Patrick Oconnell
Feta is a versatile cheese that can be used to add a salty tanginess to a variety of dishes. It is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine and is commonly associated with Greece. When it comes to spices that complement feta cheese, fresh or dried herbs are often used, including parsley, thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil, mint, dill, and coriander seeds. Additionally, spices such as cumin, golpar, red pepper flakes, and chilli peppers are also used to enhance the flavour of feta in various recipes. Feta's tangy flavour also pairs well with vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, and red peppers, as well as fruits like watermelon, apricots, and nectarines.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Spices | Cumin, golpar, nutmeg, za'atar, red pepper flakes, chilli, peppercorns |
| Herbs | Parsley, thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil, mint, dill, cilantro, coriander seeds |
| Other ingredients | Olive oil, lemon, lemon zest, garlic, chickpeas, olives, cured meat, pita chips, hummus, charcuterie, spinach, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, sesame seeds, eggs, sumac, lime |
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What You'll Learn
Olive oil and herbs
When choosing olive oil, opt for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) to avoid any bitterness. As for herbs, fresh herbs are preferable during the summer when they are readily available and have more flavour. Good options include parsley, thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil, mint, and dill. You can also use a spice mix like herbes de Provence.
To make a quick marinated feta, slice or cube the feta and place it in a mason jar. Mix the olive oil with lemon zest, dried oregano, fresh parsley, sliced jalapeño, and dry chillies (optional). Pour the mixture over the feta, adding more olive oil to completely cover the cheese. This should last in the fridge for 2-3 weeks if stored properly in a tight-lid jar, with the cheese always covered in olive oil. The leftover olive oil can be used in marinades or salad dressings.
For a more refined version of this dish, cut the feta into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle the seasonings on top. This is best served soon after adding the fresh herbs. Avoid using dried herbs as the flavour is not as bright. Instead, use a mixture of fresh herbs like basil, dill, and mint.
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Lemon and chilli pepper
Feta is also a great addition to steak, chicken, tofu, and fish. Its tangy, salty flavour enhances the natural saltiness of fish. For a summer dish, try feta crumbles on grilled salmon with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
For a more substantial meal, try crispy feta with lemon pepper chicken and rice. This Middle Eastern-inspired dish is easy to make and full of flavour. Pan-fry a block of feta cheese with cornstarch or arrowroot powder and a little olive oil. The cornstarch helps the feta to crisp up nicely in the skillet. Serve with spicy garlic chicken and peppers over rice.
For a refreshing summer pasta, combine lemon, olive oil, garlic, chickpeas, and crumbled feta. This combination also works well as a dip with crostini, flatbread, fruit, or vegetables.
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Mediterranean diet
Feta cheese is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and is a good source of protein, vitamins, and calcium. It is also rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. The Mediterranean diet includes cheese, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Feta is a versatile cheese that can be paired with many different foods, making it perfect for any occasion. For example, it can be crumbled on top of watermelon or grapes, or added to pasta, pizza, or eggs. It can also be baked, fried, or drizzled with honey.
When considering spices that pair well with feta, fresh or dried herbs are a great option. Oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil, mint, dill, and parsley are all excellent choices. Spices such as cumin, red pepper flakes, and golpar can also be used to add a unique flavour to the cheese.
Feta is a tangy and salty cheese that can enhance the flavour of dishes. Its strong flavour means that a little goes a long way, making it ideal for those watching their calorie intake. The cheese also has a unique texture that is creamy yet easy to crumble.
In terms of health, feta has some benefits when compared to other cheeses. It is lower in calories and fat, making it a better option for those conscious of their calorie intake. However, its high sodium content is something to be mindful of, especially for those with hypertension or other health concerns. Rinsing the cheese before use can help mitigate this issue.
Overall, feta is a delicious and versatile cheese that can be enjoyed in many different ways as part of a Mediterranean diet. Its cultural significance, nutritional profile, and robust taste make it a preferred choice for many Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
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Spinach and nutmeg
Feta is a versatile cheese that can be paired with a variety of ingredients. It is often used in appetizers, snacks, and salads, and can be crumbled on pasta, watermelon, grapes, nuts, chickpeas, potatoes, pizza, or eggs. Feta is also a great addition to steak, chicken, tofu, and fish.
