Feta cheese, with its crumbly texture and tangy flavor, is a staple of Greek cuisine and a beloved addition to salads, sandwiches, and baked dishes. Proper storage is key to maintaining its quality and extending its shelf life. When you store feta correctly, you preserve both its taste and texture, allowing you to enjoy this versatile cheese in your cooking for as long as possible.
When storing feta, it’s important to keep it in a brine solution, which is simply a mixture of water and salt. This brine prevents the growth of unwanted bacteria and helps feta maintain its distinct flavor profile. You can either use the original packaging if it includes brine or prepare your own. To ensure longevity, place feta in an airtight container, fully submerged in brine, before placing it in the refrigerator.
If you prefer to keep feta for a longer period, freezing is an option, although it may slightly alter the cheese’s texture. Use frozen feta primarily for cooking, as it integrates well into hot dishes. By understanding these essential tips for feta cheese storage, you can maximize its shelf life and enjoy its robust addition to your culinary ventures.
What is Feta Cheese
In your exploration of feta cheese, it’s essential to grasp not only its origins but also the distinctive qualities that define it.
Origin and Definition
Feta is a Greek cheese that carries a legacy steeped in history. Its name derives from the Italian word ‘fetta’ meaning ‘slice,’ which mirrors the traditional method of cutting the cheese. The European Union legally protects the name “feta” to represent cheese crafted in Greece following time-honored methods. Greek feta cheese is a PDO product, which stands for Protected Designation of Origin, ensuring that authentic feta contains sheep’s milk, or a mix of sheep and goat’s milk, from specific regions of Greece.
Characteristics of Feta Cheese
Feta cheese is renowned for its bold and tangy flavor profile, along with a creamy texture that can range from crumbly to slightly grainy, depending on its aging. Listed below are distinctive characteristics of feta:
Flavor: Rich and tangy with a pleasant hint of acidity.
Texture: Creamy yet with a firmness that can crumble.
Appearance: Traditionally white, with no skin, sold in blocks or cubes.
Aging Process: Feta is cured and stored in a brine solution which contributes to its unique taste and longevity.
By understanding these facets of feta cheese, you can better appreciate its place in cuisine and the importance of proper storage techniques to maintain its authentic flavor and texture.
Preparing Feta Cheese for Storage
When storing feta cheese, maintaining its characteristic flavor and texture is paramount. Proper handling and preparation techniques are essential to retain the cheese’s freshness and moisture content, ensuring that you can enjoy its quality for as long as possible.
Handling Fresh Feta
You must handle fresh feta cheese gently to preserve its integrity. Fresh feta is traditionally made from sheep’s or goat’s milk and has a soft, crumbly texture. Before proceeding, ensure your hands and all utensils are clean to prevent contamination.
Inspect the cheese:
Look for any signs of spoilage or an unusual odor.
Rinse if necessary:
If the surface of the cheese has any particles, lightly rinse it with cold water.
Pat dry:
Carefully pat the cheese with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, being careful not to press too hard and alter the cheese’s texture.
Pre-Storage Preparation
To maximize freshness, there are a few steps you should follow before placing feta cheese into storage:
Prepare brine solution (if using):
Mix 2 cups of water with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, stirring until the salt is fully dissolved.
Ensure the brine is at room temperature before use.
Select a suitable container:
Choose an airtight container that is clean and dry.
Place the feta in the container:
If using brine, pour it over the feta, making sure the cheese is completely submerged to maintain its moisture and flavor.
If not using brine, wrap the feta in a slightly damp paper towel before placing it in the container to help maintain the proper moisture level.
Selecting Storage Containers
When storing feta cheese, the choice of container significantly impacts its shelf life and freshness. Your selection should ensure minimal exposure to air, which can lead to quicker spoilage.
Types of Storage Containers
For optimal preservation, you have a variety of container options:
Airtight Containers: These are the gold standard for storage, as they prevent air from entering and degrading the quality of your feta cheese. Glass jars with tight-sealing lids are excellent choices because they don’t retain odors or flavors from the stored cheese.
Plastic Containers: If you prefer a lighter and potentially more convenient option, plastic containers with snap-on lids can be suitable — ensure they’re designated as food-safe and have an effective seal.
