Dairy | Vegetarian Diet (if rennet-free) Keto

Feta Cheese

N/A (Derived from Milk) Allergens: Milk
feta cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Bovidae (Sheep/Goat)
  • Primary Cuisine Greek|Mediterranean
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Sheep's Milk|Goat's Milk

The Forktionary Angle

"Embracing the piquant punch of Greece's quintessential crumbly cheese."

Definition

A brined curd white cheese traditionally made in Greece from sheep's milk, or a mixture of sheep and goat's milk, known for its salty, tangy, and crumbly texture.

Sensory Profile

TasteSalty, Tangy, Pungent, Slightly Sour
TextureCrumbly, Creamy (when warmed)
AromaSharp, Briny
AcidityHigh

Technical Metrics

Calcium Content (per 100g)

~493mg

PDO Status Origin (EU)

Greece (2002)

Shelf Life (Refrigerated, Brined)

Up to 3 Weeks

Nutrition Facts

Per 28 g (1 oz)
Calories264 kcal
Total Fat21.3 g
Saturated Fat14.9 g
Trans Fat0.0 g
Cholesterol89 mg
Protein14.2 g
Total Carbohydrate4.1 g
Dietary Fiber0.0 g
Total Sugars4.1 g
Calcium493 mg
Iron0.7 mg
Potassium62 mg

Chef’s Secret

To reduce the saltiness of feta, soak it in cold water or milk for 15-30 minutes before serving. Store in its brine or fresh water.

Substitutions

Best Match

Goat Cheese (Chèvre)

1:1

Similar tangy, earthy flavor and crumbly texture, often less salty.

Halloumi Cheese

1:1

Salty, firm cheese that holds shape when cooked; lacks the crumbly texture.

Ricotta Salata

1:1

Salty, firm, and crumbly, but milder and less tangy.

Vegan Feta (Plant-based)

1:1

Dairy-free option mimicking the salty, tangy profile and crumbly texture.

Buying Guide

Look for feta stored in brine for best flavor and texture. Avoid dry, yellowed, or extremely crumbly blocks.

Flavor Pairings

Olives Tomatoes Cucumber Onions Watermelon Spinach Lamb Chicken Pasta Pita Bread Oregano.

Recipes Using Feta Cheese

Low Calorie Main Dish Low Carb European

Oopah Feta Chicken Breasts

This vibrant and flavorful Oopah Feta Chicken Breasts recipe is a delightful twist on classic baked chicken. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with creamy feta cheese, sweet tomatoes, crisp green peppers, and savory scallions, creating a colorful and delicious dish the whole family will love! Even feta skeptics will be won over by the tangy, bright flavors. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and your favorite green vegetable for a complete and satisfying meal.

See Complete Recipe
Potluck Greek Course Occasion

7 Layer Mediterranean Dip With Hummus

Wow your guests with this vibrant 7-Layer Mediterranean Dip! A stunning and delicious appetizer, this Greek-inspired recipe starts with creamy hummus and builds to a colorful masterpiece. Each layer bursts with fresh flavors, making it perfect for parties, game day, or a casual weeknight snack. Get ready for compliments galore! Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or oregano for extra color and zing.

See Complete Recipe
Salads European Main Ingredient Dinner Party

Acini Di Pepe Salad

This vibrant Acini Di Pepe salad is a light and flavorful delight, perfect for a summer lunch or a refreshing side dish. The tiny pasta pearls are tossed with juicy tomatoes, crunchy pine nuts, peppery radicchio, and fresh basil, all dressed in a simple yet elegant vinaigrette. Topped with creamy feta, this salad is sure to become a new favorite! (Courtesy of Cookworks)

See Complete Recipe
Main Ingredient Breads Course Seasonal

Al Fresco Bread

Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this rustic Al Fresco Bread recipe! This adaptable recipe allows you to create a delicious, crusty loaf bursting with fresh, flavorful ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or a delightful side dish. The key is using dry ingredients and building your filling strategically to prevent a soggy bottom. Enjoy the simple pleasure of fresh, homemade bread!

See Complete Recipe
Egg Free Vegetarian Salads Cuisine

Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad

Experience the vibrant flavors of Albania with this refreshing tomato and cucumber salad! A traditional Albanian starter, this recipe features equal parts juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. Inspired by a missionary cookbook, "From Bugs to Beans," this simple salad allows for endless customization – add your favorite herbs, cheeses, and olives to create your perfect version. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer, this salad is sure to become a new favorite.

See Complete Recipe
Brunch Taste Mood Main Ingredient Inexpensive

Armenian Cheese Rolls

These Armenian Cheese Rolls are unbelievably easy to make and perfect for a quick appetizer or party snack! Creamy, flavorful, and ready in under 15 minutes, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Inspired by a Zaar World Tour recipe, these savory rolls are a delicious twist on traditional snacks. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet elegant dish!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Main Dish Lunch Preparation

Armenian Dinner Sandwich

Experience the vibrant flavors of Armenia with this delicious and easy-to-make Armenian Dinner Sandwich recipe! A savory blend of beef, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables, all nestled in warm tortillas. This recipe is inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Armenia, a country bordering Turkey and Georgia, and offers a quick and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.