Now, let's dive into the unique pairing of spinach and nutmeg with feta cheese.
The combination of spinach, nutmeg, and feta cheese is a classic Greek dish called spanakopita. Spanakopita is a popular recipe consisting of spinach, herbs, and feta cheese, all wrapped in crunchy phyllo dough. The phyllo dough is brushed with olive oil, giving the dish a flaky and crispy texture.
To make spanakopita, start by sautéing onions in olive oil until they become soft and translucent. Then, add spinach, making sure to squeeze out any excess water. Sprinkle in the herbs, nutmeg, and a pinch of sugar, and continue to sauté for a few more minutes. Set the mixture aside to cool. Grate or crumble the feta cheese and beat it with an egg. Combine the spinach mixture with the feta and egg, and add another tablespoon of olive oil. Mix well.
Brush a baking pan with olive oil and layer sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with olive oil. Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly on the phyllo sheets and bake in the oven until cooked through and golden brown.
Spanakopita can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main course. It is a tasty and healthy option, and the combination of spinach, nutmeg, and feta creates an earthy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile.
Another way to enjoy the trio of spinach, nutmeg, and feta is in a salad. To make a spinach salad with feta and nutmeg, start by putting vinegar and feta cheese in a large bowl. Mash the feta with a fork and stir to combine. Add nutmeg and black pepper to taste, and slowly pour in olive oil while stirring. Chop the spinach leaves into small pieces and add them to the bowl. Toss the salad to coat it with the dressing. Adjust the seasoning, adding salt if needed. Serve the salad in bowls, topping each portion with a dollop of yogurt and a dusting of nutmeg.
The spinach salad with feta and nutmeg is a fresh and simple dish, offering a unique blend of flavors. The nutmeg adds a warm and earthy note to the salad, complementing the spinach and feta beautifully.
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Spices and herbs
Feta is a versatile cheese that can be paired with a variety of spices and herbs to enhance its flavour. Here are some spices and herbs that go well with feta cheese:
Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs are a great way to add flavour to feta cheese. Herbs such as parsley, thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil, mint, and dill can be used to enhance the taste of feta. In the summer, when fresh herbs are readily available and at their flavour peak, it is recommended to use them over dried herbs. However, dried herbs such as dried oregano can also be used and are commonly sprinkled over feta drizzled with olive oil.
Golpar and Cumin
Golpar, also known as cow parsnip seed, is a spice that pairs well with feta cheese. It can be used in combination with cumin to create a unique and tasty flavour. Ground golpar and cumin can be mixed and sprinkled over cubed feta cheese, along with olive oil, to create a delicious appetizer.
Garlic
Garlic is often used in small amounts as a seasoning to enhance the flavour of feta cheese. Grated or crushed garlic can be added to feta cheese, along with olive oil and herbs, to create a tasty appetizer or salad topping.
Chili Peppers and Peppercorns
For those who enjoy a little heat, chili peppers or peppercorns can be added to feta cheese. Dried chili peppers, chili flakes, or fresh chili peppers can be crushed and mixed with olive oil to create a spicy marinade for the cheese. Peppercorns provide a peppery taste without leaving specks of pepper on the cheese.
Lemon
Lemon is a great addition to feta cheese, providing a hint of citrus. Lemon zest or lemon peel can be grated or added to olive oil to create a refreshing flavour that pairs well with the creaminess of the cheese.
These are just a few examples of spices and herbs that can enhance the flavour of feta cheese. Experimenting with different combinations of these ingredients can create unique and tasty results.
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Frequently asked questions
Spices such as cumin, golpar, chilli, and pepper go well with feta cheese.
Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil, mint, and dill also pair well with feta cheese.
Feta cheese can be added to a variety of dishes, including salads, pasta, omelettes, and grilled dishes. It is also commonly used as an appetizer or snack, served with bread, olives, and cured meats.
Some popular recipes that use feta cheese include marinated feta with herbs, whipped feta dip, and baked phyllo-wrapped feta.
Greek feta cheese, which is traditionally made with sheep's milk and stored in brine, is considered the best for cooking due to its creamy texture and salty flavour.
