14 May, 2024

7 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Halloumi Cheese

Similar

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!

27 August, 2025

When Is The Best Time To Drink Milk? And What Are The Benefits?

While milk can be consumed at any time of the day, drinking milk at night can have several benefits. Drinking milk at night has been a long-standing tradition in many cultures for centuries. While some may argue that it’s an old wives’ tale, scientific evidence supports the benefits of drinking milk at night. Here are some ways drinking milk at night can improve health.1. Helps people fall asleep fasterMilk contains tryptophan, an amino acid converted into serotonin and melatonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, while melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep. By drinking milk before bed, people can increase the levels of these chemicals in their brains, which can help them fall asleep faster.2. Promotes healthier sleep cyclesIn addition to helping people fall asleep faster, drinking milk at night can promote healthier sleep cycles. Milk contains calcium, which helps regulate the production of melatonin. By consuming milk before bed, people can help regulate their sleep cycles, leading to better quality sleep.3. Improves psychological healthDrinking warm milk before bed can also have psychological benefits. The warmth and comfort of the milk can help people feel relaxed and calm, reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, drinking warm milk before bed can become a comforting bedtime routine, improving overall psychological well-being.Warm vs. Cold MilkMilk is a staple in many diets and is an excellent source of essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and protein. It is consumed in many forms, including as a beverage, in recipes, and as a supplement. Meanwhile, milk's nutrient content remains the same regardless of temperature. Some differences exist between warm and cold milk.Warm MilkDrinking warm milk can have a soothing effect on the body, helping to promote relaxation and improve sleep. Warm milk can also help improve digestion and promote healthy bowel movements. Additionally, warm milk can be a comforting bedtime routine, enhancing psychological well-being.One reason is that milk contains an amino acid called tryptophan, a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical that helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep. When you consume tryptophan, your body converts it into serotonin, which can help promote calmness and relaxation.Cold MilkCold milk can refresh the body, making it an excellent option for hot summer days. Cold milk can also be used in smoothies or other cold beverages, making it a versatile ingredient. Additionally, cold milk can be an excellent post-workout beverage, as it can help replenish the body's fluids and nutrients.Cold milk can also be used in smoothies or other cold beverages. It is a versatile ingredient that can be combined with fruits, nuts, and other ingredients to create unique and delicious drinks. Smoothies made with cold milk are an excellent way to get a healthy dose of nutrients while also enjoying a tasty and refreshing drink.

10 November, 2024

Spreadable Cream Cheese: Easy & Tasty Snack Ideas

Cream cheese is a universal favorite — among both kids and adults alike. Whether you're looking for something quick and satisfying, or a more sophisticated bite for a party, Baladna’s spreadable cream cheese is the perfect go-to for such times. It’s time to get creative in the kitchen and put together treats your kids will love. Here are a few ideas:1. Cream Cheese & Veggie CrackersThis simple, tasty snack requires just a few ingredients: whole-grain crackers, Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese, and fresh vegetables.How to Make:Spread a generous amount of cream cheese on each cracker.Top with thinly sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.For extra flavor, sprinkle some za'atar.2. Cream Cheese PinwheelsFor a fun and playful snack, cream cheese pinwheels are perfect for kids.How to Make:Spread Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese on a soft tortilla.Add slices of turkey and spinach leaves.Roll tightly and slice into bite-sized pinwheels.3. Cream Cheese and Za'atar PiesThese pies combine the savory tang of za'atar with the rich creaminess of Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese, offering a delicious twist on the traditional za'atar manoushe.How to Make:Use store-bought or homemade za'atar manoushe or mini za'atar pies.Add a spoonful of cream cheese on top.Serve warm and enjoy!4. Cream Cheese & Olive BitesFor a quick Mediterranean-inspired snack, try cream cheese and olive bites. The salty olives pair perfectly with the creamy richness of Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese.How to Make:Spoon Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese onto small slices of baguette or toast.Top each slice with a few olive halves (green or black).For an extra touch, sprinkle some dried herbs like oregano or zaa’tar.Whether you're planning a quick on-the-go snack for your kids or an easy lunch for school, Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese brings a deliciously creamy touch to every meal. Enjoy these simple recipes that are sure to make your school season preparations a delight!

