Andy Montoya
Feta cheese is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its salty and tangy flavour. While it is commonly used in salads and pastries, feta cheese can also be roasted or baked, creating a warm and creamy texture. Roasted feta cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer with pita bread or chips, or as a topping for soups, salads, and pasta. The baking process involves heating the feta in an oven at temperatures ranging from 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 45 minutes, resulting in a softened or lightly browned cheese. Various ingredients can be added to enhance the flavour, such as olive oil, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Oven temperature | 350-400°F |
| Baking time | 15-45 minutes |
| Cheese type | Cow's milk, sheep's milk, or goat's milk feta |
| Cheese origin | Greece, France, Bulgaria |
| Cheese texture | Creamy, not melty |
| Oil | Extra virgin olive oil |
| Herbs | Oregano, thyme, fresh basil |
| Spices | Red pepper flakes, black pepper |
| Bread | Pita, focaccia, homemade |
| Accompaniments | Tomatoes, bell peppers, red onions, chickpeas, lemon juice, olives, zucchini, kale, collard greens, walnuts, rosemary, shallots, garlic |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right feta cheese
Type of Feta Cheese
Look for a block of feta cheese, preferably made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk. Sheep's milk feta is known for its creaminess, adding a rich and indulgent texture to your roasted feta dish. It is also worth mentioning that French or Bulgarian white cheese, while not technically called feta, can be excellent alternatives and provide a similar taste experience.
Freshness and Quality
Opt for a quality block of feta cheese that is fresh and has a good reputation. Check the ingredient list to ensure it is made with simple, high-quality ingredients. The cheese should be soft and creamy, with a tangy and salty flavour profile. Avoid pre-crumbled feta, as it tends to be drier and may not melt as well when roasted.
Source of Milk
In addition to sheep's milk, feta cheese is also commonly made from cow's milk. While cow's milk feta is a good option, it may not have the same level of creaminess as sheep's milk feta. If you prefer a stronger flavour, goat's milk feta is another alternative that can add a tangy twist to your dish.
Texture
When choosing feta cheese for roasting, consider the texture you want to achieve. For a meltier, gooier consistency, opt for a block of feta that is less processed. The processing methods can impact the cheese's ability to melt and affect the overall texture of your dish.
Availability and Accessibility
Feta cheese is widely available in grocery stores, especially in the specialty cheese section. If you have access to a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern store, you may find a diverse selection of feta cheeses, including Bulgarian sheep feta, which is an excellent choice for roasting.
In summary, when choosing the right feta cheese for roasting, opt for a fresh, soft, and creamy block of sheep's milk feta or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk. Avoid pre-crumbled feta, and don't be afraid to explore alternatives like Bulgarian or French white cheese. Remember to check the ingredients and select a quality product that will transform into a warm, luscious, and addictive treat when roasted.
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Oven temperature and duration
The oven temperature and duration for roasting feta cheese depend on the recipe and the desired outcome. Feta cheese can be baked in an oven at temperatures ranging from 350°F to 400°F for 15 to 45 minutes.
For example, one recipe recommends baking feta cheese at 350°F for 15 minutes until softened. Another recipe suggests baking feta cheese at 400°F for 30 minutes, followed by an additional 10 minutes at a higher temperature to achieve a golden colour.
It is important to note that feta cheese does not melt like other cheeses but will soften and become creamy when baked. The duration of baking depends on the desired texture and colour. For a softer and creamier feta, a shorter baking time is recommended, while a longer baking time will result in a firmer and more browned cheese.
Additionally, the oven temperature and duration can be adjusted based on personal preference and the specific recipe being followed. Some recipes may include additional ingredients that require different cooking times or temperatures. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on the feta cheese while it is in the oven to ensure it does not overcook or burn.
Furthermore, the type of feta cheese used can also affect the oven temperature and duration. Different varieties of feta cheese, such as Greek, French, or Bulgarian, may have varying moisture content and melting points, which can impact the baking process.
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Adding herbs and spices
Feta is a tangy, salty cheese that can be roasted or baked and is a popular ingredient in Greek cuisine. When baked, feta develops a warm and creamy texture and taste.
Herbs and spices can be added to baked feta to enhance its flavour. Oregano is a popular choice, as is thyme, which has a subtly minty and slightly lemony flavour. Fresh herbs are always preferable, but dried oregano can be purchased cheaply and adds a lot of flavours. Basil is another option, and rosemary can be added for an earthy touch. If you like your food spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper. Ground sumac adds a citrusy, tart kick to feta-based dishes.
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Serving suggestions
Roasted feta cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:
Appetizers and Snacks
Roasted feta cheese makes a great appetizer or snack. Simply bake the feta in the oven until softened and lightly browned, then serve with pita chips, grain-free chips, pita bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping. You can also spread the warm, creamy feta on crusty bread or baguette slices, topped with roasted tomatoes or vegetables. For a more substantial appetizer, serve the roasted feta with a side of grilled meatballs or smoky whole eggplant.
Salads
Feta cheese is a well-known addition to Greek salads, but it can also be used to create unique and flavorful salads. Try a barley and fresh crispy veggie salad with feta, or a quinoa and roasted veggie salad. For a sweet twist, add cubes of watermelon stuffed with creamy feta and garnished with fresh basil. Feta also pairs well with sweet potato salad, where it adds a salty contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes and dried cranberries.
Main Courses
Roasted feta can be incorporated into main courses in several ways. Bake it with olive oil, tomatoes, and oregano, and serve it with pita bread or focaccia for a simple, flavorful meal. For a heartier option, try a rustic tart filled with roasted beets and feta cheese, or a traditional Greek spinach pie (spanakopita). Feta also pairs well with salmon—serve the fish with a feta-yogurt sauce on the side, or over a bed of arugula salad or spinach.
Breakfast
Leftover roasted feta can be crumbled into scrambled eggs or baked eggs for a tasty breakfast. For a sweeter option, try baked feta with blueberries, served with crackers, toasted bread, or even graham crackers and shortbread cookies.
Sides
As a side dish, roasted feta can be crumbled over zucchini or added to a traditional Greek salad with kalamata olives and a drizzle of olive oil. It also pairs well with roasted sweet potatoes, lentils, and mushrooms, or as a feta-tahini sauce.
With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, roasted feta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes. These suggestions are just a starting point, and you can experiment with your own combinations to find your favorite ways to enjoy roasted feta.
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Recipe variations
There are numerous ways to roast or bake feta cheese, and it can be a very simple dish or part of a more complex recipe.
One of the simplest ways to roast feta is to bake a block of the cheese in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil and a few pinches of oregano and thyme. This can be served with bread or pita chips.
Feta can also be baked with other ingredients, such as bell peppers, red onions, cherry tomatoes, or chickpeas. This can be served as a dip or a side dish. For a more substantial meal, feta can be baked with pasta, using a similar method to the simple bake. The feta is roasted with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, and then tossed with cooked pasta and lemon zest.
Feta can also be fried or grilled. One recipe coats feta slices in egg wash and quinoa before pan-frying and serving with roasted bread, squash, and radicchio. Another idea is to stuff cubes of watermelon with feta and garnish with basil.
Feta is also used in more complex recipes, such as a chilled soup made with sour cream and milk, or a dip made with buttermilk and goat's milk feta, served with crostini. Baked feta can also be served with scrambled eggs for breakfast.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to use a block of quality Greek feta cheese. French or Bulgarian white cheese will also work. Avoid using crumbled feta as it is too dry.
Set your oven to 400 degrees F.
Bake the feta for 25-30 minutes. If the cheese needs more colour, put it under the broiler for a few minutes.
