Blog Beyond The Block: Foods You Can Eat With Feta Cheese
14 May, 2024

Beyond The Block: Foods You Can Eat With Feta Cheese

Similar

Feta cheese is an iconic cheese that has been enjoyed for centuries in Mediterranean countries. Its unique flavor and texture set it apart from other cheeses. Not only is it a delicious addition to any meal, but it also offers a variety of health benefits.

 

This dairy product is the perfect option if you’re looking to add a unique flavor to your dishes. From salads to different kinds of pasta, many foods pair well with feta. Here are some of them: 

 

Salads & Vegetables

 

Do you want to get more protein and nutrients from your meals? Adding dairy products to salads is a great way to do just that! Dairy products contain essential vitamins and minerals to help you feel fuller for longer. They’re also a significant source of protein, which can help build muscle and aid in weight management. 

 

Feta cheese is one example of a dairy item that goes perfectly with various salads and vegetables. You can chop it into cubes and add it to a classic Greek salad or create a Mediterranean-style salad with feta, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. You can also sprinkle some feta over a bed of greens or roasted vegetables for a flavorful and nutritious meal.

 

Pasta Dishes

 

Of course, it's a known fact that adding cheese to your favorite pasta dishes will elevate your culinary experience. Incorporating feta cheese in your pasta dishes can add a unique flavor and texture to your meal. You can either use it as a topping or mix it into the pasta. 

 

Feta cheese is especially delicious with tomatoes, olives, and garlic. You can add feta to classic dishes like macaroni, cheese, or lasagna. 

 

Aside from that, feta cheese can add a touch of salty flavor to any pasta dish. For example, you can sprinkle it over a creamy Alfredo sauce or mix it into a pesto sauce. The possibilities are endless!

 

Meats

 

You might think pairing feta with meat is odd, but you will never know what a treat it is until you try it. You can mix feta with ground beef for a delicious burger patty. Or, you can top a grilled steak with feta for a salty, tangy flavor. 

 

You can combine feta with other ingredients to create an amazing marinade for your favorite meats. For example, you can mix feta, olive oil, garlic, and oregano to create a flavorful marinade for chicken, pork, or beef.  



Desserts

 

Feta pairs well with sweet flavors like honey, cinnamon, and chocolate. You can make a delicious feta and honey tart or a feta and dark chocolate brownie if you’re a fan of sweet and salty combos. You can also use feta to make a savory cheesecake or top a slice of cake with crumbled feta for a salty and sweet twist. 

 

You can never go wrong with feta 

  

With its creamy texture and salty flavor, it is easy to see why feta cheese is a popular choice for many dishes. So, the next time you want to elevate your meal, try adding some feta. You won't regret it!

 

Baladna offers a wide variety of dairy products that satisfy your taste buds — from feta cheese to yoghurt and cream cheese. Whether you are looking for something to top your salads or something to add to your pasta dishes, Baladna has you covered. Buy our products today! 


More Articles

Blog Is It Safe to Consume Cheese If You Have Heart Disease?
17 November, 2024

Is It Safe to Consume Cheese If You Have Heart Disease?