Vacuum-Sealed Bags: These bags remove air from around the cheese, greatly extending freshness. They’re particularly useful if you want to store feta for extended periods.
The following formats are less effective but permissible for short-term storage:
Plastic Wrap: Tightly wrapping the cheese can help to keep it moist but may not be as effective at preventing air exposure compared to airtight options.
Aluminum Foil: This can be form-fitted around the cheese, providing a decent barrier to oxygen and moisture but should be used in conjunction with a more secure container for best results.
Sealing Techniques
Your sealing technique is just as important as the container you choose:
Screw Cap/Twist Lid: For jars, ensure the lid is screwed on tightly after each use to maintain an airtight environment.
Snap-On Lids: Press down evenly on all edges of a plastic container’s lid to displace any trapped air as you close it.
Vacuum Sealers: If using vacuum-sealed bags, follow your sealer’s instructions carefully to remove all air without puncturing the bag.
Wraps and Foils: Firmly press these materials around the entire surface of the cheese, making sure there are no gaps or loose ends where air might enter.
By selecting the appropriate storage containers and employing effective sealing techniques, you’ll significantly prolong the life of your feta cheese while maintaining its delicious taste and texture.
Proper Storage Methods
When storing feta cheese, maintaining its quality hinges on proper refrigeration and freezing techniques, which guard against oxidation and excess air exposure.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Your refrigerator provides an ideal cool environment for feta cheese preservation. Store feta cheese within the temperature range of 35°F to 40°F, which slows down bacterial growth and helps maintain its texture and flavor.
In Brine: Submerge the cheese in a saltwater brine solution to retain moisture and prevent drying out. Ensure the container is airtight.
In Olive Oil: Submerging feta in olive oil can infuse it with additional flavors and keep the cheese from drying out.
Covered: If you’re short on brine or olive oil, wrap the cheese tightly in wax paper or plastic, then place it in a sealed container to reduce air exposure.
Freezing Techniques
Freezing feta cheese extends its shelf life but may alter its crumbly texture after thawing. Follow these steps for optimal results:
Pre-freeze: Cut feta into small portions, wrap each piece tightly with cling film or aluminum foil, and then place into airtight freezer bags.
Temperature Consistency: Keep feta at a steady 0°F or below.
Thawing: When ready to use, thaw your feta in the refrigerator, not at room temperature, to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.
Remember that these methods will help you enjoy your feta at its best quality for longer.
Maintaining Feta Cheese Quality
To ensure the longevity and flavor of feta cheese, you need to manage its storage environment carefully by maintaining a proper brine solution and regularly monitoring the cheese for any signs of spoilage.
Managing Brine Solution
Create a brine solution for your feta by dissolving 2 teaspoons of kosher salt in 2 cups of water. Place your feta cheese in this solution, ensuring it is completely submerged to prevent drying out. This saline environment helps in maintaining the cheese’s texture and taste, while also hindering the growth of unwanted bacteria.
Steps to Prepare Brine:
Dissolve salt in water thoroughly.
Submerge feta cheese in the solution.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Ingredient
Quantity
Water
2 cups
Kosher Salt
2 tsp
The brine solution not only aids in preserving the quality but also can extend the shelf life of the feta cheese.
Monitoring for Spoilage
Regularly check your feta for signs of spoilage, which include the development of mold, an off odor, or a sour taste, as these indicate a compromise in food safety.
What to Look For:
Mold on the cheese’s surface
Uncharacteristic smells
Changes in texture
If you detect any of these spoilage signs, discard the feta to avoid the risks associated with foodborne illness. Proper storage and attentive care are key to enjoying feta cheese safely and deliciously.
Incorporating Feta Cheese in Cuisine
Feta cheese boasts versatility, serving as a flavorful accent in a wide range of dishes. Understand how to integrate its distinct taste into your cooking, enhancing meals with its unique texture and flavor profile.
Feta in Daily Cooking
Your everyday meals can be transformed with the addition of feta cheese. In salads, crumbled feta contributes a salty bite that pairs exceptionally with leafy greens and a bright vinaigrette. For a heartier fare, toss chunks of feta into your pasta dishes; it works excellently in both warm pasta and cold pasta salads. Enrich your sandwiches with a feta spread to add depth of flavor or sprinkle it onto omelets to introduce a Mediterranean twist to your breakfast.
