Homemade Fresh Cheese Salad with Mediterranean Flair

Homemade Fresh Cheese Ingredients

For the Cheese:

• 3 liters (12.7 cups) whole milk
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt

For the Salad:

• 2 large yellow bell peppers, sliced
• 1 medium purple onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• Optional: cherry tomatoes for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Fresh Cheese

1. Pour the milk into a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
2. Heat the milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
3. When the milk reaches approximately 185°F (85°C), add the vinegar.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir gently until curds form (about 5-10 minutes).
5. Line a colander with cheesecloth and place over a large bowl.
6. Pour the mixture through the cheesecloth, allowing the whey to drain.
7. Add salt to the curds and mix gently.
8. Gather the corners of the cheesecloth and tie.
9. Place the bundle on a plate with a weight on top.
10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Assembling the Salad

1. Slice the chilled cheese into thin pieces.
2. Arrange sliced yellow peppers on a serving plate.
3. Layer with purple onion slices.
4. Place cheese pieces over vegetables.
5. Sprinkle with fresh dill and paprika.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.

Timing Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Draining Time: 4 hours to overnight
• Total Time: 5 hours (minimum)

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1/6 of recipe):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Calcium: 450mg
• Sodium: 380mg

Pro Tips and Tricks

1. Temperature is crucial – use a thermometer for precise results
2. Don’t discard the whey – use it in bread making or soups
3. The longer you drain the cheese, the firmer it becomes
4. Press gently when weighting to maintain a creamy texture
5. Always use whole milk for the best yield and texture

Variations and Substitutions

1. Replace vinegar with lemon juice for a different tang
2. Substitute yellow peppers with roasted red peppers
3. Add Mediterranean herbs like oregano or basil
4. Use honey drizzle instead of balsamic glaze
5. Add toasted pine nuts for extra crunch