The Ultimate Cheese Guide for Summer Salads

The answer is cheese. From soft and creamy to salty and bold, cheese adds flavour, texture and richness to summer salads. The right cheese can turn a simple bowl of greens into something special. Here’s the ultimate cheese guide for summer salads.

What Should You Consider When Choosing Cheese?

When selecting cheese, start with texture. Are you looking for something crumbly, creamy or a cheese that melts beautifully?

Next, consider the flavour profile. Do you prefer the subtle, milky notes of mild cheeses or the bold, tangy bite of sharper varieties? The key is to choose a cheese that complements the other ingredients in your dish.

Temperature is another important factor. Cheeses like mozzarella shine when served cold, while varieties like halloumi are best enjoyed grilled and warm. Let the season and the style of your meal guide your decision. And don’t hesitate to experiment - trying new combinations might just lead you to your next favorite pairing!

Top Cheeses for Summer Salads

Here’s a list of delicious cheeses that can take your summer salads to the next level. These options add the perfect balance of flavour and texture, making every bite more enjoyable:

Feta

Feta is a timeless choice for salads, loved for its crumbly texture, salty flavour and delightful tang. Made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, feta truly shines in Greek-style salads loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives and red onions. 

Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella is known for its soft, creamy texture and mild, delicate flavour. It’s often served in slices or as small balls called bocconcini, and it’s a staple in the classic Caprese salad with tomatoes and basil - especially during summer when tomatoes are at their peak. 

Goat Cheese

Goat cheese, or chèvre, boasts a creamy, tangy flavour that adds richness to any salad. It spreads easily and softens when warmed, giving salads a luxurious, velvety touch. Pair goat cheese with bold ingredients like beets, arugula, and walnuts, or balance its tang with apples, pears, or a drizzle of honey. 

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is the go-to choice for those who enjoy bold, intense flavours. Its sharp, salty and slightly pungent taste brings depth and complexity to salads. It’s a natural companion to grilled meats, bacon or steak, making it ideal for hearty salads.

Parmesan

Parmesan, a hard cheese with a nutty, salty profile, offers an easy way to elevate your salad. Whether shaved or grated, just a small amount adds rich flavor and texture. It’s a classic in Caesar salads, pasta salads and dishes with lemon or olive oil dressings.

Burrata

Burrata is a decadent cheese that looks like mozzarella on the outside but hides a creamy, luscious center. When sliced, the creamy interior spills out, making it a true indulgence on warm summer days. 

Halloumi

Halloumi is a firm, salty cheese from Cyprus with a unique quality - it doesn’t melt when heated. This makes it ideal for grilling or frying until golden brown, resulting in a warm, chewy texture with a crisp exterior. 

Whether you like it soft and creamy, firm and salty, or bold and tangy, there’s a cheese that fits your style. From classic feta to fancy burrata, this guide helps you pick the perfect match for your summer meals.