Président Feta Facts

Feta Cheese’s Origin, Benefits, and Delicious Uses  

Feta cheese is a year-round staple of Mediterranean cuisine, known for its crumbly texture, salty, tangy flavor, and incredible versatility. So, whether you’re sprinkling it on a Greek salad or baking it on top of pizza, feta is a beloved staple in kitchens all over the world.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything there is to know about feta cheese. Starting with how it’s made, its Greek origins, its current place in Mediterranean cuisine, how it’s stored, as well as the best ways to cook with it — plus frequently asked questions about using it in your own culinary creations!

WHAT IS FETA CHEESE?

Feta is a fresh white cheese with a crumbly texture and tangy bite. Its renowned flavor comes from the salted aging process it undergoes, and its richness comes from whichever variety of milk is used to make it. 

TYPES OF FETA

There are several forms of feta that are popular around the world. First is the original Greek variety made primarily from sheep’s milk (or blended with up to 30% goat’s milk.)  This type of feta is uniquely protected by a “PDO” or Protected Designation of Origin in Europe, meaning only certain regions in Greece can produce PDO Greek feta. Then the most commonly consumed version in North America is made from cow’s milk. They are all equally delicious, and important, just made from whichever dairy producing animals are indigenous to the region.

FETA’S ORIGINS

Feta cheese has roots in Ancient Greece, dating back centuries. It’s even mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey. Traditionally produced by shepherds, feta has been a dietary staple in the region for generations. Today, it is one of Greece’s most famous food exports and is internationally recognized as a symbol of Mediterranean heritage. Feta in all its forms has come a long way since its humble origins and is a cheese staple used in cooking across the globe now.

HOW FETA CHEESE IS MADE

Making feta always starts with milk, which is then curdled before being cut, drained, salted, and packed into molds before aging for several weeks. This process gives feta its distinct salty flavor and crumbly texture. Some varieties, like barrel-aged feta, offer an even more intense, tangy profile. The cheese is then sold either chunked or crumbled, or as a block in brine.

COOKING WITH FETA

Feta can go on almost anything and be utilized year-round to give your food a fresh tangy flavor. It goes great with ingredients like honey, spinach, watermelon, strawberries, olives, and your favorite fresh herbs. 

While Feta can be a great addition to your favorite salad, there are many adventurous and unexpected ways to cook with feta, whether you’re making it the star of a warm pasta or crumbling it over a delicious pizza or flatbread. With a world of possibilities, there are some crowd-pleasers, and perennial favorite dishes that people keep coming back to for good reason.   

Salads

Feta is a star ingredient in a variety of salads—ranging anywhere from pasta salads to Greek salads—pairing beautifully with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onions. Its salty profile enhances other fresh ingredients in both cold and warm salads, which are particularly popular in the summer.

Baked Pasta

From this viral baked feta pasta to savory pies like spanakopita, feta transforms beautifully in the oven. It softens into a rich, creamy texture, and will warm you up on cold winter days.

Spreads & Dips

Blend feta into creamy dips like traditional Mediterranean tirokafteri or whip it with herbs, garlic, or roasted red peppers for a more savory spread. It goes perfect with pita, or as a topping for grilled vegetables, and is always a crowd pleaser.

Pizzas & Flatbreads

Try crumbling feta over a hot pizza or flatbread for a delicious salty addition to juicy tomatoes and basil. Cook atop Naan bread for a beautiful warm shareable dish at your next gathering.

Mexican-Inspired Cooking

Feta’s salty, tangy flavor makes it a natural complement to Mexican-inspired dishes. Try crumbling it over tacos or burritos for a creamy addition to bold spices, or sprinkle it on top of huevos rancheros for a fresh, flavorful twist.

Sandwiches & Wraps

Feta is an easy addition to everyday quick bites like sandwiches, burgers, or wraps, adding a fresh contrast to meats and veggies. Just sprinkle it on for instant flavor that makes each bite more satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I substitute feta cheese in non-feta recipes?

Absolutely! Feta can be a great alternative for goat cheese, ricotta, or any variety of dishes that you’re wanting to give a flavorful, fresh tangy twist.

Does feta cheese melt like other cheeses?

While Feta won’t melt into a gooey texture, it does soften very nicely, making it great to include in dishes like stuffed peppers, omelets, stuffed baguettes, and even savory tarts which can be enjoyed whenever the craving hits! 

How do I store feta cheese?

Feta should always be refrigerated. Prolonged periods in warm temperatures will cause the cheese to spoil more quickly. Store feta in a cool, dry place to ensure it stays fresh.

How can you tell if feta cheese has gone bad?

Check the smell, texture, and color. If something seems off — don’t eat it!