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!

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!

26 June, 2025

Perfect Feta Cheese Pairings for Every Occasion

Feta cheese, with its crumbly texture and tangy flavor, is a beloved ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Its versatility makes it suitable for a number of dishes — from salads to pastries, and even as a standalone snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a simple family meal, here are some perfect pairings for feta cheese that will surely leave you and your guests impressed: 1. Fresh SaladsFeta cheese is a natural fit for salads, adding a creamy texture and a burst of flavor. Combine it with fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding kalamata olives and roasted bell peppers. The salty and tangy feta complements the crispness of the vegetables perfectly.2. Mediterranean Mezze PlatterCreate a delightful mezze platter featuring Baladna Premium Feta alongside an assortment of olives, hummus, roasted eggplant, and warm pita bread. This combination is perfect for entertaining guests, allowing them to mix and match flavors. 3. Savory PastriesFeta cheese can add depth and flavor to various baked goods. Try mixing it with spinach and herbs for a delicious filling in savory pastries like spanakopita or rakakat jebneh. The flaky pastry and creamy feta create a delightful contrast in texture that will impress your guests.4. Roasted VegetablesRoasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, and adding feta cheese enhances their flavor. Toss seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender. Crumble Baladna Premium Feta on top just before serving for a tangy finish that complements the sweetness of the vegetables.5. Pasta DishesFeta cheese can be a wonderful addition to both cold and hot pasta dishes. In a cold pasta salad, mix cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, basil, and a generous sprinkle of feta. For a warm dish, toss cooked pasta with sautéed spinach, garlic, and feta for a quick and tasty meal that is sure to satisfy.A Final Note on FetaWhether you're preparing a light salad, a hearty pasta dish, or a savory pastry, Baladna Premium Feta can elevate your meals with its rich flavor and creamy texture.

13 May, 2024

Is Mozzarella Cheese Healthy? We’ve Got Your Answer

Mozzarella cheese is a type of cheese that is popular in Italian cuisine. It is made from cow's milk and is one of the most popular cheeses used in pizza, lasagna, and other Italian dishes. Many people are curious if mozzarella cheese is a healthy food choice, and the answer is that it can be! Let's learn more about this:It's a good source of proteinMozzarella is a great source of protein, providing 8 grams per one-ounce serving. This makes it a great choice for people looking to increase their protein intake. Protein plays an important role in building and maintaining muscle, and it's also essential for healthy skin, bones, and organs. Eating mozzarella can help you meet your protein needs without having to rely on other animal proteins such as beef or chicken.It's a good source of many essential minerals Mozzarella is rich in essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Calcium, crucial for strong teeth and bones, prevents decay and gum disease. Selenium in mozzarella protects cells, reduces inflammation, and supports the immune system, benefiting cognitive function. Additionally, the cheese boasts high Vitamin A content, promoting healthy eyes, skin, teeth, and gums, while aiding in new bone cell growth.It has less sodium than most other cheeses One of the most significant benefits of mozzarella cheese is that it has less sodium than most other cheeses. Sodium is an important mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, as well as fluid balance in the body. When consumed in excess, it can lead to a number of health problems, including hypertension and stroke. By choosing a low-sodium cheese like mozzarella, you can rest assured that you won’t be overloading your body with sodium.It's lower in saturated fatSaturated fats are types of fats that can raise cholesterol levels in the body and increase the risk of heart disease. However, mozzarella has a significantly lower amount of saturated fat than other cheeses. A single serving of regular mozzarella cheese (about 1.5 ounces) contains just 3.5 grams of saturated fat, compared to 7.5 grams in a serving of cheddar cheese. This makes mozzarella an excellent choice for those who need to watch their saturated fat intake.How much mozzarella should you eat in a day? If you’re looking to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your diet, mozzarella cheese is a great choice. But how much mozzarella should you eat each day?The answer really depends on your individual health needs and goals. For most healthy adults, the recommended daily intake of cheese is around 1.5 ounces. This amount provides a good balance between the health benefits of cheese and the potential risks associated with too much cheese.When it comes to mozzarella cheese specifically, 1.5 ounces is a good guideline. This amount provides around 100 calories, 7 grams of protein, and 6 grams of fat. It’s also a great source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12.If you’re looking for a little extra flavor and nutrition, you could add a few slices of mozzarella to your salads, sandwiches, or pizzas. You could also use mozzarella cheese to make delicious homemade pizzas, calzones, and even grilled cheese sandwiches.For those who are trying to lose weight, it’s important to keep in mind that cheese can be high in calories and fat. So if you’re trying to cut back on calories, you may want to limit your portion sizes.Say mozzarella!Mozzarella cheese can be considered a healthy food option when eaten in moderation. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, and is lower in fat and sodium than many other cheese varieties. That said, it is important to remember that consuming too much of any food, even one as healthy as mozzarella, can lead to weight gain and other health issues. It's also vital that you get your mozzarella cheese from a trusted dairy and beverage company like Baladna.Baladna cheese, including mozzarella, is fresh and high quality. Baladna is among the biggest cattle farms with about 24000 cows that are kept in a well-conditioned environment to ensure only the best dairy products. Try Baladna mozzarella cheese and other products today!

