Whilst fish and cheese may seem like a strange combination, it is more common than you think, for example, take the classic fish pie. However, most recipes online just state ‘cheese’. But what are the specific examples of cheese that pairs with salmon?
Which Cheese Pairs with Salmon?
Whilst cream cheese may seem like a bit of a cop-out, it is a great cheese matching perfectly with smoked salmon. The light, fresh and creamy flavours cut through the slightly oily, salty fish.
Top 5 Cheeses to Pair with Salmon are:
- Cream cheese
- Parmesan
- Halloumi
- Bocconcini
- Mild blue cheese
Does Hard Cheese make for a Good Pairing with Salmon?
Parmigiano Reggiano (also known as Parmesan) cheese is also another famous classic, produced in Italy. This is a traditional hard cheese that is dense, rich, and packed with flavour. Parmesan has a grainy texture, however, true Parmigiano Reggiano has a fruity, sweet, and nutty flavour. Using high quality milk during production, this allows protein crystallisations to form during the maturation process, as a result, it gives a salt-like texture to the cheese. This will make a great finishing accompaniment to your salmon, grated in small quantities.
Can I Combine two Kinds of Cheese in one Recipe?
Cream cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano can definitely be combined. Ideally used in a salmon pasta, the cream cheese will make a great base to the sauce, finished off with a light grating of Parmigiano Reggiano to bring out the earthy salty flavour.
Want to try something a little different?
Halloumi is a growing popular cheese and it is easy to see why. Sliced very thinly, this is the perfect accompaniment to your salmon. This is because it is light, creamy with a mild citrus flavour. This means that it is light and refreshing and will not overpower your fish. Halloumi is known to come from Cyprus and traditionally made with goat and sheep milk, however, it is more common to see a cow’s milk version of this cheese. Other versions of this cheese cannot classify themselves as Halloumi, it must follow the classic recipe and originate from Cyprus.
Love Mozzarella? Here is something new to try.
Bocconcini is another great alternative cheese to pair with salmon and a great way of trying something different. Bocconcini translates to ‘small bites’ and these are essentially mini mozzarella balls. It is made through a combination of cow and buffalo milk and produced in Italy. Just like mozzarella, it is perfect for quick melting and adds good texture and flavour to any dish. As well as this, they are light and fresh, and much like halloumi or cream cheese will help to create the perfect balance of flavours.
Looking for a Stronger Cheese to Pair with Salmon?
This last pairing may seem a little wild, but for those that are up for trying bold and new flavours then this salmon and cheese match will be for you. A very mild blue cheese, for example, Fourme d’Ambert from France. Any mild blue cheese is ideal because it is light, salty, and a little earthy in flavour. They will make a great blue cheese sauce to enhance your salmon.
Where can I buy these Cheeses?
Most if not all of these cheeses will be available in your local supermarket or deli. Ask your local cheesemonger for any advice and tips as to which cheeses are in season and are ripe and ready now.
