When the heat rolls in and the sun demands lighter, fresher meals, one essential always seems to make it onto our summer plates: mozzarella. But did you know this delicious, tomato-loving cheese could actually be your health ally all season long?

Mozzarella: The Star of Summer Tables

Mozzarella, with its soft, stretchable texture and mild taste, is more than just a pretty face in caprese salads, paninis, or wraps. While it may seem like an obvious choice for light, breezy lunches, this Italian cheese actually brings more to the table than you might expect.

It’s not just tasty—it’s got a solid nutrition resume. Mozzarella is a good source of protein, calcium and phosphorus, all nutrients that are crucial for strong, healthy bones. Traditional Buffalo milk mozzarella is delicious and creamy, but if you’re after a protein boost, cow’s milk mozzarella is the way to go. According to nutritionist Alexandra Retion:

Cow’s milk mozzarella delivers about 18 to 20 g of protein per 3.5 oz (100 g), while the buffalo version contains around 14 to 17 g for the same amount.

Not only is the cow’s milk option slightly higher in protein, it’s also a touch lower in fat.

Refreshing, Light and Hydrating

One of mozzarella’s summer superpowers is its high water content—over 60%! That means biting into a ball of mozzarella is basically like hydrating in cheese form (albeit a little more fun than plain water). This makes it the perfect companion for crisp, fresh salads.

Take this practical tip to heart: if you want to maximise mozzarella’s benefits, pair it with water-rich foods like tomatoes, cucumber, or even watermelon. The result? A meal that’s light, satisfying—and exactly what your body craves during scorching summer days.

How Much is Too Much?

From a nutritional standpoint, yes—you can eat mozzarella every day in the summer, as long as you stick with a reasonable serving. The expert recommendation is to keep your portion between 1.75 and 2 ounces (50 to 60 g) per person, which is about half a standard mozzarella ball (4.2 oz / 120 g). That’s enough to get all the joy and benefits, without overdoing the fat content, which sits between 17 and 22 g per 100 g. Let’s face it—those numbers can add up if you’re eating mozzarella like there’s no tomorrow!

If you want to upgrade your summer staple, don’t be shy with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil and some cherry tomatoes. It’s a timeless combo that’s bursting with those classic Mediterranean flavors.

A Few Notes and Ideas for Everyday Enjoyment

There are a few caveats: if you have high blood pressure, water retention, or are taking medications like corticosteroids, it’s wise to limit your mozzarella intake due to its salt content.

Mozzarella is tailor-made for quick, tasty meals—just what you need when the weather’s hot. Here are some simple ways to work it into your seasonal menu:

  • Slice it over fresh tomato salads with basil and balsamic glaze
  • Stuff it into paninis with grilled veggies
  • Add it to whole-grain wraps with crunchy greens
  • Pair it with melon or watermelon for a sweet-salty twist

Practical tip: To keep things balanced, remember to rotate your protein sources. Complement your cheesy creations with legumes or whole grains—they play nicely together!

So, mozzarella truly earns its spot as a summer favorite—delicious, hydrating, packed with nutrition, and endlessly easy to add to your repertoire of fresh, simple dishes. Enjoy the pleasure of cooking and sharing, one creamy bite at a time!

Mathilde, web writer and passionate home cook, loves to share accessible recipes, practical tips and creative ideas to inspire all food lovers. Her motto? Cooking and sharing should always be a pleasure.