Kamil Perry
Marinated feta cheese is a simple and delicious dish that can be made in just a few minutes. It is a versatile appetiser that can be served with pita chips, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board. The key to making marinated feta cheese is to use high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the feta cheese and olive oil. The cheese can be marinated in a variety of herbs, spices, and other ingredients such as lemon zest, garlic, and chilli. The feta is typically cut into cubes and layered with the other ingredients in a jar, which is then filled with olive oil and sealed. The dish can be served immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks, allowing the flavours to meld and infuse.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Feta, preferably Greek or Danish |
| Cheese texture | Creamy, not crumbled |
| Oil | Extra virgin olive oil |
| Other ingredients | Herbs, chilli, lemon, black pepper, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes |
| Container | Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid |
| Storage | Refrigerated, bring to room temperature before serving |
| Preparation time | 5 minutes, marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight |
| Use | Appetiser, salad topping, sandwich spread, condiment |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right feta
The type of feta cheese you choose for your recipe is important, as it will determine the overall texture and taste of the dish. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right feta:
Texture
Feta cheese can range from firm and crumbly to soft and creamy, depending on the variety and how it is prepared. For marinated feta, you may prefer a creamier variety, such as Danish feta, which is similar in texture to cream cheese and is spreadable. Greek feta, on the other hand, tends to be harder and more crumbly.
Taste
Different types of feta cheese also vary in taste. Danish feta, for example, usually made with cow's milk, has a slightly sour taste. Greek feta, made with sheep and/or goat milk, has a tangy, buttery flavour. Other varieties, such as American feta, tend to be drier and crumblier, while Bulgarian feta is firmer and springier than Greek feta.
Availability and Cost
The availability and cost of feta cheese may also influence your decision. In some places, such as Australia, feta is widely available and reasonably priced. You may be able to find it pre-packaged or by weight at delicatessens. However, the cost of feta can vary depending on the variety and the region in which it is produced.
Dietary Restrictions
Consider any dietary restrictions or preferences when choosing feta cheese. For example, if you are avoiding cow's milk, you may prefer goat or sheep feta. There are also vegan feta cheese alternatives available, which are usually made from plant-based oils and proteins.
Recipe Requirements
Finally, consider the specific requirements of the recipe you are using. Some recipes may call for a particular type of feta cheese, such as Greek feta, to achieve an authentic flavour. In other cases, you may need a creamier variety of feta that can be easily spread or crumbled, depending on how you plan to serve it.
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Preparing the marinade
Next, cut the feta into bite-sized cubes. The size of the cubes is up to you, but most recipes suggest cutting the feta into 1-inch cubes. Place the feta cubes into a jar. If you plan to store the marinated feta for a longer period, it is recommended to use a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Now, it's time to add the marinade ingredients. You can customise the marinade to your taste, but typically, extra virgin olive oil, herbs, chilli, and lemon are used. Some recipes also include garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and black pepper. Layer the herbs, chilli, and any other ingredients you're using, then pour in enough olive oil to cover the ingredients completely.
Finally, seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator. The marinated feta will need to sit for at least 4 hours to allow the flavours to infuse, but it's even better if left overnight. The feta will last in the fridge for about 2-3 weeks if stored properly, and the leftover oil can be used for cooking or as a salad dressing.
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Storing the feta
Choosing the Right Container
Select a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid for storing your marinated feta. It is important to use a clean jar and lid, preferably sterilised, to prevent any contamination. A mason jar is a popular choice for this purpose.
Preparing the Feta
Cut the feta cheese into cubes of approximately 1-inch size. Smaller cubes provide a better surface area for the marinade to penetrate and also make for easier serving. Place the cubed feta into the jar, being careful not to break up the cheese.
Adding the Marinade
Layer the jar with your desired herbs, spices, and aromatics. Commonly used ingredients include rosemary, thyme, chilli peppers, garlic, and lemon zest. Pour in enough extra virgin olive oil to completely cover the feta and fill the jar. It is important to use high-quality olive oil to avoid bitterness and ensure the best flavour.
Storing Instructions
Seal the jar tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Marinated feta can last for around 2 to 3 weeks if stored properly. Always make sure the cheese is submerged in oil, and the jar is sealed between uses. Bring the marinated feta to room temperature before serving, as the oil may thicken when chilled.
Storing Leftovers
Once all the feta has been enjoyed, don't discard the leftover oil! The infused oil can be used for cooking, drizzling over salads, or as a delicious addition to a cheese board. The oil will last for a much longer period, so be sure to save it and enjoy those lingering flavours.
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How long to marinate
The length of time you should marinate feta cheese depends on the type of flavour you want to achieve. If you are in a hurry, you can marinate feta cheese for as little as 4 hours before serving. However, it is recommended to let the feta marinate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavours to meld.
If you want to make the feta ahead of time, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks. However, it is important to note that the herbs in the oil will lose their colour over time, so it is best to assemble the dish on the day of serving if possible.
- Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes (about 1 cm or 1/3 inch).
- Place the feta into a serving dish or jar.
- Add your desired herbs, spices, and other ingredients such as chilli, lemon rind, garlic, or black pepper.
- Pour extra virgin olive oil over the feta until it is completely covered.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in the fridge for at least 24 hours before serving.
- Bring the marinated feta to room temperature before serving, as the oil will thicken when chilled.
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Serving suggestions
Marinated feta is a versatile dish with many serving suggestions. It can be served as an appetizer, as part of a salad, or as a condiment for other dishes. Here are some specific ideas for how to use marinated feta:
Appetizers
Marinated feta is a great appetizer option and can be served with pita chips, crackers, crostini, or fresh-baked Turkish or pita bread. It can also be served as part of a mezze platter, alongside items like labneh, fried halloumi, or saganaki, or herbs, tomatoes, and cucumbers. For a charcuterie board, it can be paired with meats, cheeses, and other snacks.
Salads
Marinated feta is an excellent addition to salads, providing a tangy twist. It can be tossed into a Greek salad or any mixed green salad for an extra punch of flavor. It also pairs well with cherry tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Sandwiches and Wraps
Marinated feta can be used as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or Mediterranean-style grilled cheese sandwiches. It adds a delicious flavor that's hard to resist.
Condiment
Marinated feta can be used as a condiment or spooned over other dishes to add flavor. It can be a tasty topping for fish, chicken, or grilled meats. It can also be used as a spread for toast, especially when paired with sliced avocado.
Pastas
Adding marinated feta to pasta salads or dishes like roasted cherry tomato pasta can provide a tangy twist.
Leftover Oil
The leftover oil from marinated feta is packed with flavor and can be used in various ways. It can be used as a dressing for salads, a marinade for other dishes (such as chicken or seafood), or as a dip for bread.
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Frequently asked questions
To marinate feta cheese, cut the cheese into cubes and transfer them into a jar. Add your choice of herbs, spices, and aromatics, such as rosemary, thyme, chilli, lemon rind, and garlic. Pour in enough extra virgin olive oil to cover the ingredients and seal the jar. Store the jar in a cool, dry, and dark place to marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
It is recommended to use a block of creamy feta cheese for marinating, as crumbled feta tends to be drier and will not work as well in the recipe. Greek feta, Danish feta, or Bulgarian feta are all good options, each with its own unique texture and flavour profile.
Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for marinating feta cheese. However, if you don't have it on hand, you can use regular cooking olive oil instead. Avoid substituting olive oil with other types of oil.
Marinated feta cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-4 weeks if stored properly. It is important to use a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid and to keep the cheese submerged in oil at all times.
Marinated feta cheese is a versatile appetizer that can be served with pita chips, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board. It can also be added to salads, sandwiches, or used as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
