Best 5 Manchego Cheese Recipes to Bring the Spanish Taste to Your Table

Manchego cheese, a product of Spain’s La Mancha region, is one of the most famous Spanish cheeses. Its rich, nutty flavor and firm texture make it a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes. In this article, we explore why Manchego cheese is a fantastic ingredient to incorporate into your meals and present five must-try recipes that will bring the authentic taste of Spain to your table.

Why Manchego Cheese is a Great Ingredient

Manchego cheese, made from sheep’s milk, has a distinctive taste that balances between sharpness and creaminess, making it a perfect addition to a wide range of recipes. Its versatility allows it to be used in everything from appetizers to main dishes, adding a unique twist to familiar favorites. Moreover, the aging process of Manchego cheese, ranging from 2 months (semi-cured) to over a year (cured or reserva), allows for a range of flavors that can complement both simple and complex dishes. Whether grated, melted, or sliced, Manchego cheese adds a burst of flavor that is unmistakably Spanish.

5 Recipes with Manchego Cheese You Cannot Miss

1. Pesto with Manchego Cheese and Marcona Almonds

Take your traditional pesto to the next level by using Manchego cheese and Marcona almonds. This twist on the classic Italian sauce adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with pasta, grilled vegetables, or as a spread on crusty bread. The combination of sharp Manchego with the buttery texture of Marcona almonds creates a deeply satisfying pesto that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup grated Certeza Manchego cheese
• 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1/3 cup Deliart fried Marcona Almond
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Blend basil, Manchego cheese, almonds, and garlic in a food processor until finely chopped.
2. Gradually add olive oil while blending until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve with your favorite pasta, vegetables, or as a dip.

2. Manchego Cheese Pizza

Transform your homemade pizza by incorporating Manchego cheese. Its sharp and tangy flavor pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings, such as chorizo, caramelized onions, and roasted red peppers. This recipe will quickly become a favorite for pizza night.

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Manchego cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced chorizo
• 1/2 cup caramelized onions
• 1/4 cup roasted red peppers
• Fresh arugula for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough and spread the tomato sauce evenly over it.
3. Sprinkle the shredded Manchego cheese over the sauce.
4. Add the sliced chorizo, caramelized onions, and roasted red peppers.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh arugula before serving.

3. Manchego Mac and Cheese

Give your traditional mac and cheese a Spanish flair by using Manchego cheese. The rich, creamy sauce combined with the sharp flavor of Manchego creates a comforting dish that is both familiar and excitingly new.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded Manchego cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 cup (115 g) grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a bit of smokiness)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta in boiling water.
2. While the pasta is boiling, grate the Manchego cheese and sharp cheddar cheese.
3. Once the elbow pasta is cooked, drain the water.
4. Place the macaroni in a deep-dish pan.
5. Combine the grated cheeses with the macaroni and stir thoroughly.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Place the dish in the oven and stir occasionally.
8. Once the cheese is slightly browned, remove the pan from the oven.

4. Spanish Quiche with Manchego Cheese

This Spanish-inspired quiche combines Manchego cheese with other classic ingredients like jamón serrano and bell peppers. It’s perfect for brunch or as a light dinner, offering a flavorful twist on the traditional quiche.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust or a homemade crust if preferred
• 6-8 large eggs. This will depend on the depth of the pie crust
• 1 cup of heavy cream or milk for a lighter option
• 1 cup shredded Manchego cheese
• ½ cup of finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves of minced garlic
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika—try La Dalia Smoked Paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Grate the Manchego cheese.
3. Finely chop the onions and mince the garlic.
4. Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and paprika. Then add the manchego cheese, garlic, and onions.
5. Pour the mixture into the deep-dish pie crust.
6. Bake loosely covered for 45 minutes and uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow to cool before slicing to truly let the filling set. This makes it easier to slice and prevents the filling from oozing out.

5. Manchego Cheese and Apple Salad

For a refreshing and light dish, try a salad featuring Manchego cheese and crisp apples. The combination of the sweet apples, savory cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette creates a balanced and flavorful salad that’s perfect as a side or a light meal.

Ingredients:

• 150 grams Manchego cheese, finely sliced or shaved
• 50 grams Marcona almonds
• 200 grams Lettuce (a mix of your favorite varieties)
• 2 medium-sized Apples, preferably crisp and slightly tart
• 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Vinegar, preferably sherry vinegar to complement the Manchego cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash and thoroughly dry the lettuce, then tear it into bite-sized pieces and place in a large salad bowl.
2. Core the apples and slice them thinly, leaving the skin on for added texture and color. Add the apple slices to the salad bowl.
3. Shave or thinly slice the Manchego cheese and scatter it over the lettuce and apples.
4. Add the Marcona almonds on top of the salad for a crunchy touch.

Conclusion

Manchego cheese is a fantastic ingredient that can bring a touch of Spain to a variety of dishes. From pesto to salads, its unique flavor can transform ordinary recipes into something extraordinary. Try these five recipes, and you’ll understand why Manchego cheese is a must-have in your kitchen.