What Cheese Goes with Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad?

Balsamic vinaigrette salad is a great dish to enjoy any time of year, but it can be especially delicious in the fall and winter when the flavors are bolder.

However, what cheese goes best with balsamic vinaigrette salad?

There are many types of cheese that can be enjoyed with this salad – from soft cheeses, like brie and camembert, to hard cheeses, like parmesan and gorgonzola.

In this article, I have included 11 different cheese ideas that go perfectly with balsamic vinaigrette salad.

I have also provided a few tips on how to make this dish even more delicious.

So, whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing for summer meals or something hearty and savory for winter gatherings, you will find the perfect cheese to accompany your salad here.

Why Consider Pairing Cheese with Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad?

Cheese and balsamic vinaigrette salad is a classic pairing that can be enjoyed for many reasons.

• First of all, cheese goes well with vinaigrette because both are acidic.
• Secondly, cheese and balsamic vinegar are a perfect match because they both have a strong flavor.
• Thirdly, cheese and balsamic vinaigrette are complementary flavors because they work well together to create a unique flavor profile.
• Finally, cheese and balsamic vinaigrette are an excellent combination for those who want something more substantial than just salad.

What Cheese Goes with Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad?

The best cheeses to pair with a balsamic vinaigrette salad are sharp, salty cheeses like Parmesan, Asiago, and Pecorino. These cheeses will complement the sweetness of the balsamic vinegar and bring out the flavors of the other ingredients in the salad.

However, since it’s all about personal preference, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese until you find the perfect pairing for your salad.

For more ideas, keep scrolling!

1. Blue Cheese

Known for its strong and pungent flavor, blue cheese is a favorite amongst many cheese lovers.

When paired with a balsamic vinaigrette salad, the blue cheese provides a deep and savory flavor that is countered by the acidity of the dressing.

Other ingredients that pair well with blue cheese in this dish include crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh greens.

To elevate this dish, consider adding some chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey.

2. Feta

Yes, this cheese is not only for Caesar salad. Feta goes amazingly well with balsamic vinaigrette salad.

The sharp and salty flavor of feta contrasts well with the sweetness of the balsamic vinegar.

Other ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives complement feta’s flavor profile.

This cheese is also amazing when paired with grilled vegetables.

Herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme bring out the best in feta.

3. Ricotta

Known for its healthy properties and versatile nature, ricotta is a cheese that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

When it comes to balsamic vinaigrette salad, ricotta cheese pairs well with the tangy dressing and various other ingredients commonly found in salads, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

The creaminess of the ricotta cheese helps to balance out the flavors in the salad and makes it a more filling and satisfying meal.

For an extra bit of flavor and texture, consider adding crumbled ricotta cheese to the top of your salad.

4. Mozzarella

This soft and mild cheese is the perfect addition to a balsamic vinaigrette salad.

The cheese adds a creamy and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the acidity of the dressing.

Other ingredients that pair well with mozzarella include tomatoes, olives, and basil.

This salad is also great with a side of crusty bread.

5. Parmesan

This cheese needs no introduction.

Parmesan is a hard, granular cheese that is perfect for grating over salads, pasta, and soup.

The flavor is strong and slightly nutty, with a salty finish.

Other ingredients that pair well with Parmesan include: tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.

Sides, herbs, and spices that can elevate Parmesan include: fresh basil, black pepper, and oregano.

6. Cheddar

This cheese is popular all around the world for its distinct, sharp flavor.

It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to main courses.

Cheddar pairs well with a variety of other ingredients, such as fruits, nuts, and meats.

It is also a delicious addition to a simple salad, as it adds a richness and depth of flavor.

When pairing cheddar with other ingredients, it is important to consider the strength of the flavor.

For example, a strong cheddar will be overpowering if paired with a delicate fruit or nut.

However, a mild cheddar can be a perfect compliment to a robust meat or strong flavor.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to pairing cheddar with other ingredients.

It is a cheese that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

7. Gorgonzola

If you dare to be different, then Gorgonzola is the cheese for you.

It’s a cheese that’s full of flavor, and it’s not afraid to let you know it.

When it comes to pairing Gorgonzola with other ingredients, you really can’t go wrong.

It pairs well with other strong flavors, like balsamic vinegar, but it can also hold its own against more delicate flavors.

And if you’re looking for a way to elevate this cheese, then look no further than pairing it with a sweet fruit, like a fig or a pear.

8. Chevre

Although this cheese doesn’t pack a ton of flavor on its own, its light and fresh taste pairs well with other ingredients.

Try pairing it with other light and fresh flavors like citrus, herbs, or greens.

Chevre also pairs well with balsamic vinaigrette, making it a great option for a salad.

To really elevate this cheese, try pairing it with some roasted nuts or a drizzle of honey.

9. Brie

Brie is a cheese that is often eaten with crackers or bread, but it can also be a wonderful addition to salads.

The creamy texture and mild flavor of brie pairs well with other ingredients, such as fruits, nuts, and vinaigrettes.

Adding brie to a salad can elevate the flavors of the other ingredients and make the salad more filling and satisfying.

When choosing a balsamic vinaigrette to pair with brie, look for one that is not too sweet or acidic.

A good balance of flavors is key to making a successful salad.

10. Camembert

Camembert has a lot of different flavors going on.

It is creamy and earthy with a hint of sweetness.

It pairs well with other strong flavors like balsamic vinegar, garlic, and thyme.

Camembert is also good with fruits like apricots and figs.

To really bring out the flavors of Camembert, try pairing it with a glass of red wine.

11. Roquefort

If you’re feeling like your salad needs a little something extra, consider adding some Roquefort cheese.

The sharp, salty flavor of Roquefort is a perfect contrast to the sweetness of balsamic vinaigrette, and it also pairs well with other ingredients often found in salads, like nuts, fruits, and greens.

To really make the most of this cheese, look for a high-quality Roquefort that has a strong flavor.

Then, experiment with different combinations of ingredients to find a salad that you love.

12. Gouda

Due to the many flavors that this cheese offers, it goes great with balsamic vinaigrette salad.

The sweetness of the vinaigrette pairs well with the caramelly taste of the Gouda.

The acidity of the vinaigrette also helps to bring out the nutty flavor of the cheese.

Other ingredients that pair well with Gouda in a salad include: apples, pears, grapes, cherries, nuts, and seeds.

Sides that can elevate this cheese include: a crusty baguette, roasted potatoes, and grilled vegetables.