Salad Tip: Combine feta with fresh herbs like dill, mint, or oregano for a refreshing taste.
Pasta Pairing: Enhance tomato-based sauces with feta for a balance of tang and sweetness.
Creative Culinary Uses
Elevate your cooking with inventive feta recipes. Embrace traditional Greek cuisine by making spanakopita, where feta is the star in a savory spinach pie. Feta’s unique flavor profile, combining tanginess and saltiness, becomes more pronounced when marinated in olive oil, spices, and fresh herbs. This marinated feta can be used as a luxurious topping for flatbreads or as an appetizer on its own.
Spanakopita: Balance the spinach with the creamy saltiness of feta.
Marinated Feta: Use olive oil, lemon zest, crushed garlic, and a mix of herbs like rosemary or thyme for marination.
Remember to taste as you go; feta adds its own saltiness to dishes, which may reduce the need for additional salt. Enjoy exploring the flavors and textures feta cheese brings to your culinary creations.
Extending Feta Cheese’s Life
To significantly extend the shelf life of your feta cheese while ensuring quality, proper storage methods and mindful consumption practices are key. It’s not just about keeping it edible but maintaining its distinctive flavor and texture.
Reducing Feta Cheese Waste
To minimize food waste, store your feta in brine—a solution of water and salt that keeps the cheese moist and inhibits the growth of unwanted bacteria. Make sure the brine covers the cheese completely. If you prefer a stronger flavor and different texture, you can also store feta in olive oil, which can infuse the cheese with additional flavor while preserving it. Here’s a quick guideline to prepare the brine:
Dissolve 2 teaspoons of kosher salt in 2 cups of water.
Place the cheese in an airtight container.
Pour the brine over the cheese, ensuring it’s fully submerged.
For portions of feta that you plan to use within a few days, you can keep them in a sealed container in the refrigerator without brine. Check the cheese regularly for signs of spoilage and consume it promptly.
Portion Control and Consumption
When you buy feta in bulk, divide it into smaller portions that you can consume in one go. This approach reduces the chances of the entire block being exposed to air every time you use it, which can spoil the cheese faster. Here are some tips:
Freeze what you won’t use soon. Freezing feta can change its texture, making it crumblier, but it’s a viable option for long-term storage. Wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag before freezing.
Consume thawed feta quickly, since it’s more susceptible to bacteria growth.
By following these simple strategies, you not only cut down on waste but also ensure that every bit of your feta cheese retains its quality for as long as possible.
Health and Nutritional Information
In this section, you’ll learn about the dietary benefits of feta cheese, including its nutritional components, and the important safety and allergen information to consider.
Dietary Benefits of Feta
Feta cheese is a rich source of calcium and protein. The average serving offers important nutrients that can be part of a balanced diet. Here’s a brief outline of what you can gain from adding feta to your meals:
Protein: Essential for muscle maintenance and overall health.
Calcium: Vital for bone health and strength.
Nutrition Table: Nutrient Amount per 100g Protein ~14g Calcium ~493mg Calories ~264
Including feta in your diet can provide these benefits, especially for those looking for a source of calcium with fewer calories than some other cheeses. However, feta has a high sodium content, often due to being stored in a brine solution made with kosher salt.
Safety and Allergen Information
When consuming feta cheese, you should be aware of lactose intolerance and potential allergens. Feta cheese contains lactose, although typically in lower amounts than other dairy products, which may be tolerated better by individuals with lactose sensitivity.
Allergy Information:
Milk: Feta cheese is made from sheep’s milk, goat’s milk, or a mixture of the two and could trigger reactions in people with milk allergies.
Lactose: Contains a moderate amount of lactose.
Always check the packaging for specific allergen information and look for varieties that fit your dietary needs, such as those made with lactose-free milk or certified kosher if necessary. Remember to store feta correctly to ensure its safety and to enjoy its nutritional benefits within a balanced diet.