As one of the most beloved and versatile dairy products, cheese has been a staple in many people's diets for centuries. However, for those with heart diseases, the question of whether cheese is safe to consume remains a concern. This article will explore the relationship between cheese and heart disease and provide insights into whether cheese should be included in a heart-healthy diet.Understanding heart diseaseThe term heart disease may refer to various conditions that affect the heart, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, and valve disease. These conditions can lead to complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and even death. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, responsible for one in four deaths each year.The role of diet in heart diseaseDiet plays a crucial role in the development and management of heart disease. Unhealthy eating habits, such as consuming too many saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars, can increase the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, a heart-healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall heart health.Cheese and heart disease: What the experts sayCheese is a rich source of calcium, protein, and vitamins, making it a popular food choice for many. However, cheese is also high in saturated fat, which has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends that people limit their intake of saturated fat to less than 6% of total daily calories to reduce the risk of heart disease.A study published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases found that consuming high amounts of cheese was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The study followed 36,000 participants over ten years and found that those who consumed the most cheese had a 14% higher risk of developing heart disease than those who consumed the least.However, not all studies have found a link between cheese consumption and heart disease. A meta-analysis of 29 studies published in the European Journal of Epidemiology found that cheese consumption was not associated with an increased risk of heart disease or stroke. The researchers noted that some types of cheese, such as hard cheese, may even have a protective effect against heart disease.Moderation is keyWhen it comes to cheese and heart disease, moderation is key. While some studies have found a link between high cheese consumption and an increased risk of heart disease, other studies have found no association or even a protective effect. The type of cheese, serving size, and overall diet are all factors that can impact the relationship between cheese and heart disease.As mentioned before, you may need to limit your intake of saturated fat to less than 6% of total daily calories. This can be achieved by choosing lower-fat cheese options, such as reduced-fat or fat-free cheese, and by consuming cheese in moderation. The recommended serving size for cheese is one ounce, which is about the size of a pair of dice.Incorporating cheese into a heart-healthy dietIncorporating cheese into a heart-healthy diet is possible for those with heart disease or those looking to reduce their risk. Choosing lower-fat cheese options, such as reduced-fat or fat-free cheese, can help reduce saturated fat intake. Pairing cheese with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also help balance the overall nutrient profile of a meal.Some types of cheese may even provide health benefits. For example, cheese made from grass-fed cows may contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Cheese made from goat or sheep milk may also be a good alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or sensitive to cow's milk.Buying high-quality cheese While cheese can be a delicious and nutritious addition to a well-balanced diet, those with heart disease or at risk of heart disease should consume cheese in moderation. Choosing lower-fat cheese options and pairing cheese with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce saturated fat intake and provide a more balanced nutrient profile. By incorporating cheese into a heart-healthy diet, individuals can continue enjoying this beloved dairy product while promoting overall heart health.If you are looking for the best cheese for your diet, look no further than our healthy selections here at Baladna. We are 100% Qatari, and we have one of the largest cattle farms in the region, providing authentic, fresh and quality dairy products. Browse through our website for more!

Read More
Blog Food Watch: How Long Can I Leave My Block of Cheese Out?
14 May, 2024

Food Watch: How Long Can I Leave My Block of Cheese Out?

Cheese is a favorite among many, but not everyone cares for their cheese as much as they should. Everybody knows that leaving out uneaten food is terrible because it can lead to food contamination, mold growth, and it can attract pests. The same can be said about leaving certain foods unrefrigerated and that includes cheese. But worry not, we’re going to dive deep into storing tips and tricks regarding your favorite cheese. What is cheese? People make cheese by taking milk and introducing bacteria to it to create an acidic environment. This environment separates the milk into a solid curd and a liquid whey. They’ll cook, cut, and press the curd together to produce more whey. Next, they’ll add salt and other flavorings and let the dairy product age for several weeks or even longer to create cheese. How long have people been making cheese? People have been crafting cheese for thousands of years without mechanical refrigeration. Aging is a crucial part of the process, where they store blocks of cheese at moderate temperatures and leave them to mature for long periods. This step is critical in developing the best-tasting cheese and can take weeks, months, or even years. Can cheese go bad? The good news is that pasteurized cheese won’t likely cause stomach problems, even if you leave it out for a few days. People have pasteurized the milk used to make the cheese, which means they heated it to kill potentially harmful bacteria. However, if you leave it out for an extended time, the dairy product can spoil, and the bacteria will change its color, texture, flavor, and aroma. You must also be more careful with unpasteurized cheeses like Brie, Camembert, Feta, and other fresh cheeses as foodborne illnesses are more present. Such cheeses can be contaminated with different bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella, and listeria. Why can’t it go bad?The oldest and most common food preservation technique removes the water and oxygen bacteria needed to survive. It works best for cheese because it squeezes most of the water. Unfortunately, like most things, cheese can experience mold growth because of spores. Luckily, you can cut off the moldy parts, and the rest of the dairy product is safe to eat. While keeping certain cheeses at room temperature will not cause food poisoning, its quality will suffer because of the drying out and fat separation. Hard vs. Soft CheeseWhen it comes to storing, the type of cheese is the most important consideration. Hard cheeses will last longer and are less likely to cause health issues. However, soft cheeses - such as Brie, cream cheese, ricotta and others - must be handled more carefully. These cheeses, as well as unripened cheeses - such as halloum and akawi - should remain refrigerated at all times. They can be kept out for two hours tops. How long can you let cheese sit out? Depending on its type, cheese can stay out of the refrigerator for two hours tops if you store it in a cool place. You should store fresh, unripened cheeses in the fridge, while aged dairy products can stay out for up to a day. Moreover, anything you can’t eat within a day belongs in the refrigerator.Keeping it safe and cheesyCheese remains a popular dairy product because of its versatility and flavor. You can enjoy this food better by storing it properly and knowing how to use it for different foods. At Baladna, we strive to bring Qatar the freshest and most authentic products to help people enjoy their meal times better. Browse through our products today!

