The Most Beautiful Cheese in the World

Okay, it’s not the most beautiful, and it’s not the most popular in the world (cheddar claims to be), but mozzarella cheese is the most popular cheese in the United States. Why? Think “pizza.” Think “lasagne.” Think “anything parmagiana.” Just thinking “mozzarella” sends some running to the fridge for a dose of string cheese.

Mozzarella is a semi-soft cheese well known for its superior melting qualities. Long associated with Italian cooking, mozzarella has many uses. Mozzarella and tomatoes are such an ideal combination that there are myriad recipes containing both.

 While I can’t imagine chicken soup without parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella is a wonderful addition to tomato based soups such as vegetable beef, minestrone, and pasta e fagioli. Substitute mozzarella for the cheese in a western omelet and discover whole new take on this familiar dish.

Hundreds of entrees include mozzarella and hundreds more can be improved with its addition, but don’t forget the appetizers. Pair mozzarella with prosciutto or honey ham and serve on roasted vegetable crackers (e.g., Ritz) or toasted Italian bread, spread with

eggplant and sweet red pepper pâté. For a quick snack, try roasted vegetable or tomato basil crackers with shredded mozzarella; microwave, bake, or broil until cheese is melted. Another great appetizer or snack is sliced tomato sprinkled with shredded mozzarella and broiled.

Is there an easier salad than Insalata Caprice? Sliced beefsteak tomatoes alternate with sliced mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil, and sprinkled with fresh-ground black pepper are all it takes, and it makes a lovely presentation. Include slices of Bermuda onion and/or roasted red bell peppers to make it even more special. (Using bocconchini [small round balls of mozzarella], and grape tomatoes is an even easier variation that could include black olives.)

There’s a lovely Italian deli in a largely Italian town in New Jersey that serves a simple sandwich of fresh mozzarella and Prosciutto on Italian bread. This simple combination, without any garnish or condiments, is delightful. The saltiness of the ham paired with the creaminess of the mozzarella served on crusty bread provide a savory mix with a variety of textures.

One of the most popular vendors at street fairs and outdoor events in Western North Carolina sells a very simple sandwich: grilled mozzarella on cornbread rounds. That sandwich is the reason many people attend the fairs! Those who have tasted it are willing to wait on long lines to get their sandwich and a fresh lemonade.

Besides tomatoes, another accompaniment that brings out the best features of mozzarella is eggplant and sweet red pepper pâté. Spread the pâté on sliced Italian (or other firm) bread, add ham and mozzarella, and grill. Another easy, yet heavenly sandwich. Not into eggplant or sweet red bell peppers? Try it without the pâté—still delicious and satisfying.

Did I say that mozzarella cheese is not the most beautiful cheese in the world? Silly me—it’s not only the most beautiful but also the most versatile. It can be included in breakfast, lunch, and supper as well as snacks and—as Italians know—desserts. Beautiful…heavenly…delicious…mozzarella.