American novelist Richard Condon once said that “cheese is the adult form of milk.” Indeed, many of us may no longer drink the white beverage, but cheese – in its many forms – continues as a much-loved staple, used in everything from sandwiches, sauces, soups and salads, to souffles and snacks.
Which is why it is fitting to have a special day to celebrate this versatile food – one that is believed to have originated in Poland, more than 7,000 years ago.
National Cheese Day is observed every June 4th. It’s an opportunity enjoy one (or several of) the thousands of cheeses, made from the milk of a variety of animals: cows, goats, sheep, and buffalo – all having their own flavours, textures, and unique characteristics
To mark the occasion, seasoned cheese enthusiasts, as well as newbies, can venture beyond their usual comfort zone and discover new flavours. Why not visit your local farmers’ market, drop by a cheese shop, or dive deep into your local grocer’s Deli section, where you can explore a wide range of artisanal and international cheeses?
Then ask a few questions, and get the back story on your purchase. It’ll give you just enough ‘cheese cred’ to sound like the smartest guy (or gal) at your next get together.
At Vince’s, one of our cheese savants is the category manager for Deli: Nicolina Gauci. She has forgotten more than I’ll ever know about deli meats and cheeses, and had a few recommendations of her own to celebrate National Cheese Day – and the start of summer.
“For a great summer gathering, one of my go-to dishes is the Bocconcini salad,” she said. “It is refreshing, light, delicious, and easy to make.”
The Refreshing Bocconcini and Caprese Salads
Bocconcini, for those unfamiliar, are mozzarella cheese balls, ranging in size from a grape to a hard-boiled egg. Originating in Naples, they were traditionally crafted from the rich milk of Mediterranean buffalo, but are now often a blend of buffalo and cow’s milk. Bocconcini are packaged in whey or water, and have a spongy texture – perfect for soaking up flavours.
To make the salad, Nicolina suggests a simple ingredient list: Saputo Bocconcini , cherry tomatoes, basil, a dash of salt and pepper, “and then I add extra virgin olive oil with red wine vinegar.”
“I also make a nice Caprese salad, which is very similar to the above, only that I use Saputo mozzarella fresca,” she continued. Additional ingredients include 2 medium tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper. “For the finishing touch, drizzle extra virgin olive oil and glazed balsamic vinegar. Eccellente!”
So, as you plan your next patio party, remember that sometimes the simplest cheeses make the greatest impact. No need to search for the pricey and rare variety to impress.
Whether you’re tossing together a fresh Bocconcini salad or crafting a classic Caprese, these are sure to be crowd-pleasers. So, grab some fresh ingredients, channel your inner cheese aficionado, and let the celebrations begin. Happy National Cheese Day!
–Neil
