14 May, 2024

7 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Halloumi Cheese

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When it comes to the world of cheese, halloumi cheese easily steals the show – it’s firm, it’s delicious, and it can be cooked in so many different ways. Whether you're in the mood for grilled cheese or raw cheese, halloumi is the perfect choice. And on top of all that, its salty flavor makes it a great addition to a variety of different side dishes.

If you're looking to take your halloumi game to the next level, we've got your backs. Here are the top seven side dishes that go perfectly well with halloumi cheese:

1. Tomato Zaatar Soup

Tomato Zaatar Soup is a delicious side dish that goes really well with halloumi cheese. This soup is made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices, including zaatar, a Middle Eastern spice blend that is made up of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds. The zaatar's nutty flavor pairs well with fried bite-sized halloumi cheese.

2. Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes & Mint

Pasta with cherry tomatoes and mint is the perfect side dish to pair with halloumi cheese. This delicious dish combines the salty, savory flavor of halloumi with the freshness of mint and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.

Simply cook your favorite pasta according to the package directions, and when it’s done, toss it with a mixture of cherry tomatoes, fresh mint, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve it alongside your grilled halloumi cheese and watch your taste buds go on an adventure!

3. Couscous Salad

Not only is couscous salad delicious and easy to make, but it also pairs perfectly with halloumi cheese. To start, boil one cup of couscous in two cups of water. Once cooked, toss in tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Top it off with a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing. Serve it with grilled or fried halloumi on top or on the side.

4. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with halloumi cheese. It is made by cooking rice in a flavorful broth and a variety of herbs, spices, and vegetables. To start, sauté some onions, garlic, and other veggies in a pan. Once soft, add the rice and cook until tender. Add a flavorful broth, herbs, and spices, and serve with fried or grilled halloumi.

5. Grilled Vegetables

Grilling vegetables is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. When served alongside halloumi cheese, grilled vegetables are an irresistible combination. Try grilling eggplant, bell peppers, asparagus, mushrooms, or zucchini to serve alongside halloumi cheese until they are tender and lightly charred. Grilled vegetables provide a great contrast in texture and their smokiness pairs perfectly with grilled halloumi cheese.

6. Roasted Potatoes

Roasted potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish to serve with halloumi cheese. To make, cut potatoes into wedges or cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, the perfect addition to fried halloumi cheese.

7. Sweet Chili Mayo

Nothing goes better with fried halloumi cheese than a delicious dipping sauce. Sweet chili mayo is a simple dipping sauce that will take your cheese platter to the next level. To make, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice in a bowl. The mayo provides the creamy texture, the sweet chili sauce adds a bit of sweetness and a hint of heat, and the lime juice brings it all together with a bright acidity.

Halloumi cheese is the salty partner you’ve been looking for

Halloumi cheese is a delicious addition to any meal, thanks to its salty and savory flavor. So wait no longer, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy the deliciousness of halloumi!

Are you looking for premium dairy products? If so, Baladna is your best option. We are the leading dairy company in Qatar, offering an extensive range of products including fresh milk, cheese, yoghurt, and cream. Our dairy products have become staples in many households in Qatar due to their high quality and taste. Whether you are looking for halloumi, feta cheese, or any other cheese, we are the perfect choice. Browse through our list of cheeses today!