See Complete Recipe
Southwestern United States Appetizers Southwestern United States American

Avocado Tomato And Olive Salsa

This vibrant and flavorful Avocado Tomato & Olive Salsa is the perfect appetizer or side dish! A delightful blend of creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives, this versatile recipe is equally delicious scooped with tortilla chips, served as a refreshing salad, or used as a zesty dip. The quick prep time and minimal cooking make it ideal for weeknight meals or entertaining. We'll show you how to keep your avocados vibrant and green!

See Complete Recipe
European Cuisine European Brunch

Baked Greek Lemon Chicken

Experience the bright, zesty flavors of Greece with this irresistible Baked Greek Lemon Chicken recipe! Inspired by Festival Foods in Green Bay, this dish is incredibly easy to make and delivers restaurant-quality results in under an hour. Juicy chicken baked to perfection with lemon, herbs, and garlic – a crowd-pleasing meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
European 4 Hours Or Less Preparation European

Baked Ratatouille

A stunningly delicious Baked Ratatouille recipe, inspired by Gourmet Magazine and perfect for your next dinner party! This hearty, flavorful dish features tender eggplant, sweet bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all baked to perfection in a 9-inch pie dish. Impress your guests with this elegant and easy-to-follow recipe – a true crowd-pleaser from Zaar World Tour II.

See Complete Recipe
Brunch Shellfish Toddler Friendly Main Dish

Baked Shrimp With Tomatoes And Feta

This crowd-pleasing recipe, inspired by Martha Stewart, is incredibly simple yet delivers incredible flavor! Juicy shrimp bake alongside sweet tomatoes and salty feta, creating a dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Ready in under 40 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Easy 3 Steps Or Less To Go Preparation

Balsamic Cashew Pea Salad

This vibrant and refreshing Balsamic Cashew Pea Salad is the perfect picnic companion for summer! Light, sweet, and incredibly crunchy, this recipe (inspired by Trader Joe's!) skips the mayo for a lighter, healthier twist. Enjoy the tangy balsamic vinaigrette or substitute with your favorite balsamic vinegar for a customizable flavor experience. Get ready for a burst of summer in every bite!

See Complete Recipe
Pasta Rice And Grains Seafood Pasta Dietary

Barefoot Contessa's Roasted Shrimp And Orzo

Ina Garten's unbelievably easy and flavorful roasted shrimp and orzo pasta recipe! This 35-minute meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Tender shrimp, perfectly cooked orzo, and vibrant lemon-herb flavors combine for a dish that's both satisfying and elegant. Get ready to impress!

See Complete Recipe
High Calcium Number Of Servings Preparation Dietary

Basil And Feta Spread

This vibrant Basil & Feta Spread is the perfect appetizer! Creamy whipped feta cheese blends beautifully with fresh basil, garlic, and a touch of olive oil. Easy to make in minutes, this delicious dip is perfect for spreading on crostini, crackers, or vegetables. Impress your guests with this simple yet elegant recipe.

See Complete Recipe
Dinner Party 3 Steps Or Less Occasion Cuisine

Basil Feta Olive Toast

Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this easy-to-make Basil Feta Olive Toast! Crispy bread topped with creamy feta, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant basil – a perfect appetizer, snack, or light meal. This recipe is inspired by traditional Greek flavors and is ready in under 30 minutes.

See Complete Recipe
Low In Something Occasion Course 30 Minutes Or Less

Basil Scented Chicken Salad

This vibrant chicken salad recipe is bursting with fresh spring flavors! Made with fresh basil, spinach, and parsley, it's a quick and easy weeknight meal using a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready for a taste of springtime in every bite!

See Complete Recipe
Kid Friendly Meat Low Sodium Low Saturated Fat

Beef And Eggplant Stew Greek Crock Pot Version

Experience the taste of the Mediterranean with this hearty, slow-cooked Beef and Eggplant Greek Stew! Our adapted recipe delivers a rich, flavorful sauce, perfectly tender beef, and melt-in-your-mouth eggplant. The aromatic spices create an authentic Greek experience, and the stew is unbelievably delicious served over penne or rigatoni pasta. This easy crock-pot recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Cheese Diabetic Easy Preparation

Poached Egg Avocado Surprise

Elevate your breakfast routine with this delightful twist on classic poached eggs! This recipe combines creamy avocado with perfectly poached eggs on toasted sourdough for a satisfying and surprisingly quick meal. A perfect brunch recipe for weekend mornings or a healthy week day breakfast.

See Complete Recipe