Feta Cheese

It’s typically made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk. Characterized by its tangy, salty flavor and crumbly texture, feta cheese is a protected designation of origin product, meaning that only those cheeses manufactured in a traditional way in Greece’s “feta” moniker may refer to certain regions. It’s commonly used in salads and pastries and is known for its ability to pair well with many ingredients.

health benefits of feta cheese:

• Rich in Calcium: Feta cheese is high in calcium, a nutrient that’s crucial for bone health.
• Good Source of Protein: It provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Contains Probiotics: Feta, like many fermented foods, contains beneficial bacteria known as probiotics, which are good for digestive health.
• Lower Fat and Calories: Compared to many other cheeses, feta cheese is lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier choice for those watching their calorie intake.

international dishes using feta cheese:

Greek Salad: Perhaps the most well-known dish featuring feta cheese, a classic Greek salad combines tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onions, and feta.

Spanakopita: This Greek spinach pie uses feta cheese mixed with spinach and herbs, all wrapped in flaky phyllo dough.

Turkish Pide: Feta is often used as a topping in this Turkish flatbread pizza.

Israeli Shakshuka: While not a traditional ingredient in shakshuka, feta adds a nice creamy tanginess to this Middle Eastern dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce.

Italian Pasta: Feta can be used in place of traditional Italian cheeses for a Mediterranean twist on pasta dishes.

Spanakopita

cooking tips:

• Balancing Flavor: Feta’s salty flavor can be balanced in dishes with sweet, sour, or spicy ingredients.
• Crumbling: Feta is typically crumbled over dishes, but can also be cut into cubes or slices depending on the recipe.
• Melting: While feta doesn’t melt as smoothly as some other cheeses, it can be baked or broiled until it becomes soft and slightly golden.
  

Nutrition facts:

Calories: 264 kcal

Total Fat: 21g

Saturated Fat: 15g

Cholesterol: 89mg

Sodium: 1116mg

Total Carbohydrates: 4g

Sugars: 4g

Protein: 14g

Calcium: 493mg

Vitamin A: 125µg

Vitamin D: 0.5µg

Storage instructions:

• Keep it in Brine: Feta should be stored in the brine it comes in to prevent drying out.
• Refrigerate: Always store feta cheese in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
• Use within a week: Once opened, feta cheese should be used within a week.
• Freezing: Feta can be frozen for up to three months, but expect a change in texture upon thawing.
• In prepared meals, it’s better to use frozen feta.

The unique flavor profile of feta cheese is a welcome addition to any food lover’s pantry. Its rich tanginess and crumbly texture make it an ideal ingredient to enhance the taste and appearance of a myriad of dishes. With its impressive health benefits, it’s not only a delicious choice, but a nutritious one too. Whether you’re making a Greek salad, a Turkish pide, or simply sprinkling it over your favorite pasta, feta cheese will make your culinary creations shine. So why not bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen with feta cheese? You won’t regret it!