10 October, 2024

Discover the Benefits of Yoghurt as a Staple in Your Diet

Yoghurt has been consumed by humans for thousands of years. It is a delicious and nutritious food that is rich in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. In recent years, yoghurt has become increasingly popular as a staple in many people’s diets, thanks to its many health benefits. If you wish to improve your overall health and well-being, then adding yoghurt to your daily diet could be an excellent step in the right direction. This article discusses the various benefits of yoghurt and why you should consider making it a regular part of your diet.Appreciating yoghurtYoghurt is a fermented dairy product made by adding live bacteria cultures to milk. The bacteria convert lactose, the natural sugar in milk, into lactic acid, which gives yoghurt its tangy flavor and thick texture. Yoghurt can be made from various types of milk, including cow, goat, sheep, and even plant-based alternatives like soy and almond milk.Yoghurt is nutrient-denseYoghurt is a nutrient-dense food, which means it contains a high amount of essential nutrients with relatively few calories. A typical eight-ounce serving of plain yoghurt provides the following:Calories: 149Fat: 8gSodium: 113mgCarbohydrates: 11.4gFiber: 0gSugars: 11.4gProtein: 8.5gPhosphorus: 233 mgCalcium: 296mgRiboflavin: 0.34mgYoghurt is also a fantastic source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that reside in our gut and promote digestive health. Probiotics can help improve bowel regularity, boost the immune system, and alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.It can help with weight managementYoghurt can be an effective food for weight management because it is high in protein and low in calories. Protein is a satiating nutrient that can help you feel full and satisfied, which can prevent overeating and snacking between meals. The calcium in yoghurt can help regulate metabolism and reduce the amount of fat absorbed by the body. Studies have shown that including yoghurt in your diet can help with weight loss and weight maintenance. In one study, overweight women who ate yoghurt as part of a reduced-calorie diet lost significantly more weight than those who didn’t consume yoghurt.It can improve bone healthCalcium, which is necessary for maintaining strong and healthy bones, is abundant in yoghurt. The main mineral that forms bones is calcium, and a lack of it can cause osteoporosis, which is characterized by brittle and frail bones.The vitamin D in yoghurt can help the body absorb calcium more efficiently. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally found in a few foods, including fatty fish, egg yolks, and mushrooms that have been exposed to sunlight. However, most people get their vitamin D from fortified foods or supplements.It is versatile and deliciousAs a versatile food, yoghurt can be consumed in a variety of ways. It may be consumed unflavored or with the addition of fruit, honey, or other natural sweeteners. It can also serve as the foundation for sauces, dressings, dips, and smoothies.Greek yoghurt, which is strained to remove the whey, is thicker and creamier than regular yoghurt and contains more protein. It can be used in recipes that require a thicker consistency, such as cheesecake, muffins, and pancakes.It is a convenient and portable snackYoghurt is a convenient and portable snack that can be enjoyed on the go. It can be packed in a lunchbox or kept in the office fridge for a quick and easy snack. Yoghurt cups and drinkable yoghurt bottles are also available in most grocery stores and vending machines.Embrace the goodness with Baladna yoghurt Whether you prefer Greek, plain, or flavored yoghurt, ensuring that it is a regular part of your diet can help you reap the many benefits it has to offer. So, why not add a serving of yoghurt to your daily eating routine and enjoy the many benefits yoghurt has to offer?Get your daily yoghurt serving with Baladna! We ensure consumers’ wellness by providing natural, nutritious, and tasty foods and beverages while maintaining the most rigorous food safety and biosecurity protocols. Get your delicious yoghurt now!

