January is the height of summer – our favourite season of sun-soaked days, balmy evenings, and plenty of outdoor fun. It’s the time for South Africans to take to the beaches, to meet friends in scenic picnic spots and to light up those braai fires across the country. Central to this vibrant lifestyle is the enjoyment of sharing good food with loved ones, and one of the most nutritious and cost-effective ways to elevate your summer table is to indulge in the creamy, versatile delights of maas, cheese and yoghurt.
Dairy, including the wide array of excellent South African cheeses, provides a powerhouse of essential nutrients to support all lifestyles over the summer season. Nutrition experts recommend enjoying at least 3 servings of dairy a day to support a healthy, balanced diet. Hydration is also very important for both children and adults during the summer heat. There’s nothing better than a glass of refreshing cold milk to replenish you after being active on a hot day.
To inspire your meals this summer, Rediscover Dairy has curated eight irresistible recipes where dairy takes the spotlight. These dishes are perfect for everything from parties and picnics to a casual lunch or a special dinner.
- Roast Tomato Gazpacho with Maas – Cool and tangy, this chilled soup is made with roasted ripe tomatoes, bursting with flavour, and a hint of smoked paprika. The addition of a swirl of creamy maas adds a uniquely fresh South African flair, that brings out the sweet notes in the dish.
Tip: Maas, also known as amasi, is a much-loved product and can be swapped with buttermilk. - Lamb Koftas with Spicy Yoghurt Dip – These crowd-pleasers on wooden skewers can be cooked in a griddle pan or on the braai. The delectable yoghurt dip is a perfect pairing and delivers a creamy kick. Remember, yoghurt soothes the heat but keeps all the flavour.
- Cheesy Nachos – Everyone loves cheese. It’s a family favourite that is quick, easy and delicious. This dish is perfect for supper time during a busy week, for snacking while watching a game, or putting together at the last minute for unexpected get-togethers. Cheese is also a great protein source that keeps you fuller for longer.
- Corn on the Cob – This popular braai side dish gets dressed up with cottage cheese, parmesan cheese, a squeeze of lime and a touch of chilli. Cottage cheese, chunky or smooth, adds a protein-rich creamy element to the dish that will elevate your braai feast.
- Greek Pasta Salad – A Mzansi braai is not the same without a pasta salad. This fresh take on a perennial favourite is packed with sweet peppers, olives, basil and feta cheese, and topped with a moreish yoghurt dressing. Nutritionally balanced and delicious, it’s also good as a stand-alone meal.
Tip: Swap the feta for fried halloumi cheese with sweet chili sauce for a proper kick. - Prawn, Avo, and Halloumi Ritz – An elegant, dairy-rich twist on a retro classic for summer entertaining. It’s a perfect starter for a sit-down dinner or lunch occasion, but also makes for great party food too.
Tip: Try this recipe with Emmentaler cheese, or something very South African such as Boeren cheese. - Yoghurt, Mango, and Honey Ice Lolly – This creamy and fruity lolly makes the most of the summer produce and is sweetened with a little honey. It’s a healthy iced treat for kids and adults alike and can be enjoyed every day.
Tip: Look for strained yoghurt options or strain it yourself overnight in the fridge to reduce the liquid whey content. You will get a thicker, creamier yoghurt which makes your ice lollies hold their form longer in the heat. - Cherry, Cottage Cheese, and Chocolate Ice Cream Cookies – A decadent dessert made with the season’s fresh cherries that is a perfect finale for any feast.
This collection of summer recipes highlights the remarkable versatility of milk and dairy. From the creaminess of maas to cottage cheese, yoghurt, milk, and cream, these ingredients add indulgence, texture, and balance to a variety of dishes. They also pair beautifully with the vibrant flavours of summer produce like berries, nectarines, and peaches. On those sweltering days when appetites wane, a chilled smoothie made with yoghurt or maas or milk can be both a refreshing treat and a nutrient-packed boost for the whole family.
Get creative this summer by adding dairy into your salads with crumbled cheese or yoghurt-based dressings as a nutrient-rich, flavourful alternative to oils. By making milk or other dairy a regular feature at your summer table, you can ensure your family enjoys all the benefits of their three-a-day servings while staying cool, nourished, and satisfied throughout the holidays.
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