The Best Cheeses for Grilling: Perfect for Summer Cookouts

Summer is here, which means it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends. Summer cookouts are a cherished tradition, filled with the delightful aroma of grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and, of course, cheese. Cheese has the remarkable ability to enhance flavors, adding both creaminess and depth to any dish. In this article, we’ll explore the best cheeses for grilling, providing you with insights on their unique characteristics and delicious pairings.

Section 1: Why Grilling Cheese is a Game Changer

Grilling cheese isn’t just a culinary trend; it’s a game-changer that can elevate your cookout dishes to new heights. The process of grilling transforms the cheese, creating a delightful caramelization on the outside while keeping the interior soft and gooey. Here’s why you should consider grilling cheese:

• Enhanced Flavor: Grilling brings out the natural flavors of cheese, creating a smoky, rich taste that can elevate any dish.
• Unique Textures: The contrast between the crispy exterior and creamy interior makes grilled cheese a delightful experience for the palate.
• Versatility: Grilled cheese can be served in various ways, from savory to sweet, making it a versatile addition to your cookout spread.

Here are a few quick tips for grilling cheese effectively:

• Choose the right cheese: Some cheeses grill better than others due to their melting properties.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the cheese to get the perfect sear.
• Use a grilling basket: This helps keep the cheese intact, especially for softer varieties.

Section 2: Top 5 Cheeses for Grilling

2.1 Halloumi

Originating from Cyprus, halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened cheese known for its unique ability to hold its shape when grilled. Its high melting point makes it perfect for grilling, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior.

Texture and Flavor Profile: Halloumi has a slightly salty flavor with a firm texture that becomes wonderfully crispy when grilled.

Suggested Grilling Methods and Pairings: Grill slices of halloumi on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Pair it with fresh watermelon and mint for a refreshing summer salad or serve it on skewers with grilled vegetables.

2.2 Raclette

Raclette is a semi-hard cheese that is traditionally melted and scraped onto potatoes and other accompaniments. Its name comes from the French word “racler,” meaning “to scrape.”

Melting Characteristics: Raclette melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey texture that is perfect for grilling.

Recommended Accompaniments for Grilled Raclette: Serve melted raclette over boiled potatoes, pickles, and cured meats for a traditional Swiss experience or drizzle it over grilled vegetables for a modern twist.

2.3 Queso Blanco

Queso Blanco, a fresh white cheese commonly used in Mexican cuisine, has a mild flavor and slightly crumbly texture. It is an excellent choice for grilling due to its high melting point.

Best Grilling Techniques: Grill thick slices or cubes of queso blanco over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes each side.

Serving Suggestions: Pair grilled queso blanco with chipotle and cilantro for a perfect taco topping or serve it with fresh salsa.

2.4 Goat Cheese

Goat cheese is a diverse cheese with various textures, ranging from soft and creamy to firm and aged. It adds bright, tangy flavors to dishes.

Varieties of Goat Cheese Suitable for Grilling: Fresh goat cheese can be grilled on skewers or in a grilling basket, while aged varieties can be sliced and grilled.

Flavor Enhancement When Grilled: The heat brings out the sweetness of the cheese, enhancing its natural flavors.

Pairing Ideas with Vegetables and Herbs: Serve grilled goat cheese atop a fresh salad with beets and honey or use it as a topping for grilled vegetables sprinkled with herbs.

2.5 Gruyère

Gruyère is a Swiss cheese known for its nutty, slightly sweet flavor. It has a rich history and is often used in fondue and French onion soup.

Description and Flavor Notes: Gruyère melts well, becoming creamy and smooth when heated.

Ideal Dishes to Incorporate Grilled Gruyère: Use grilled Gruyère in sandwiches, burgers, or even as a topping for baked dishes.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Melt: Slice Gruyère thinly and grill it on low to medium heat for optimal melting without burning.

Section 3: Grilling Tips for Cheese

Grilling cheese requires some knowledge to get the best results. Here are some essential tips:

• Ideal Temperatures for Grilling Cheese: Maintain a medium heat (around 350°F) to ensure that the cheese melts evenly without burning.
• Recommended Grilling Tools: Consider using grilling baskets, skewers, or cast iron pans to keep your cheese from falling through the grates.
• Safety Tips: Always oil your grill grates and the cheese to prevent sticking. Monitor the cheese closely to avoid burning.

Section 4: Pairing Grilled Cheese with Summer Foods

When it comes to pairing grilled cheese with other summer dishes, the possibilities are endless. Here’s a table to guide you in finding the perfect combinations:

Section 5: Creative Grilled Cheese Recipes

5.1 Grilled Halloumi Salad

Ingredients:

• 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup watermelon, cubed
• Fresh mint leaves
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Grill the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. In a bowl, combine mixed greens, watermelon, and mint.
4. Top the salad with grilled halloumi and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

5.2 Raclette Burger

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 slices of raclette cheese
• Burger buns
• Caramelized onions
• Mustard and pickles

Preparation Steps:

1. Form the ground beef into patties and grill until cooked to your preference.
2. Place slices of raclette cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt.
3. Assemble the burgers with caramelized onions, mustard, and pickles on buns.

5.3 Queso Blanco Skewers

Ingredients:

• 1 lb queso blanco, cut into cubes
• Bell peppers, cubed
• Zucchini, sliced
• Olive oil
• Skewers

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Thread queso blanco, bell peppers, and zucchini onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and grill for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until cheese is golden.

5.4 Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced
• 8 oz goat cheese
• Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or basil)
• Olive oil

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and grill until toasted.
3. Spread goat cheese on warm crostini and sprinkle with fresh herbs.

5.5 Gruyère Stuffed Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 12 large mushrooms, stems removed
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Olive oil

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine Gruyère cheese, breadcrumbs, and minced garlic.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture and brush with olive oil.
4. Grill for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Conclusion

Grilling cheese is not just about adding flavor; it’s about transforming your summer cookouts into memorable culinary experiences. From the salty bite of halloumi to the creamy richness of raclette, each cheese offers a unique flavor profile that can complement a variety of summer dishes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses and recipes. Share your favorite grilled cheese moments and creations with us!