Bushra Griffith
Feta cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including pizza. Whether you're a fan of white pizza or prefer a more traditional tomato-based pie, feta can add a tangy, bold flavor to your creation. When making a pizza with feta cheese, it's important to keep in mind that feta doesn't melt like other cheeses, so it's often paired with mozzarella to achieve a creamy texture. In terms of toppings, feta pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including garlic, spinach, onions, tomatoes, and olives. For a truly Mediterranean flavor, try a Greek pizza topped with feta, olives, and oregano.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Feta |
| Base | Pizza dough, preferably no-knead |
| Other Ingredients | Red onions, tomatoes, oregano, Greek olives, mozzarella, olive oil, garlic, basil, spinach, bell peppers, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, thyme leaves, chilli flakes, oregano, salt, pepper, brown sugar |
| Bake Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Bake Temperature | 400°F-500°F |
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What You'll Learn
Feta and mozzarella make a great pair
When making a pizza with feta and mozzarella, it's important to note that feta doesn't melt in the same way as mozzarella. So, if you want a melty cheese pizza, it's a good idea to use a combination of both cheeses. This way, you can still enjoy the unique flavour of feta while achieving the desired texture.
There are several popular pizza recipes that feature feta and mozzarella. One is a Greek pizza, which combines these two cheeses with ingredients like red onions, tomatoes, oregano, olives, and extra virgin olive oil. This pizza is a flavourful and colourful creation, often made with a no-knead dough base. Another option is a White Feta Cheese Pizza, which includes garlic, red onion, and basil, along with feta and mozzarella. This pizza is a "white pizza," meaning it doesn't have any sauce, allowing the flavours of the cheese and other toppings to shine through.
When preparing a pizza with feta and mozzarella, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, if you're using store-bought pizza dough, let it come to room temperature before stretching it out to fit your pan. This makes the dough easier to work with. Second, if you're using feta, it's recommended to get a block of feta in brine for the best flavour. Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of toppings and cheeses, like adding pepperoni or pineapple, to find your perfect pizza!
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Feta is a soft cheese with attitude
When using feta on your pizza, it is best to get a block of feta in brine. You can use it alongside other cheeses such as mozzarella, burrata, kasseri or provolone. Feta is a great ingredient for a simple yet delicious homemade pizza. It is also a good substitute for goat's cheese.
If you are making a Greek pizza, you can combine feta with tomatoes, onions, oregano, olives, spinach and extra virgin olive oil. You can also add some minced garlic, red pepper flakes, fresh basil and chilli flakes. For a white pizza, you can combine feta with garlic, red onion, seasonings and shredded mozzarella.
For a simple Greek pizza, you can follow these steps: First, make your pizza dough or use store-bought dough. Then, roast your vegetables. This can include tomatoes, onions, oregano and olive oil. Meanwhile, stretch the dough into a rectangular shape. After that, top with mozzarella, feta, roasted veggies, olives and oregano. Spray with extra virgin olive oil and bake in the oven until golden and crusty.
There are many ways to use feta on a pizza, and it is a great way to add flavour and texture to your meal.
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Feta and ricotta are not interchangeable
Feta is a Greek curd cheese made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep and goat's milk. It is crumbly yet moist, tangy, bold, and salty, with a distinct flavour that may not appeal to everyone. It is a versatile topping that pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including Mediterranean combinations like olives, tomatoes, and oregano, or vegetables like spinach and roasted red peppers. Feta does not melt, so it is often used alongside other cheeses like mozzarella, which provides a creamy texture to balance the tanginess of feta.
On the other hand, ricotta is a soft, crumbly, and slightly sweet cheese. It has a creamy texture and is known to pair well with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. Ricotta can be used as a topping or stuffed into the pizza crust, adding an extra layer of flavour and a stunning visual appeal. While some people enjoy ricotta on their pizzas, others prefer it in dishes like lasagna or baked ziti.
When deciding between feta and ricotta for your pizza, consider the desired flavour profile and texture. Feta will provide a salty, tangy, and crumbly element, while ricotta will contribute a creamy, sweet, and soft texture. Both cheeses can elevate a pizza, but they offer distinct sensory experiences.
Additionally, feta and ricotta differ in their production methods and origins. Feta is traditionally made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep and goat's milk, while ricotta is typically made from cow's milk or a combination of cow's and sheep's milk. The production processes vary, resulting in distinct flavours and textures.
In summary, while both feta and ricotta can be used on pizzas, they offer unique characteristics in terms of flavour, texture, and visual appeal. Consider your specific pizza goals and preferences when choosing between these two cheeses, as they will undoubtedly contribute to very different culinary experiences.
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Feta doesn't melt, so bake it with the pizza
Feta is a soft cheese with a bold, tangy flavour and a crumbly yet moist texture. It is an excellent ingredient for homemade pizza, adding a ton of flavour. However, feta does not melt like other cheeses, so it should be baked with the pizza to ensure it is cooked properly.
When using feta on a pizza, it is best to get a block of feta in brine. You can also use Israeli or Bulgarian feta, but avoid fat-free feta as it is dry and tasteless. Feta can be used as the only cheese on a pizza, but if you prefer a melty texture, it can be combined with mozzarella or another melting cheese. Mozzarella, in particular, is a good complement to feta as it has a creamy texture and a milder flavour.
To make a pizza with feta, start by preparing your pizza dough and preheating your oven. If using dough that has been refrigerated, take it out of the fridge 30 minutes to one hour before you start cooking to bring it to room temperature, which is easier to work with. Stretch the dough and place it on a piece of parchment paper, which will make it easier to transfer the pizza to the oven without ruining the shape and toppings.
Before baking, some recipes suggest brushing the dough with olive oil, which can add flavour and help achieve a crispy crust. You can then add your toppings, including the feta, and bake the pizza. Baking times and temperatures vary depending on the recipe and the type of dough used, but a common baking time is around 20 minutes at 400°F to 500°F/260°C.
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Feta and spinach are a match made in Greece
Start by preparing the dough. You can use store-bought pizza dough, or make your own with flour, yeast, salt, water, and olive oil. If using store-bought, let it sit out for about an hour to come to room temperature. If you're feeling adventurous, try this no-knead dough recipe: combine all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, water, and olive oil in a large bowl. No kneading is required!
While the dough rests, prepare the toppings. Chop and sauté the baby spinach with garlic and onion. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, canned artichokes, roasted bell peppers, or other vegetables of your choice. For the cheese, crumble a block of feta with your fingers—it tastes better than the pre-crumbled option. You can also add mozzarella for that classic pizza cheesiness.
Now it's time to assemble. Roll or stretch the dough to your desired size. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. Top with the mozzarella, followed by the spinach mixture, and finally, the feta.
Bake the pizza in a preheated oven until golden and crusty. The baking time will depend on your oven and the type of dough you're using. Some recipes suggest baking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, while others recommend 450 or even 465. Adjust the temperature and baking time as needed.
Before serving, add some final touches. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes will enhance the flavours. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding fresh dill for a bright, herby finish.
And there you have it—a delicious Greek-inspired pizza with feta and spinach. It's a match made in heaven, or should we say, Greece!
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Frequently asked questions
It is always best to get a block of feta in brine, such as MtVikos or Dodoni. Israeli or Bulgarian feta are suitable substitutes.
Feta is a Greek cheese, so it goes well with other classic Greek ingredients such as spinach, olives, tomatoes, oregano, olive oil, and onions. You could also try a white pizza, which is a pizza without any sauce, using feta and mozzarella, and garlic.
No, feta does not melt in the same way as other cheeses, such as mozzarella. If you want a melty texture, it is best to combine feta with another cheese.