25 June, 2025

Baladna Cheese Varieties: A World of Flavor

Baladna cheese is a delightful and versatile option that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a wide range of foods. Crafted from 100% fresh, local milk, our cheese range boasts a rich flavor and smooth, creamy texture, making it an ideal choice for picnics, formal dinners, or any occasion. Here are some of the most popular varieties of Baladna cheese:1. Feta: A Tangy DelightBaladna Feta Cheese is a salty, crumbly cheese that takes the spotlight in salads, sandwiches, and dips. You can create various dishes using Baladna Premium Feta Cheese, such as feta salad, feta grilled cheese sandwiches, feta spinach dip, feta pasta salad, feta quiche, and stuffed mushrooms. For a Greek-inspired treat, consider making spanakopita by mixing spinach, feta, fresh parsley, dill, onions, garlic, eggs, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then layering the filling in flaky puff pastry before baking.2. Halloumi: The Perfect Salad PartnerKnown for its squeaky texture, Baladna Halloumi is fantastic for grilling and pairs beautifully with salads and pizzas. Try making meat-free skewers using cubes of halloumi, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Simply grill the kebabs until the halloumi is golden brown and the vegetables are tender. A classic halloumi salad can be made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs, all drizzled with a light vinaigrette.3. Mozzarella: A Universal FavoriteMild and milky, Baladna Shredded Mozzarella is perfect for pizzas, pasta, and sandwiches. This cheese is known for adding a creamy flavor to pasta dishes like lasagna, spaghetti, and macaroni and cheese. For a gooey treat, use mozzarella in grilled cheese sandwiches, club sandwiches, and paninis.4. Akawi: A Salty, Gooey IndulgenceWith its salty flavor and stretchy texture, Baladna Akawi Cheese is ideal for dough-based dishes like cheese manakeesh and rakakat jebneh. It’s also the key ingredient for achieving the perfect kunafa. 5. Nabulsi: A Creamy TreatBaladna Nabulsi Cheese offers a creamy texture and a mild tang, perfect for breakfast platters or unique salads. Its slightly salty flavor pairs well with fresh veggies, olives, and bread, or can be crumbled over roasted vegetables and grains. Elevate your dishes with Baladna cheese by your side No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Baladna cheese adds a touch of exceptional flavor to any dish. As a proud Qatari-owned and operated farm, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the finest dairy products. Our expansive farm spans over 2.6 million square meters and houses 24,000 cows, all raised in comfortable and well-maintained conditions to ensure optimal production. Visit our website today to learn more about our offerings!

26 June, 2025

Creative Middle Eastern Appetizers with Moshalal Cheese

Originating in the Levant region, moshalal cheese has been a part of Middle Eastern culinary culture for centuries. It is enjoyed across many Middle Eastern countries, including Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, where it holds a special place in traditional diets.Made from fresh cow or goat milk, this versatile cheese is often likened to string cheese due to its unique texture and delightful flavor. It is not only popular for snacking but also serves as a key ingredient in a variety of creative appetizers that showcase its deliciousness. What can you make with moshalal cheese? Here are some ideas:1. Moshalal Cheese & Herb SticksCut the moshalal cheese into sticks and serve them with a variety of fresh herbs, such as mint, parsley, and cilantro. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt for a refreshing and flavorful appetizer.2. Cheesy Spinach PuffsCombine chopped spinach, moshalal cheese, and feta in a bowl. Spoon the mixture into phyllo pastry sheets, fold, and bake until crispy. These bites are perfect for entertaining and can be served warm or at room temperature.3. Cheese and Za'atar FlatbreadSpread a mixture of moshalal cheese and za'atar on flatbread and bake until the cheese is bubbly. Cut into small squares for a savory snack that captures the essence of Middle Eastern flavors.4. Moshalal Cheese Stuffed ZucchiniHollow out small zucchini or courgettes and stuff them with a mixture of moshalal cheese, rice, diced tomatoes, and aromatic spices such as cinnamon and allspice. Place the stuffed zucchini in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake until tender. 5. Spiced Moshalal Cheese RollsSpread a thin layer of moshalal cheese onto a whole wheat tortilla or flatbread. Sprinkle with a mix of spices like cumin and paprika, then roll it up tightly. Slice into pinwheels for a quick, flavorful appetizer that’s easy to share at gatherings.Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into creative dishes, this stringy cheese is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. So, the next time you're looking to add a touch of Middle Eastern flavor to your gatherings, consider Baladna Moshalal Cheese as your star ingredient. Enjoy the rich traditions and vibrant tastes it brings to your table!