29 October, 2024

The Incredible Soft Cheese: Understanding Labneh

In recent years, the culinary world has seen a surge in the popularity of Middle Eastern cuisine, with dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma becoming mainstays in many foodie circles. However, there is one Middle Eastern delight that remains a best-kept secret to many: labneh. This versatile, creamy, and tangy yoghurt-based delight is a staple in many Middle Eastern households and is slowly leaving its mark on taste buds around the globe. Today, we will delve into the world of labneh, talking about what it is, how it's made, and how you can enjoy it in various recipes. For starters, what is labneh? Labneh, also known as labna, labni, or lebni, is a soft cheese made from strained yoghurt. It is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly in Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, and Syria. Labneh has a thick and creamy texture, similar to Greek yoghurt or sour cream, but with a slightly tangier taste. It is often used as a spread, dip, or topping and can be found in both savory and sweet dishes.How is labneh made?Labneh is made by straining yoghurt to remove the whey, which results in a thicker and creamier consistency. The process is quite simple and can easily be done at home. Here's a basic recipe for making your own labneh:Ingredients:4 cups of plain yoghurt (preferably full-fat)1 teaspoon of saltInstructions:Mix the yoghurt and salt together in a bowl.Line a sieve or colander with a cheesecloth or a clean, thin kitchen towel, and place it over a large bowl.Pour the yoghurt mixture into the lined sieve and cover with the cloth's edges.Place the bowl in the refrigerator and let the yoghurt strain for at least 24 hours or until it reaches your desired consistency. The longer it strains, the thicker and creamier the labneh will be.Once the labneh is ready, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The labneh will last for up to two weeks.How to enjoy labnehLabneh is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some ideas for incorporating this delicious Middle Eastern secret into your culinary repertoire:1. As a dipMix labneh with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (such as mint or parsley), olive oil, and a pinch of salt for a delicious and healthy dip. Serve with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or crackers.2. As a spreadSpread labneh on toast, bagels, or sandwiches as a tangy alternative to cream cheese. 3. In saladsMix a bit of labneh with lemon juice, olive oil, and spices to create a creamy salad dressing.4. In bakingUse labneh as a substitute for sour cream or yoghurt in recipes for cakes, muffins, pancakes, or other baked goods.5. As a dessertSweeten labneh with honey or sugar and serve it with fresh fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of honey for a light and delicious dessert.6. As a toppingFinally, use labneh as a topping for grilled or roasted vegetables, meat, or fish dishes for added creaminess and flavor.Enjoy labneh today!Labneh is undoubtedly one of the Middle East's best-kept secrets, offering a unique combination of tangy flavor and creamy texture that can elevate any dish. Whether you're looking to expand your culinary horizons or simply searching for a tasty and versatile ingredient to add to your creations, give labneh a try and discover the delightful world of Middle Eastern cuisine.Baladna delivers genuine, fresh, and top-notch dairy products courtesy of our farm, which is home to 24,000 cows. The excellent environment of the farm ensures the production of superior quality dairy products. If you are looking for the best labneh, check out our offerings by visiting our website.