Want to learn more about the salty, crumbly delight known as feta cheese? This article explains what feta is, covers its nutrition, suggests substitutes, and shares popular ways to enjoy it in recipes.
So, what is feta cheese?
Feta is a traditional Greek cheese made primarily from sheep’s milk and often blended with some goat’s milk. It’s a brined cheese with a firm yet crumbly texture that breaks apart easily, making it ideal for salads, pastries, and baked dishes.
What is feta cheese made from? Typically sheep’s milk, sometimes mixed with goat’s milk.
What does feta cheese taste like? Feta delivers a tangy, salty flavor with a sharp finish that complements fresh vegetables, olive oil, and herbs.
How many calories in feta cheese? A 1-ounce (about 28 g) serving contains roughly 75 calories.
Feta Cheese Nutrition
Nutrition for a 1-ounce serving of feta:
- 75 calories
- 6 g fat
- 1 g carbohydrate
- 0 g fiber
- 1 g sugar
- 4 g protein
Substitute for Feta Cheese
If you need an alternative to feta, queso fresco is a good choice. It has a similar crumbly texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor that works well in many of the same recipes.
Top 5 Feta Cheese Recipes
- Baked Feta Pasta
- Spinach and Feta Breakfast Wrap
- Whipped Feta Dip
- Cucumber, Tomato & Feta Salad
- Sheet-Pan Chicken Gyros with Feta
FAQ
Feta is lower in calories and fat than many cheeses and offers a good amount of protein and calcium, making it a nutritious option when enjoyed in moderation.
Pregnant women should choose feta made from pasteurized milk to reduce the risk of listeriosis. Always check the label to confirm pasteurization.
Feta is not strictly goat cheese. While it can contain some goat’s milk, it is traditionally made from sheep’s milk and has a distinct taste and texture from pure goat cheese.
Feta can be frozen, but its texture may change and become crumblier after thawing. For best results, freeze in an airtight container and use within a few months.
Feta softens and can melt to an extent when heated; baked feta dishes become creamy, though it won’t behave like a high-moisture melting cheese.
Yes. Feta is a dairy product, typically made from sheep and/or goat milk. Many find it easier to digest than some cow’s milk cheeses due to lower lactose content.
Feta is high in sodium and saturated fat, so it’s not recommended as a regular treat for dogs. Small amounts on rare occasions are less likely to cause harm, but check with your veterinarian first.
Unopened, refrigerated feta can last several weeks to a couple of months depending on packaging. Once opened, store it in brine or airtight container and use within about two weeks. Discard if it develops mold (beyond the normal rind) or an off smell.