Ah, the French and their cheese… a historic and passionate couple! Brie, camembert, roquefort… it's hard to compete.
But sometimes, it's delightful to unveil the cheese treasures of our Mediterranean neighbors. From Greece to Spain, via Italy and Cyprus, the Mediterranean abounds with sun-drenched cheeses, full of character, that invite conviviality and indulgence.
Whether at your home or in a Mediterranean restaurant, Let your taste buds travel!
1. Feta – the Greek symbol of the sun
Feta is undoubtedly the cheese Greek The most iconic, with its crumbly white paste and slightly salty and tangy taste. It is traditionally made from sheep's milk, sometimes mixed with goat's milk, and matured for several weeks in brine. That's what salt bath which gives it its unique texture and characteristic flavor. Feta pairs well with both cold and some hot dishes, but it deteriorates if overcooked.
Gourmet pairings:
- Classic Greek salad: tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onions, oregano and olive oil
- Toasted bread with aromatic herbs and olive oil
- Spanakopitas (spinach pastries) or other puff pastry dishes
- Mediterranean vegetable omelets
- White pizza with olives, sundried tomatoes and arugula
2. Halloumi – the heat-resistant cheese
Came from Cyprus, Halloumi is a semi-firm cheese unique in its ability to resist cooking. It is made from sheep's milk, goat's milk, or a mixture of both, then lightly salted and sometimes smoked. Its texture is firm and slightly rubbery This makes it perfect for grilling, pan-frying, or adding to kebabs without melting. Its subtle, milky, and salty flavor pairs wonderfully with aromatic herbs like mint or oregano.
Gourmet pairings:
- Grilled halloumi and Mediterranean vegetable skewers
- Warm salad with tomatoes, peppers and fresh mint
- Mediterranean wraps or burgers
- Vegetable griddle with a squeeze of lemon
- Served with fruits like figs or watermelon for a sweet and savory contrast
3. Ricotta – the versatile Italian delicacy
Ricotta, originally from’Italy, is a light and creamy fresh cheese obtained from the whey from cow, sheep or goat, annealed to develop its airy texture. Its name means "« annealing »"Because the whey is heated to extract the fine protein particles that become ricotta. Its mild and slightly sweet flavor makes it an extremely versatile cheese, perfect for both sweet and savory preparations.
Gourmet pairings:
- Ravioli, lasagna or cannelloni filling
- Sicilian cannoli or Italian cheesecake
- Toast with honey, walnuts and fresh fruit
- Herb and spinach mix for topping pasta or vegetables
- Savory crepes or light desserts with citrus fruits
4. Manchego – the Spanish treasure
Manchego cheese, produced in the region of La Mancha in Spain, is developed from Manchega sheep's milk. Its dough farm, Manchego, with its nutty flavor and slightly tangy taste when aged, is distinguished by its characteristic braided rind. Depending on its aging (from 2 to 12 months), Manchego can be mild and creamy or full-bodied and complex, perfect for pairing with cured meats, fruit, or Spanish wines.
Gourmet pairings:
- Tapas with Iberian ham, olives and grilled peppers
- Summer salads with grilled vegetables, nuts or raisins
- Grated over pasta or risotto for an intense flavor
- Cheese platter with walnut or fig bread
- With a glass of Spanish red wine or sherry
5. Pecorino – the strength of Italy
Pecorino is a cheese Italian of sheep which varies according to the aging process. Pecorino romano is tangy and salty, ideal for grating over pasta, while the pecorino Sardo is softer and creamier. Made in different regions of Italy, it can be eaten young for its suppleness or older for a pronounced and almost fruity flavor.
Gourmet pairings:
- Pasta with tomato sauce, carbonara or cacio e pepe
- Salads with pears, walnuts and arugula
- Cheese platter with crusty bread and honey
- Mediterranean vegetable gratin
- Minestrone soup or rustic soups
6. Kefalotyri – the Greek guest of the hot
Less well-known than feta, kefalotyri is a cheese Greek hard cheese, traditionally made from sheep's milk, sometimes mixed with goat's milk. It is distinguished by its salty and slightly spicy flavor, as well as its robust character that develops with aging. Its firm, granular texture makes it ideal for grating over hot dishes or pan-frying without completely melting. Kefalotyri thus adds a robust and fragrant note to many Mediterranean dishes.
Gourmet pairings:
- Pastitsio (Greek gratin)
- Grilled or au gratin vegetables
- Meat or fish skewers
- Warm salad with fresh herbs and olive oil
- Potato croquettes or spanakopitas
7. Graviera – Greek softness and versatility
Graviera is a cheese Greek hard-paste, often made from sheep's milk or a mixture sheep-goat. Its mild and slightly sweet flavor, accompanied by nutty notes when matured, makes it ideal for hot dishes or appetizers.
Gourmet pairings:
- Grated over pasta, gratins or baked vegetables
- Mediterranean salads with tomatoes and olives
- Cheese platter with dried fruit and artisanal bread
- Omelets or quiches with herbs
- Serve as an aperitif with a drizzle of honey or fig jam.
8. Mahón – the taste of Menorca
Originally from Menorca, Mahón is a firm Spanish cow's milk cheese and a slightly tangy taste. Its creamy, buttery texture makes it an excellent table cheese or accompaniment to tapas. Aged for several months, it develops intense aromas that pair well with a variety of dishes.
Gourmet pairings:
- Tapas with cured meats and marinated vegetables
- Vegetable omelets or gratins
- Cheese platter with red berries or nuts
- In a pepper crust or oven-grilled
- With a glass of dry white or rosé wine
Conclusion
Exploring Mediterranean cheeses is like embarking on a true taste journey to the heart of the sun and flavors of the South.
Feta, halloumi, ricotta, manchego, pecorino, kefalotyri or graviera… each brings its own personality and transforms your dishes into true moments of indulgence and conviviality.
To extend this experience, nothing beats... Come and discover the Mediterranean cuisine of the Solis restaurant bar in Paris 17. Between colorful dishes, authentic recipes and a warm atmosphere, let yourself be seduced by a festival of tastes and scents that will take you on a journey without leaving the capital!
