Blue cheese, with its distinct, tangy and often pungent flavor, can add a delightful twist to a variety of dishes. Whether you're a long-time fan or looking to explore its unique taste, these simple blue cheese recipes are a great place to start. We'll cover pasta dishes, vegetarian options, ideas for dinner, and even how to make a classic blue cheese dressing. Plus, we'll address what to do with leftover blue cheese and answer some common questions.
Blue Cheese Recipes Pasta
🛒 What You’ll Need:
Creamy Blue Cheese Pasta with Walnuts
This quick and easy pasta dish combines the richness of blue cheese with the crunch of walnuts for a satisfying meal.
Step 1: Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 2: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 4 ounces of crumbled blue cheese to the pan. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss to coat. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts before serving.
This is a fantastic and simple blue cheese pasta option for a quick dinner.
Blue Cheese and Pear Salad with Candied Pecans
This elegant salad offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making it a perfect vegetarian main course or side.
Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of water over medium heat. Cook until the sugar dissolves. Add 1/2 cup of pecan halves and stir to coat. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sugar crystallizes on the pecans. Remove from heat and spread the pecans on a piece of parchment paper to cool.
Step 2: Wash and dry your favorite salad greens (about 5 ounces). Slice 2 ripe but firm pears.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste for the dressing.
Step 4: Arrange the salad greens and pear slices on plates or in a bowl. Sprinkle with 4 ounces of crumbled blue cheese and the candied pecans. Drizzle with the balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
This is a delicious and satisfying blue cheese recipe that's perfect for vegetarians.
Blue Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken dinner with a flavorful blue cheese filling.
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Butterfly 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine 4 ounces of crumbled blue cheese, 2 tablespoons of cream cheese (softened), and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives. Mix well.
Step 3: Divide the cheese mixture between the butterflied chicken breasts, placing it in the center. Fold the chicken over the filling and secure with toothpicks if needed. Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 4: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 5: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
This blue cheese recipe makes for a flavorful and satisfying dinner.
Best Blue Cheese Recipes
The "best" is subjective, but the Creamy Blue Cheese Pasta and the Blue Cheese and Pear Salad are often considered top choices for their balance of flavors and ease of preparation. The Blue Cheese Stuffed Chicken also stands out as a more substantial and flavorful dinner option.
Blue Cheese Pasta (Revisited)
As mentioned earlier, a simple creamy blue cheese sauce over your favorite pasta is a fantastic way to enjoy blue cheese. Feel free to experiment with different additions like roasted vegetables, crispy bacon, or herbs like parsley or thyme.
Blue Cheese Dressing Recipe
🛒 Dressing Tools & Ingredients:
Making your own blue cheese dressing is easy and tastes far better than store-bought versions.
Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar), 2 tablespoons of crumbled blue cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of white wine vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: For a chunkier dressing, add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of crumbled blue cheese and gently stir.
Step 3: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Enjoy your homemade blue cheese dressing on salads, with chicken wings, or as a dip for vegetables.
What to Do with Leftover Blue Cheese
Don't let leftover blue cheese go to waste! Here are some ideas:
- Crumble it over salads: Adds a burst of flavor to any green salad.
- Melt it on burgers or steaks: Creates a rich and tangy topping.
- Incorporate it into dips: Mix with cream cheese or sour cream for a flavorful appetizer.
- Add it to scrambled eggs or omelets for a cheesy and savory breakfast.
- Make a blue cheese sauce: Melt with cream or milk for a sauce to serve over vegetables or meats.
- Stuffed dates or figs: A simple and elegant appetizer.
- Bake it into bread or scones: Adds a unique flavor to your baked goods.
Answering Your Questions:
What can I do with blue cheese?
Blue cheese can be used in a wide variety of culinary applications. You can crumble it over salads, melt it into sauces, use it as a filling for meats or vegetables, incorporate it into dips and spreads, or simply enjoy it on a cheese board with fruits and nuts. Its strong flavor makes it a versatile ingredient to add a bold touch to many dishes.
What does blue cheese go well on?
Blue cheese pairs well with a variety of flavors and textures. Some popular pairings include
- Fruits: pears, apples, figs, grapes. The sweetness of the fruit balances the saltiness and tanginess of the cheese.
- Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, almonds. They provide a contrasting crunch and nutty flavor.
- Meats: Steak, burgers, chicken. Blue cheese adds richness and a pungent kick.
- Vegetables: Celery, carrots, and roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts.
- Sweet elements: honey, balsamic glaze. These can complement the savory notes of the cheese.
- Wine: Port wine, sweet white wines, and bold red wines often pair well with blue cheese.
Is blue cheese healthy to eat?
Blue cheese, like other cheeses, contains fat and calories. However, it also provides calcium and protein. Some studies suggest that the mold in blue cheese may have potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties. Moderation is key, as with any food. If you are concerned about sodium or saturated fat intake, consume blue cheese in smaller amounts.
Can I eat blue cheese directly?
Yes, you can definitely eat blue cheese directly! It's a popular cheese to include on cheese boards and can be enjoyed with crackers, bread, fruits, and nuts. The flavor will be more intense when eaten on its own. Different types of blue cheese will have varying levels of pungency and creaminess, so you can explore and find your favorites.
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