens and a rich, tangy flavour.

When storing salads with cheese, it is recommended to keep the ingredients separate. Place the salad greens in a container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture and prevent wilting. Store this in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. For added protection, seal the container tightly or use a plastic bag, ensuring any excess air is removed.

Cheeses, along with other ingredients like berries, tomatoes, and cooked proteins, should be stored separately in their own containers. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy or spoiling prematurely. Aim to consume the salad within 48 hours for optimal freshness.

Additionally, avoid adding crispy toppings like croutons or fried items, as well as the salad dressing, until just before serving. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy and ensures a better texture.

For short-term storage, such as when preparing for a meal later in the day, loosely cover the salad with a damp towel and refrigerate. Add the dressing and any reserved ingredients, such as avocado or apple, just before serving.

By following these storage tips, you can prolong the freshness and flavour of your salad with cheese.

Frequently asked questions