14 May, 2024

Superfood Spotlight: The Health Benefits of Eating Yoghurt

Everyone knows food is essential for our health. Without nutritious food, we would not be able to maintain our health and energy levels needed for daily function. For this reason, we are all encouraged to eat healthy food and, as much as possible, avoid unhealthy options such as processed and fast food. Many foods are rich in nutrients, and yoghurt is no exception.Yoghurt is a product made from milk that has been fermented with lactic acid bacteria. This process gives yoghurt its unique flavor and creamy texture. Additionally, the fermentation process helps increase the nutritional content of yoghurt. It is considered a healthier alternative to other sweet treats, particularly ice cream, and is packed with essential nutrients to keep the body running. However, many people do not know that eating yoghurt as part of a diet goes a long way, so we will discuss some of the benefits below:The health benefits of yoghurtYoghurt is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins. It is full of essential amino acids and protein building blocks. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. Yoghurt is also high in calcium - which is great for healthy bones and teeth. Many yoghurts are fortified with additional vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and B12, which are essential for various bodily functions.Yoghurt also contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help improve digestion. Probiotics can help improve the balance of good bacteria in the gut and are believed to help reduce the risk of certain illnesses, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, yoghurt can help boost the immune system, as it contains beneficial bacteria and other compounds that can help fight off infections.Is there a right time for eating yoghurt?The great thing about yoghurt is that it can be eaten at any time. However, there are certain times that experts recommend consuming yoghurt, such as:Breakfast: Yoghurt is an excellent breakfast choice as it is a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics. It can be eaten on its own or topped with fruit and nuts for added flavor and nutrition.As a dessert after your meal: Yoghurt is a great way to satisfy a sweet tooth without all the calories and fat of regular desserts. Even if you're not a yoghurt fan, you can mix it with fruit, honey, and nuts to create a delicious and healthy after-meal treat.As a snack: Yoghurt makes for a great snack in between meals. It is an excellent source of protein and calcium and can help keep you full until your next meal.When traveling: Yoghurt is a great snack to take with you when traveling. It is lightweight and easy to store and can help prevent hunger pangs when you're on the go.Choosing the right yoghurtNot all yoghurts are created equal, and when it comes to choosing the right yoghurt for your diet, there are a few things to consider. To help you with this, here are some helpful tips:1. Know your yoghurt preferencesFirst, consider your preferences. Do you like plain or flavored yoghurt? Do you prefer Greek or Icelandic yoghurt? Do you want a low-fat or full-fat variant? Your choices matter when picking the right yoghurt, so choose wisely.2. Choose unsweetened or unflavored yoghurtYoghurt is a healthy snack, so choose unsweetened and unflavored varieties. Avoid yoghurts that contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners because these can be unhealthy and add unnecessary calories.3. Choose a yoghurt with just the right amount of proteinProteins are essential for muscle growth and repair and help keep you feeling full. Look for yoghurts that contain at least 10 to 15 grams of protein per serving to satisfy your appetite and provide you with essential nutrients.4. Look for live culturesLook for yoghurts that contain live cultures, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium. These cultures help break down lactose, a sugar variant found in dairy products. They also help keep your digestive system healthy.Fuel your body with the creamy goodness of yoghurt Yoghurt is an excellent choice for those leading a healthy lifestyle, so incorporating it into your diet is recommended. Many yoghurt variants are available, so it is only a matter of finding the one that best suits your taste. If you are looking for high quality yoghurt, Baladna has what you need! We offer various selections in different flavors as well as other dairy products, such as cheese, milk, and juices, for affordable prices.

24 June, 2025

Grilled Halloumi Cheese: Perfectly Delicious Recipes

Halloumi cheese is loved around the world for its unique texture and salty flavor. Originating from Cyprus, this semi-hard cheese stands out because it doesn’t melt when grilled. Instead, it develops a golden, crispy outside with a soft, chewy center. Whether you’ve enjoyed halloumi before or are just getting started, learning to grill it perfectly will take your meals to the next level.How to Grill HalloumiGrilling halloumi is simple and quick. Here’s how to get it just right:Heat the Grill or Pan: Preheat your grill or pan so it’s nice and hot. This will help the halloumi get that perfect sear.Slice the Halloumi: Cut the cheese into thick slices, about 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. Thicker slices stay firm, while thinner slices may fall apart.Oil It (Optional): While halloumi doesn’t require oil, brushing it with a little olive oil can add flavor and prevent sticking.Grill It: Place the slices directly on the grill or pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden-brown.Serve Immediately: Grilled halloumi tastes best when it’s hot and fresh. Enjoy it right off the grill for the best texture and flavor.Grilled Halloumi Recipe InsposOnce you’ve grilled your halloumi, there are endless ways to enjoy it. Here are a few easy ideas:1. Grilled Halloumi SaladToss your grilled halloumi into a fresh salad with kale, tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley, and quinoa. Drizzle a lemon-orange dressing over the top for a zesty touch. The salty halloumi pairs perfectly with the crisp veggies, creating a deliciously balanced meal.2. Halloumi SkewersThread grilled halloumi onto skewers along with bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Grill until lightly charred and serve with a side of hummus for dipping. The combination of smoky veggies and salty cheese makes for a flavorful, easy-to-eat snack.3. Halloumi and Avocado ToastUpgrade your avocado toast by adding slices of grilled halloumi on top. The creamy avocado and salty halloumi make for a satisfying snack or light meal that’s perfect for any time of day.4. Halloumi BurgersReplace the usual burger patty with a slice of grilled halloumi in your next burger. Top it with roasted veggies and a garlic red pepper aioli for a flavorful and delicious twist on the classic burger.5. Grilled Halloumi with Pesto CiabattaTake your grilled halloumi and toasted ciabatta and spread a generous amount of pesto on each half. Layer the grilled halloumi on the bottom half, add a handful of fresh arugula or spinach, and top with the other half of the ciabatta. For extra flavor, you can add sliced tomatoes, sundried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers. Final ThoughtsGrilled halloumi is a delicious and easy way to elevate your meals. Try Baladna Halloumi today and enjoy the simple pleasure of perfectly grilled halloumi!