Troubleshooting Common Feta Cheese Issues
When storing feta cheese, you may encounter issues such as excessive saltiness or the risk of bacterial growth. Addressing these concerns promptly will ensure your feta remains flavorful and safe to consume.
Addressing Excessive Saltiness
If your feta cheese tastes too salty, soaking it in milk or water for a few hours can help alleviate the strong salt flavor. Remember that feta’s characteristic tang is partially due to its salt content, which acts as a natural preservative. After soaking, pat the cheese dry with paper towels before use.
Preventing Bacterial Growth
To prevent bacterial growth:
Store feta in a brine solution, which is a mixture of water and salt that inhibits the growth of unwanted bacteria.
Ensure the brine covers the feta completely, creating an anaerobic environment unfriendly to bacteria.
Regularly check the cheese for signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell or visual mold. If either of these signs is present, discard the cheese.
For long-term storage, keeping feta in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) is ideal to slow down bacterial growth.
Advanced Tips for Feta Cheese Storage
Enhancing your feta cheese storage can help to maintain its richness, tangy flavor, and crumbly texture for longer periods. These methods involve a bit more effort but can elevate the quality and longevity of your cheese.
Using Olive Oil and Herbs
To preserve feta cheese while enriching its flavor, consider marinating it in olive oil. This method not only inhibits bacterial growth but also imparts a luxurious richness to the cheese. Here’s a quick guide:
Prepare the Cheese: Cut your feta into cubes or slices, depending on your preference.
Season: Place the cheese in a jar and add your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the tangy flavor.
Cover with Oil: Pour enough olive oil into the jar to completely cover the cheese and herbs.
Seal and Store: Tightly seal the jar and refrigerate. This can keep your marinated feta fresh for up to two weeks.
Speciality Storage Techniques
Beyond the typical brine solution, there are specialty techniques that can further extend the life of your feta cheese without compromising its unique texture and taste.
Vacuum Sealing: Vacuum sealing removes air, preventing oxidation and moisture loss. It’s an excellent way to store pre-portioned feta.
Cheese Paper Wrapping: If available, wrap feta cheese in cheese paper, which allows the cheese to breathe and maintains its moisture balance better than plastic.
Technique
Description
Expected Shelf Life
Olive Oil & Herbs
Feta cubes marinated in olive oil and herbs.
Up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Vacuum Sealing
Air is removed, and cheese is sealed in airtight bags.
Several weeks to a month in the refrigerator.
Cheese Paper
Feta is wrapped in specialty paper that regulates humidity.
Longer than when wrapped in plastic or foil.
Continually assess your feta cheese for freshness, and enjoy the premium flavors these advanced storage methods help retain.
To store feta cheese, you can keep it in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to place it in the coldest part of your refrigerator, such as the back of the bottom shelf or the vegetable drawer. It's important to keep feta cheese away from strong-smelling foods as it can absorb odors. If the feta cheese is stored properly, it can last for several weeks.
Proper storage of feta cheese not only extends its shelf life but also maintains its distinctive taste and texture. This section provides clear answers to common queries about storing feta after purchase.
What is the best way to keep feta cheese fresh after opening?
To keep your feta cheese fresh after opening, store it submerged in a saltwater brine, which will help maintain its moisture and prevent spoilage.
Is it necessary to store feta cheese in brine, and how do I prepare it?
Yes, storing feta in brine is recommended. A simple brine can be made by dissolving 2 teaspoons of kosher salt in 2 cups of water. Make sure the feta is fully submerged in the solution.
What are suitable brine substitutes for preserving feta cheese?
If brine isn’t your preferred choice, you can preserve feta in olive oil for a different flavor profile or wrap it in parchment paper and refrigerate for short-term storage.
At what temperature should feta cheese be stored for optimal freshness?
Feta cheese should be stored at a consistent refrigerator temperature, typically between 35°F to 40°F (1.7°C to 4.4°C) to preserve its freshness and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
How long is feta cheese safe to consume when kept refrigerated?
When stored correctly in brine or airtight packaging in the refrigerator, feta cheese can be safe to consume for up to four weeks.
How should feta cheese from the deli be stored at home?
Store deli feta cheese the same way as packaged feta: in a brine solution or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to retain moisture and extend its shelf life.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