Read More
Blog 6 Benefits of Including Feta Cheese in Your Daily Diet
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!

Read More
Blog All About Nabulsi Cheese: The Perfect Salad Addition
24 June, 2025

All About Nabulsi Cheese: The Perfect Salad Addition

When most people think of Nabulsi cheese, they might imagine it melting into a decadent Middle Eastern dessert or paired with olives for breakfast. However, Nabulsi cheese is far more versatile than you might think. With its firm texture, salty flavor, and satisfying bite, Nabulsi makes the perfect addition to fresh salads, adding a delightful Middle Eastern twist to your greens.But first, what makes Nabulsi cheese unique?Originating from the city of Nablus in Palestine, Nabulsi cheese is a semi-hard white cheese, often flavored with mahlab (a cherry seed spice) and nigella seeds. Traditionally, it’s soaked in brine to preserve it, giving it a distinct salty flavor that pairs beautifully with both savory and fresh ingredients. The cheese can be eaten fresh or fried for a crispy outer layer and gooey inside, similar to halloumi.What makes it so great for salads? Texture: Nabulsi cheese has a firmer texture, which holds up well in salads without crumbling. This makes it ideal for tossing with vegetables, grains, and even fruits.Salty, Tangy Flavor: The cheese’s saltiness adds a burst of flavor to otherwise mild ingredients, creating a balanced contrast in your salad.Versatility: Whether grilled, fried, or used fresh, Nabulsi cheese complements a wide range of ingredients, from leafy greens to grains, fruits, and nuts.A few creative salad ideas with Nabulsi cheese1. Nabulsi Cheese & Watermelon SaladPair the salty Nabulsi with juicy watermelon cubes for a refreshing summer salad. Add a sprinkle of mint leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a dash of lemon juice for a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.2. Grilled Nabulsi Cheese Salad with Roasted VegetablesLightly grill slices of Nabulsi cheese until golden brown and add to roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Toss with a vinaigrette made from lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of sumac for a Middle Eastern-inspired salad.3. Nabulsi Cheese & Arugula SaladUse the cheese as a salty counterpart to peppery arugula. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onions, and finish with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.4. Nabulsi Cheese & Quinoa SaladFor a heartier salad, combine Nabulsi cheese with cooked quinoa, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon for a protein-packed meal that’s both healthy and delicious.If you’re looking to bring a new flavor to your salads, Nabulsi cheese is a great way to introduce a taste of the Middle East into your meals. For the finest Nabulsi cheese, Baladna has you covered. Visit our website to explore our range of products, and find Baladna cheeses in supermarkets across Qatar today!

Read More