How to Make Mimolette Vieille (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Mimolette Vieille is a celebrated French cheese from the northern region, known for its striking orange hue and distinctive, nutty flavor. Traditionally aged for at least 18 months, this cheese develops a firm, crumbly texture and a rich, complex taste that is cherished throughout France. Often referred to as 'Boule de Lille', Mimolette Vieille is typically served as a side or at the end of a meal, accompanied by fresh fruits, crisp greens, or rustic bread. This dish shines as a health-conscious choice when served with a vibrant French salad, allowing you to enjoy the full character of aged Mimolette while keeping your meal balanced and nourishing. Appreciated for its depth of flavor, Mimolette Vieille is a staple on French cheese boards and is often enjoyed during festive gatherings and casual lunches alike. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a wholesome salad, Mimolette Vieille brings a touch of French culinary heritage to your table, making it a must-try for cheese lovers and adventurous eaters.
Ingredients
- 100g Mimolette Vieille cheese (aged French cheese)
- 2 cups Mixed salad greens (mesclun or mâche)
- 4 small Radishes (thinly sliced)
- 6 Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2 tbsp Walnuts (roughly chopped)
- 1 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (classic French)
- 1 tbsp Fresh chives (finely chopped)
- to taste Black pepper (freshly ground)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the salad greens by rinsing them thoroughly in cold water a...
Prepare the salad greens by rinsing them thoroughly in cold water and drying with a salad spinner.
Step 2 · Slice the radishes thinly and halve the cherry tomatoes
Slice the radishes thinly and halve the cherry tomatoes. Add to the salad greens in a large bowl.
Step 3 · Roughly chop the walnuts and sprinkle over the salad mixture
Roughly chop the walnuts and sprinkle over the salad mixture.
Step 4 · In a small bowl
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of black pepper to create a classic French vinaigrette.
Step 5 · Slice the Mimolette Vieille into thin wedges or shavings using a ch...
Slice the Mimolette Vieille into thin wedges or shavings using a cheese knife or vegetable peeler.
Step 6 · Arrange the salad greens and vegetables on two plates
Arrange the salad greens and vegetables on two plates. Drizzle with vinaigrette and top with Mimolette slices.
Step 7 · Garnish with chopped chives if desired
Garnish with chopped chives if desired, and add a final twist of black pepper.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Mimolette Vieille salad is a healthy French side because it balances the richness of aged cheese with plenty of vegetables and nuts. The portion size is moderate, keeping calories in check, while the salad base ensures you receive plenty of vitamins and minerals. The recipe is vegetarian and can fit easily into a calorie-conscious meal plan, making it suitable for weight management and overall wellness.
A note on tradition
Mimolette Vieille hails from the Lille region in northern France and carries a rich history as a cheese favored by French royalty. Its unique color and texture make it a standout at French festive tables and cheese boards, especially during harvest celebrations and local markets. Traditionally enjoyed as a side or after the main course, Mimolette Vieille is an iconic representation of France's dedication to artisanal cheese-making.