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!

01 September, 2024

An Intro To Feta Cheese & Why It Should Be Part Of Your Diet

Feta cheese is an aged, white cheese that has been around for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the area of Greece known as Macedonia, although it is now produced in numerous other countries worldwide. Feta cheese is made from sheep's milk, which gives it its distinctive flavor. It is also sometimes made from a combination of sheep's and goat's milk.The cheese is aged in a brine solution of salt, water, and vinegar, which gives feta its characteristic salty flavor. The brine also helps preserve the cheese and gives it a firmer texture. Once aged, feta cheese can be cut into cubes, crumbled, or sliced. It is often used as a topping for salads and pizzas, as well as in Greek dishes such as spanakopita.But, how much do you really know about feta cheese? We’re here to tell you: Why you should eat feta cheeseCalcium and B-12Feta cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Calcium can also help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and other age-related bone diseases. Feta cheese is also a good source of phosphorus, which is important for healthy bones, teeth, and muscles. In addition, feta cheese contains Vitamin B-12, which helps form red blood cells and helps maintain a healthy nervous system.ProteinFeta cheese is also a good source of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and maintenance. Eating feta cheese can help provide the necessary protein for a balanced diet. Feta cheese is also low in fat, with only around three to four grams of fat per one-ounce serving. This makes feta cheese an excellent choice for those trying to watch their fat intake.ProbioticsFeta cheese also contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help promote digestion and boost the immune system. Eating feta cheese can also help reduce inflammation in the body and can help protect against certain diseases.How to eat feta cheeseThere are many delicious ways to enjoy feta cheese. One of the most popular is to use it as a topping on salads or pizzas. Feta cheese pairs well with other ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and onions. It can also be added to sandwiches, wraps, and burgers for a delicious and salty twist.Another way to enjoy feta cheese is by making a dip. Feta cheese is often combined with herbs and spices like garlic, oregano, parsley, and red pepper flakes to create a delicious dip that can be served with chips, crackers, or vegetables. It can also be used as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. Feta cheese can also be used in baking. It can be added to muffins, scones, and other baked goods for a salty and tangy flavor.The best part about feta cheese is that it can be enjoyed as a snack on its own. Feta cheese is often cubed or crumbled and served with olives, tomatoes, and other vegetables. It can also be served with crackers and a drizzle of olive oil.The bottom lineFeta cheese is a delicious and nutritious food that can be enjoyed in various dishes. Eating feta cheese can help provide the body with the nutrients it needs while also adding a unique flavor to dishes.Baladna is 100% Qatari. We own one of the largest cattle farms in the region, spreading over an area of 2.6 million sqm. We provide authentic, fresh, and quality dairy products. If you are looking for delicious and high-quality food, Baladna products are the right choice for you. Check out our website for more information.

27 August, 2025

Here Are 4 Reasons Why Dairy Is Good for You

Are you ready to dive into the deliciously nutritious world of dairy? Get your spoons and straws ready because we are about to embark on a tour of the health benefits that dairy has to offer. From yoghurt and ayran to milk and cheese, there's a whole barn-load of goodness that we often take for granted. So why don't you join us as we milk this topic for all it's worth, and uncover the secrets that make dairy products not just tasty, but amazing for our health too!1. Calcium: The ultimate cheerleader for your bones You've probably heard it a thousand times before, but we'll say it again: calcium is vital for strong bones and teeth. And when it comes to calcium, dairy is the MVP. A single glass of milk contains around 300 mg of calcium, which is about one-third of an adult's daily requirement. Say goodbye to brittle bones and hello to a stronger, more robust skeleton. Plus, the calcium in dairy products is easily absorbed by the body, so you can be sure that your bones are reaping the full benefits. Remember the old saying, "milk does a body good”? Turns out it's true!2. Protein: The whey to go for muscle growth and repairDairy products aren't just good for your bones; they are also packed with high-quality protein. This macronutrient is essential for muscle growth, repair, and maintenance, as well as keeping your hair, nails, and skin looking fabulous. Milk, cheese, and yoghurt all contain a good amount of protein, but Greek yoghurt and cottage cheese are particularly protein-rich options. And if you've been hitting the gym, you've probably heard about the wonders of whey protein. This fast-absorbing protein, derived from milk, can help you build muscle, lose fat, and improve your athletic performance. 3. Probiotics: The gut-feeling you can trust If you're looking for a gut-friendly food, look no further than fermented dairy products like yoghurt and kefir. These delightful treats are packed with live bacteria and yeast, aka probiotics, which are essential for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Probiotics can help with digestion, boost your immune system, and even improve your mood (yes, that's right—a happy belly equals a happy mind). So, don't be sour, embrace the probiotic power of dairy and watch your gut health flourish.4. Overall improvement in healthThe health benefits of dairy don't stop at calcium, protein, and probiotics. Consuming dairy products can help lower your risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Plus, dairy has been linked to improved weight management and a reduced risk of obesity. And for those who are lactose intolerant, don't worry, there are plenty of lactose-free dairy options available, so you can still reap the rewards of this nutritious food group.

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.

05 September, 2024

6 Benefits of Including Feta Cheese in Your Daily Diet

Feta cheese is a soft and crumbly white cheese made from cow's milk. Being a traditional Greek cheese, feta cheese is now a staple in many cultures and cuisines worldwide. Its unique flavor and texture cannot be compared to any other cheese out there. Not only is it tasty, but feta cheese also provides several health benefits that make it a great addition to your daily diet. Here are six of them:1. Rich in nutrientsFeta cheese is a nutritious food option that provides important vitamins and minerals for the body. It is low in fat and calories, making it an ideal choice for people who are trying to control their weight. It is packed with essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, and riboflavin, making it a great addition to any diet.2. Source of proteinFeta cheese is a type of cheese that is high in protein, providing 6 grams of protein per ounce.3. Boosts immunityFeta cheese is a good source of Vitamin B12, a nutrient that can help strengthen the body's immune system, making it more resistant to illnesses and infections. 4. Rich in antioxidantsFeta cheese is full of beneficial antioxidants that can defend your body's cells from harm caused by dangerous molecules known as free radicals.5. Improves bone healthFeta cheese is rich in calcium, which is an essential mineral for keeping bones strong and healthy. It is especially important for those at risk of developing osteoporosis, as it helps reduce the risk of the disease by making bones more resilient.6. Source of phosphorusFeta cheese is a good source of phosphorus, providing about 17 milligrams of phosphorus per 30-gram serving. Phosphorus helps regulate the body’s acid-base balance and is also important for the growth and repair of body tissues.What’s more, feta cheese is a versatile ingredient Feta is a great ingredient to have on hand, as it can be used in many different recipes. Whether crumbled on top of a salad, placed as a topping over pizza, or mixed into a casserole, feta adds a unique flavor that can truly elevate your dish.How to know the authenticity of feta cheese?Authentic feta cheese is made with cow's milk, rennet, and salt. It should have a crumbly texture and a salty, tangy flavor. Buying quality and authentic feta cheese will ensure you get the maximum flavor and health benefits.The bottom lineAdding feta cheese to your daily diet can provide numerous health benefits. Not only is it rich in nutrients and vitamins, but it is also low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.Baladna offers high-quality, authentic feta cheese made with 100% cow's milk. It is a great choice for those looking to add delicious and nutritious cheese to their diet. Its crumbly texture and salty flavor make it a great addition to salads, pizzas, and sandwiches. Buy now!