The 4-Ingredient Appetizer I've Made 4 Times This Week

To know cheese is to love it. And I really love it. But that doesn’t mean I know all the different kinds. After all, the world of cheese is vast and ever-changing—and it seems there’s always something new to discover.

So when I was introduced to farmer's cheese this summer as a new way to make caprese bites and edible "cookie dough," I was all in. Especially since I was already a big fan of the similar styles of fresh cheese I grew up with.

What Is Farmer's Cheese?

Farmer's cheese is a soft, fresh cheese that is a drier, tangier version of ricotta or cottage cheese. The name comes from traditional cheese-making methods used by farmers back in the day, who would whip up this simple concoction by adding acid to milk, straining out the curds, and pressing out excess moisture. The result is still the same today: a creamy yet somewhat crumbly cheese—perfect for use in recipes like classic pierogies or comforting dumplings. It can also stand on its own, spread on toast, or enjoyed with fruit. This versatile cheese flies under the radar but should be highlighted for its smooth texture and big flavor boost.

How to Use Farmer's Cheese

Farmer's cheese is featured in many beloved dishes, but it can also be used in place of ricotta or cottage cheese in many cases. My go-to, if not homemade, is Lifeway Farmer Cheese (which has the added benefit of getting extra protein and probiotics into the mix). And, lucky for me, they offer recipe inspiration to go along with the delish product.

I started out by testing the brand's recipe for Farmer Cheese Cookie Dough, and it was the best "edible cookie dough" I've tried. It skips raw all-purpose flour in favor of almond flour—and my family couldn't stop eating it. Moreover, Lifeway also inspired the appetizer I've been making on repeat all season long.

The Easiest Caprese With a Farmer's Cheese Swap

Typically, I make any kind of caprese with mozzarella, and it's a favorite combination. But trying little toasts with the Lifeway Farmer Cheese, tomatoes, balsamic, and basil takes a classic in a different—not to mention cheaper—direction.

It also couldn't be easier to assemble in a few steps. Start with toasted or grilled bread, crackers, or even bagel or pita chips (added bonus: these make it a no-cook app if you want it to be!). Spread the cheese and top with halved cherry tomatoes, a drizzle of good balsamic, and fresh basil. You can finish up with salt and pepper, your favorite seasoning, or even lemon zest if desired for added oomph. And that's it. The creamy combo of the tangy cheese with the acidic tomatoes, the sweet vinegar, and the earthy basil is simply perfect. It's no wonder I've been throwing this together practically every other day lately. Who knew one swap could make for a summer full of flavor?

Next up, I'll be testing farmer's cheese out with different versions of toast and trying it in homemade gnocchi so I can skip the ricotta draining step.

If you're like me and this is a new idea, give it a try, bring some to a potluck, and tell all your friends. Sharing is caring—especially when it comes to cheese.