Feta cheese is one of the world’s oldest known cheeses. It dates back to the 8th century BC when Cyclops Polyphemus stored milk in animal skins, discovering that it solidified into cheese.
In this article, you’ll discover how feta cheese is made, its nutritional value and how to enjoy feta cheese.
What is Feta Cheese?
Feta cheese is a brined, white cheese made primarily from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk. It has a tangy, salty flavor with a slightly creamy yet crumbly texture.
Traditionally, feta is aged in brine for at least two months, giving it its distinct sharpness and soft, moist consistency. It holds a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, meaning that only cheese made in certain regions of Greece can be legally called “feta” in the EU.
How is Feta Cheese Made?
Feta cheese begins with fresh sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk, which is warmed and combined with rennet and bacterial cultures. The curds are drained and transferred to molds, where they are lightly pressed to remove excess liquid while maintaining a soft texture.
After a short resting period, the cheese is cut into slices, giving feta its traditional shape. Once shaped, the cheese is salted and placed in a brine solution, which helps preserve it and develop its signature tangy flavor. The aging process lasts at least two months, allowing the cheese to mature and achieve its crumbly, yet creamy consistency.
Throughout this period, the brine continues to enhance its salty, slightly acidic taste. When fully aged, the feta is packaged and stored in brine until it is ready to be enjoyed.
Also read: 5 Must-Try Recipes Featuring Ricotta Cheese in Pizza
Types of Feta Cheese
Not all feta cheeses are the same. Greek feta remains the most famous, but other countries produce variations with distinct characteristics.
| Type | Origin | Milk Used | Flavor Profile |
| Greek Feta | Greece | Sheep’s milk (or up to 30% goat’s milk) | Salty, tangy, creamy, crumbly |
| Bulgarian Feta (Sirene) | Bulgaria | Sheep’s milk | Strong, tangy, slightly creamy |
| French Feta | France | Sheep’s milk or cow’s milk | Mild, creamy, less salty |
| Danish Feta | Denmark | Cow’s milk | Soft, smooth, milder in taste |
Each type offers a different experience, but Greek feta remains the gold standard for those seeking an authentic, bold flavor.
Nutritional Value of Feta Cheese
Feta provides essential nutrients while being lower in fat than many aged cheeses.
Key Nutrients in Feta Cheese (per 100g)
- Calories: ~265 kcal
- Protein: ~14g
- Fat: ~21g
- Calcium: ~493mg (50% of daily needs)
- Sodium: ~900mg (high due to brining)
It also contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health. These live bacteria help digestion and may contribute to improved immune function. The combination of calcium and protein supports bone health, making it a strong dietary choice.
How to Use Feta Cheese in Cooking
Feta’s tangy and salty notes make it an excellent addition to both hot and cold dishes. Its crumbly texture and bold taste enhance everything from salads to baked dishes.
1. Classic Greek Salad
A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, Greek salad features feta cheese combined with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a simple olive oil dressing.
2. Baked Feta with Honey
Baking feta cheese with honey and sesame seeds creates a sweet-savory appetizer that pairs well with bread or crackers.
3. Feta in Pastries
Feta is often used in Greek pastries like Spanakopita, a spinach and feta-filled phyllo dough pie.
4. Crumbled Over Roasted Vegetables
Feta’s salty tanginess enhances the sweetness of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant.
5. Feta Pasta
The viral baked feta pasta trend showcases how well feta melts into creamy sauces when roasted with tomatoes and garlic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Feta Cheese
Is feta cheese healthy?
Yes, feta cheese is rich in calcium, protein, and probiotics, but it is also high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation.
Is feta cheese dairy?
Yes, feta cheese is a dairy product made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep and goat’s milk.
Can I freeze feta cheese?
Yes, feta cheese can be frozen, but it may become more crumbly and lose some of its creamy texture after thawing.
Wrapping Up: What Is Feta Cheese?
Feta cheese is a brined, white cheese made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep and goat’s milk, known for its tangy, salty flavor and crumbly texture.
Feta can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from crumbling it over salads and roasted vegetables to baking it with honey or blending it into pasta dishes.