16 January, 2023

All You Need to Know About Feta: Ways to Eat & Store It

Cheese is a versatile and beloved food enjoyed in many cuisines worldwide. It can be used in various dishes, such as sandwiches or grated over pasta, or eaten alone with crackers. Still, not all cheeses are created equal, and feta cheese is a prime example!Feta cheese hails from Greece and is a crumbly, salty cheese made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk. With its unique tangy taste, it is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, where it's often paired with olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and other vegetables. Unlike other cheeses, feta cheese requires specific handling and storage to maintain its distinctive flavor and texture. Unfortunately, few people know how to properly store and serve feta cheese, so we're here to help. How Feta Cheese Is Made Feta cheese is a unique and beloved cheese that originates from Greece. It's made by combining sheep's or goat's milk with rennet and salt. The rennet enzyme helps solidify the milk, forming a curd, which is then cut into small pieces and left to drain. After that, the cheese is placed in a brine solution that preserves it and gives it its signature salty taste.Typically, feta cheese is ready to be eaten after a few days, but some varieties are aged for several months. Aging gives the cheese a firmer texture and a more complex flavor. During this time, the cheese is stored in a brine solution and regularly turned to ensure even distribution of flavors. Storing Feta Cheese For maximum freshness; Feta cheese should be stored in the fridge in an airtight container, with the brine being changed every few days. If you're not going to eat it within a few days, put it in the freezer for longer-term storage, where it can last for up to 6 months. This also goes for cooked feta dishes, like pasta or salads, which will stay good for up to 5 days. Pairing Feta with FoodFeta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can improve many recipes' flavors. It can be included in many dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Also, it goes well with veggies like onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Feta mixes superbly with ricotta and mozzarella, among other cheeses. Although feta's sour flavor may not be the best complement for fruit, watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew pair nicely with it. Furthermore, feta goes well with many sauces and can be added as a topping to pizza or spaghetti.Things to Avoid When Serving FetaWhen serving feta cheese, there are certain things you should never do. These include:1. Serve Spoiled Feta Serving rotten feta cheese is a major no-no, which should go without saying. Feta cheese needs to be kept in brine to stay fresh and prevent rotting. It will spoil and need to be thrown away if kept out of the fridge for an extended period of time. Make sure you only provide the freshest feta cheese to satisfy your guests' taste buds. 2. Cut Feta with Your Hands It is advised to use a knife rather than your hands to cut or cube the feta cheese to reduce any potential danger of bacterial contamination. This straightforward advice will guarantee accurate portioning and assist in preserving the cheese's quality and freshness.3. Avoid Serving Feta at the End of the Meal Feta cheese etiquette dictates that it should not be served at the end of the meal. Feta is a strong-flavored cheese, and its taste can be overpowering if served after other dishes. Because of this, it should be served alongside other dishes or as an appetizer.Is your feta knowledge betta now? Feta is a delicious cheese that can be enjoyed in a variety of different ways. While typically served as an appetizer, it can also be eaten with other dishes. When eating feta, one must be mindful of feta cheese etiquette to enjoy it to the fullest.If you’re looking for the best feta cheese, Baladna has what you need! We offer selections made with the finest quality ingredients, all for affordable prices. Visit our website today and take your pick!