How to Make Livarot (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Livarot is a celebrated French cheese from Normandy, renowned for its pungent aroma, washed rind, and creamy texture. Often called 'The Colonel' due to its distinctive five bands of rush wrapped around its orange-hued rind, Livarot has been a fixture on French cheese boards since the Middle Ages. This cheese is traditionally made from cow's milk and undergoes a unique washing process that develops its robust flavor and characteristic scent. In French culture, Livarot is much more than just a cheese—it's a symbol of Normandy's rich dairy heritage. With a bold, savory taste and melt-in-the-mouth consistency, Livarot is often enjoyed as a side with fresh bread, crisp vegetables, or even as part of a light lunch. Its complex flavors, blending salty, earthy, and tangy notes, have captivated food lovers for generations. Choosing Livarot as a healthy French side allows you to savor authentic regional gastronomy while appreciating the centuries-old traditions of France's cheese-making artisans.
Ingredients
- 80g Livarot cheese (cut into thick wedges)
- 4 slices Whole grain baguette (pain complet)
- 6 Fresh radishes (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup Baby salad greens (mesclun mix)
- 6 Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 teaspoon Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper
- a pinch Sea salt
- 1 tablespoon Chives (finely chopped)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Remove Livarot cheese from the fridge 30 minutes before serving to ...
Remove Livarot cheese from the fridge 30 minutes before serving to allow it to reach room temperature. This step enhances its creamy texture and flavor.
Step 2 · Slice the whole grain baguette into even pieces and lightly toast i...
Slice the whole grain baguette into even pieces and lightly toast if desired for extra crunch.
Step 3 · Arrange baby salad greens and cherry tomato halves on each serving ...
Arrange baby salad greens and cherry tomato halves on each serving plate. Scatter thinly sliced radishes over the greens.
Step 4 · Place a generous wedge of Livarot cheese on each plate beside the s...
Place a generous wedge of Livarot cheese on each plate beside the salad and bread.
Step 5 · Drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the salad
Drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the salad, then season with black pepper and a pinch of sea salt as desired.
Step 6 · Garnish with chopped chives to add a fresh
Garnish with chopped chives to add a fresh, mild onion note to the dish.
Step 7 · Serve immediately alongside the toasted bread
Serve immediately alongside the toasted bread, encouraging diners to combine the creamy Livarot with crisp radish and greens for a balanced bite.
Why this recipe is healthy
By pairing Livarot cheese with whole grain bread and fresh, low-calorie vegetables, this recipe balances indulgent French flavors with nutrient density and portion control. The addition of salad greens and radishes increases fiber and vitamins, while a modest serving of cheese keeps saturated fat in check. This makes it a smart choice for those seeking a healthy French side dish.
A note on tradition
Livarot cheese is an iconic product of Normandy, a region famed for its lush pastures and dairy traditions. Historically, Livarot was a staple on Norman farms and is still produced using time-honored methods today. Traditionally, it is enjoyed as part of a cheese course or as a side with bread and crisp vegetables, especially during festive family meals and gatherings.