Grocery · 8 oz
Feta Cheese, 8 oz
What it is
This is a brined curd white cheese made from sheep's milk, or from a mixture of sheep and goat's milk. It originates from Greece and is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. The cheese has a crumbly texture and a salty, tangy flavor profile. It is typically sold in blocks or crumbles, often packed in brine to preserve its freshness and distinctive taste. The brining process contributes significantly to its characteristic sharp and refreshing quality.
How people cook with it
Feta cheese is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. It adds a bright, salty punch to a wide variety of dishes.
- Sprinkled over salads
- Crumbled into omelets
- Baked into pastries
- Added to pasta dishes
Feta cheese is often used as a topping or ingredient rather than being melted down completely. Its crumbly nature makes it ideal for sprinkling over salads, vegetables, or grilled meats. It can also be incorporated into baked goods like spanakopita or savory pies, where it retains some of its texture. When used in hot dishes, it softens and becomes creamy, infusing the food with its signature salty and tangy notes. It pairs well with herbs, lemon, and olive oil.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike many other cheeses that melt smoothly, feta retains a distinct crumbly texture even when warmed. Its brined nature gives it a pronounced saltiness and a tangy flavor that is more assertive than many other fresh cheeses. This unique characteristic makes it stand out in culinary applications.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use feta to add a distinctive Mediterranean flavor to their meals.
How to keep the rest
To keep leftover feta cheese fresh, ensure it remains submerged in its brine or a light saltwater solution. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If the brine is discarded, wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It should be consumed within a few days for optimal flavor.