Randy Chandler
Marinated feta is a simple, cost-effective, and delicious appetiser that can be made in minutes. The creamy, tangy cheese is doused in olive oil and infused with herbs and spices, creating an irresistible dressing. The best olive oil to use is extra virgin olive oil, and it is important to use a good quality oil to avoid bitterness. The type of feta used can vary, but Greek feta is commonly used, and the cheese should be cut into cubes to absorb the flavours better. The feta is then placed in a jar or bowl and covered with olive oil, herbs, and spices. It is then ready to be served with pita chips, crackers, or fresh-baked Turkish bread.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | 5 minutes |
| Storage time | 2-3 weeks |
| Ingredients | Feta cheese, olive oil, lemon, herbs, chilli, garlic, black pepper |
| Equipment | Mason jar, bowl |
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What You'll Learn
How long does marinated feta cheese last in the fridge?
Marinated feta cheese can last for two to three weeks in the fridge if stored properly. The key to storing marinated feta cheese is to ensure that the cheese is always covered with olive oil and that the jar is tightly sealed. This will help to maintain the cheese's freshness and flavour.
When preparing the marinated feta cheese, it is recommended to slice or cube the feta cheese and place it in a mason jar. The feta cheese is then combined with olive oil and various herbs and spices such as lemon zest, oregano, parsley, chilli, and garlic.
Once prepared, the marinated feta cheese should be stored in a tightly sealed jar in the fridge. It is important to note that the olive oil may congeal in the refrigerator, so it is recommended to allow it to sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.
The leftover olive oil from the marinated feta cheese can be used as a salad dressing or marinade, even after the cheese has been consumed.
It is important to note that the shelf life of feta cheese in the fridge can be affected by various factors such as packaging, storage temperature, moisture content, and exposure to air. Properly sealed packaging and consistent refrigeration can help to prolong the shelf life of the marinated feta cheese.
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What type of olive oil is best for marinating feta cheese?
When it comes to choosing the best olive oil for marinating feta cheese, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the preferred option. Using a good quality EVOO is important to avoid the bitterness that can sometimes come through in lower-grade olive oils.
Look for an EVOO that is rich in flavour with a peppery finish. Greek Early Harvest and Spanish Hojiblanca are two examples of EVOOs with these characteristics.
Extra virgin olive oil has more flavour and aroma than regular olive oil, making it ideal for recipes like salad dressings, sauces, and dips. Its smoke point is lower than regular olive oil, so it should not be heated above 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
When marinating feta cheese, it is important to use a high-quality olive oil to complement the cheese. The feta cheese should be cut into cubes and combined with the olive oil and other ingredients, such as herbs and spices, in a sealed jar. This will allow the cheese to absorb the flavours and last for up to two to three weeks in the fridge.
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What container is best for marinating feta cheese?
When it comes to choosing a container for marinating feta cheese, a few key factors come into play. Firstly, the container should be made of glass or ceramic material to avoid any unwanted odours or flavours from plastic containers. Secondly, opt for a container with a wide mouth or opening, such as a mason jar, to facilitate easy filling and removal of the feta cheese. Thirdly, ensure that the container has a tight-fitting lid to create an airtight seal, preserving freshness and preventing spills. Finally, consider the size of the container; it should be large enough to accommodate the desired quantity of feta cheese and the marinade, allowing for adequate coverage of the cheese by the oil.
A mason jar is an ideal choice for marinating feta cheese. Its glass construction ensures no flavour contamination, and its wide mouth makes it easy to fill and remove the cheese. The tight-fitting lid helps to seal in flavours and maintain freshness. Additionally, mason jars are often available in various sizes, so you can choose one that best suits your desired batch size.
Another option is a glass canning jar, specifically a quart-sized jar, which provides a generous capacity for marinating feta cheese. Similar to the mason jar, the glass material and wide mouth are advantageous, and the lid ensures a secure seal. This type of jar is commonly used for canning and preserving foods, making it a reliable choice for long-term storage as well.
For smaller batches or individual servings, consider using a glass jar with a lid, such as a Weck jar or a Le Parfait jar. These jars offer the same benefits of odourless and flavourless storage, with the added convenience of a smaller portion size. They are also excellent for gifting your homemade marinated feta to friends and family.
Ultimately, the best container for marinating feta cheese is one that suits your batch size, allows for easy filling and removal of cheese, and has a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness. Remember to always use a glass or ceramic container to avoid any unwanted odours or flavours that may affect your marinated feta cheese.
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What are some good herbs and spices to add to the marinade?
Marinated feta cheese is a great appetizer and can be served with pita chips, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board. The best part is that it can be prepared in just 5 minutes!
To marinate feta cheese, you can use any type of olive oil, but it is recommended to use a good quality olive oil that is rich in flavor with a peppery finish. You can also infuse the olive oil with garlic by leaving crushed garlic in the oil overnight.
Now, for the fun part—the herbs and spices! You can use any herbs you like, such as thyme, rosemary, chives, oregano, parsley, and sage. If you want a bit of spice, add some dried red chili peppers, pepper flakes, or peppercorns. You can also add lemon zest or lemon peel for a hint of citrus. Here are some specific combinations you can try:
- Thyme, parsley, chilli, lemon, and garlic
- Oregano, parsley, lemon zest, and jalapeño
- Thyme, rosemary, Herbes de Provence, lemon zest, and red pepper
- Oregano, lemon zest, and jalapeño
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How long does the feta need to marinate for?
The length of time feta cheese needs to marinate depends on the recipe and your personal preference. Some recipes suggest that you marinate feta cheese overnight, while others claim that it takes only 5 minutes to prepare.
Leaving the feta to marinate for longer will allow the cheese to absorb more of the marinade's flavours. If you want to serve the marinated feta as a spread, you may want to marinate it for longer so that it becomes softer and easier to spread.
If you are short on time, you can still enjoy marinated feta in just 5 minutes. This method involves simply cubing the feta and combining it with olive oil, dried herbs, and chile pepper. This quick recipe is perfect for a last-minute appetizer or snack and can be served with pita chips, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board.
If you have more time, you can try a recipe that involves marinating the feta overnight. This will allow the flavours to meld and develop, resulting in a more complex and intense flavour. These recipes often involve additional ingredients such as lemon zest, garlic, and fresh herbs, which require more time to infuse their flavours into the olive oil and cheese.
Regardless of the recipe you choose, it is important to use high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the feta cheese and olive oil. This will ensure that your marinated feta tastes delicious, whether you prepare it in 5 minutes or leave it to marinate overnight.
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Frequently asked questions
If stored properly in a sealed jar, marinated feta cheese can last up to two to three weeks in the fridge. It's important to ensure that the cheese is always covered with olive oil.
It is recommended to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil that is rich in flavour with a peppery finish. Avoid using low-quality olive oil to prevent bitterness.
You can add various ingredients to the olive oil to infuse flavour, such as garlic, lemon zest, herbs (e.g. thyme, parsley, rosemary, oregano) and spices like chilli flakes or pepper.
Cut a block of feta cheese into cubes and place them in a jar or a shallow dish. Prepare your desired olive oil mixture and pour it over the feta cheese. Seal the jar tightly or cover the dish with cling film, and store it in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight to marinate.
