Homemade Cheese and Refreshing Arugula Salad
This Homemade Cheese recipe is a simple and delightful way to enjoy fresh cheese made right in your kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients—milk, eggs, and sour cream—you can create a soft, creamy cheese that pairs perfectly with a light and refreshing arugula salad. The salad, featuring peppery arugula, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumber, is finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a burst of tangy sweetness. Together, they make for a satisfying, healthy meal that’s perfect for any time of day!
Homemade Cheese Recipe
Ingredients (Makes about 300 g of cheese)
Milk: 1 liter (4 1/4 cups)
Salt: To taste
Eggs: 3
Sour Cream: 250 g (8.8 oz)
Step 1: Heat the Milk
Pour the milk into a large saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it just begins to boil. Keep a close eye on it to prevent it from boiling over.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until well combined. This mixture will help the milk curdle and form the cheese.
Step 3: Add Egg Mixture to Milk
Slowly pour the egg and sour cream mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures even curdling.
Step 4: Cook and Stir
Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. You will see the mixture start to curdle as the cheese separates from the whey. This process should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Strain the Cheese
Once the mixture has fully curdled, remove it from the heat.
Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the cheese, allowing the whey to drain away. Gently press down to remove excess liquid but be careful not to squeeze too much, as this will make the cheese too dry.
Add salt to taste. Stir gently to incorporate the salt evenly throughout the cheese.
Step 6: Shape and Chill
Press the cheese into a mold or shape it by hand, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to firm up. This helps the cheese hold its shape and improves its texture.
Step 7: Serve
Once chilled, slice and enjoy your homemade cheese! It’s perfect on its own, with bread, or as a delightful addition to your favorite dishes.
Nutritional Information (Per 50 g Serving of Cheese)
Calories: 100
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Sugars: 2 g
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg
Sodium: 60 mg.
Refreshing Arugula Salad
Ingredients (Serves 2-3)
Arugula: A handful
Cherry Tomatoes: A small bunch, halved
Cucumber: 1, sliced
Salt and Pepper Mixture: To taste
Balsamic Glaze: For drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Rinse the arugula under cold water and pat dry. The fresh peppery flavor of arugula pairs wonderfully with the creamy homemade cheese.
Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the cucumber. These add a juicy and refreshing crunch to the salad.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a bowl, combine the arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices. Toss gently to mix.
Step 3: Season and Dress
Sprinkle with salt and pepper mixture to taste.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze, adding a sweet and tangy finish that complements the fresh flavors of the salad.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the salad alongside the homemade cheese for a light and satisfying meal. Enjoy the contrast of the creamy cheese with the crisp, vibrant salad.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 70
Protein: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Dietary Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 5 g
Fat: 4 g
Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
Sodium: 50 mg
Tips for the Perfect Homemade Cheese and Salad
Adjust the Texture: For firmer cheese, let the mixture curdle longer before straining. For softer cheese, reduce the curdling time slightly.
Customize the Flavor: Add herbs like chives, dill, or parsley to the cheese for added flavor. For the salad, try adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Serve Fresh: Enjoy the cheese and salad fresh for the best flavor and texture. The cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
This Homemade Cheese and Refreshing Arugula Salad combo is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and nutritious. It’s perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or even as part of a brunch spread. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of these homemade delights!