Bel Gioioso, Belgioioso Cheese Inc. · 28 g
BelGioioso Ricotta Salata Italian Feta Cheese
What it is
This is a firm, brined cheese made from cow's milk. It is a type of ricotta that has been pressed, salted, and aged. This process gives it a dense texture and a salty, tangy flavor. It is often sold in a block or pre-crumbled form. The cheese is white and has a crumbly yet firm consistency.
How people cook with it
Ricotta salata is a versatile cheese that adds a salty punch to many dishes. It is excellent for finishing or incorporating into recipes.
- Crumbled over salads
- Grated into pasta dishes
- Cubed in appetizers
- Shaved onto roasted vegetables
To use, you can grate it over hot pasta or vegetables just before serving. It melts slightly but retains its shape, providing pockets of salty flavor. For salads, crumble it over greens or grains. It can also be cubed and added to antipasto platters or skewered with fruits and vegetables. Its firm texture makes it easy to handle and incorporate into various culinary applications. The saltiness is a key characteristic that enhances other ingredients.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike fresh ricotta, which is soft and creamy, ricotta salata is firm and dry due to pressing and aging. Its flavor is significantly saltier and more pronounced than fresh ricotta, making it more akin to a grating cheese or a brined cheese like feta, though with its own distinct profile.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use this cheese to add a distinctive salty and firm cheese element to their creations.
How to keep the rest
After opening, wrap any remaining cheese tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within a few days to maintain its optimal texture and flavor. Avoid letting it dry out.