If you love feta cheese, you’re not alone. This tangy, crumbly, and slightly salty cheese has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. While it’s most famous for its role in salads, feta is far more versatile than you might think. Whether you’re exploring classic pairings or experimenting with modern recipes, feta has the ability to elevate any dish. So, what does feta cheese go with? Let’s dive into the delicious world of feta cheese and explore its best pairings.
Classic Pairings for Feta Cheese
Traditional Mediterranean Pairings
When you think of feta cheese, Mediterranean flavors immediately come to mind. This is because feta is deeply rooted in Greek and other Mediterranean cuisines, where it’s paired with a variety of fresh ingredients.
Feta and Olives
A classic pairing that you can’t go wrong with is feta and olives. The brininess of olives perfectly complements the tangy, salty flavor of feta. Add them to a salad, serve them as an appetizer, or combine them with a drizzle of olive oil and oregano for a simple, yet satisfying snack.
Feta with Cucumbers and Tomatoes
This pairing is the heart of the famous Greek salad. The cool, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and feta cheese combine to create a refreshing and flavorful dish. A touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano or mint brings the flavors together beautifully.
Feta with Spinach
Spinach and feta are a match made in heaven. The slight bitterness of spinach is balanced by the saltiness of feta. This combination is at its best in spanakopita, a savory Greek pastry filled with feta and spinach, encased in flaky filo dough.
Feta with Pita Bread
Feta pairs wonderfully with pita bread. Crumble the feta and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, then scoop it up with warm pita. It’s a simple appetizer, but incredibly satisfying. Add some za’atar or oregano to enhance the flavors even more.
Feta Cheese in Modern Recipes
Feta in Salads
Classic Greek Salad
You simply can’t talk about feta cheese without mentioning the Greek salad. This traditional dish is a perfect balance of flavors—fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onions, green bell peppers, olives, and crumbled feta, all tossed in a light olive oil dressing. It’s refreshing, tangy, and the ultimate summer meal.
Feta in Fruit Salads
Believe it or not, feta cheese also pairs incredibly well with fruit. One of the most popular combinations is feta with watermelon. The sweetness of the watermelon highlights the saltiness of the feta, making this a refreshing summer salad. Other fruits that pair well with feta include peaches, berries, and figs. Toss these together with a light balsamic dressing, and you have a dish that’s both sweet and savory.
Feta Cheese in Sandwiches and Wraps
Feta cheese is an excellent addition to Mediterranean-style wraps. Combine it with hummus, roasted vegetables, and fresh greens for a healthy, delicious wrap. The creamy texture of the hummus pairs beautifully with the crumbly feta, while the roasted veggies add a depth of flavor.
Feta in Grilled Cheese or Paninis
Give your grilled cheese a Mediterranean twist by adding feta. Pair it with mozzarella or cheddar to balance the sharpness, and grill it between slices of crusty bread for a unique, mouthwatering sandwich.
Feta in Burgers
Feta also makes a fantastic addition to burgers. Whether you’re making a black bean burger or a lamb burger, adding feta provides a tangy punch that complements the other ingredients. You can mix it into the patty or crumble it on top for a rich, flavorful bite.
Feta on Pizza and Flatbreads
Mediterranean Pizza
Feta and pizza? Absolutely! Create a Mediterranean-inspired pizza with toppings like artichokes, olives, roasted red peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes. The feta adds a salty, tangy note that perfectly complements these bold flavors.
Feta and Spinach Flatbread
For a lighter meal, try a spinach and feta flatbread. The creamy feta balances the earthy spinach, while a touch of garlic and olive oil ties everything together. It’s a perfect appetizer or quick lunch.
Feta with Proteins and Main Dishes
Meat Pairings with Feta
Feta with Chicken
Feta cheese pairs beautifully with chicken, especially in Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Try stuffing chicken breasts with feta and spinach or baking chicken thighs with a topping of crumbled feta, lemon, and oregano. The cheese adds moisture and a burst of flavor.
Feta with Lamb
Lamb and feta are a classic combination, especially in Greek cuisine. The richness of the lamb is offset by the salty tang of feta. Try adding feta to lamb burgers, or crumble it over roasted lamb with herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Feta with Pork
Feta pairs nicely with pork, particularly in dishes like pork with a feta and herb stuffing. The cheese helps to keep the meat moist while adding a delicious flavor contrast.
Vegetarian Dishes with Feta
Feta with Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables and feta are a match made in heaven. Whether it’s roasted squash, zucchini, or eggplant, feta adds a tangy kick that enhances the sweetness of the vegetables. Sprinkle crumbled feta over roasted veggies just before serving for the best flavor.
Feta in Stuffed Peppers or Mushrooms
Feta works wonderfully as a stuffing for both peppers and mushrooms. Combine it with quinoa or rice, herbs, and vegetables for a delicious and healthy meal. The feta adds a creamy, tangy element to every bite.
Feta Cheese in Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
Feta in Eggs and Omelets
Feta is a fantastic addition to eggs, whether scrambled or in an omelet. Add some spinach, tomatoes, and herbs like dill or parsley for a Mediterranean-style breakfast that’s both filling and nutritious. The feta melts slightly into the eggs, creating a creamy texture.
Feta in Pastries and Savory Bakes
Feta in Spanakopita and Bourekas
Spanakopita is a famous Greek dish that combines spinach and feta in flaky filo dough. Another pastry option is bourekas, a Mediterranean pastry filled with feta, spinach, or mashed potatoes. These savory treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack.
Feta in Breakfast Casseroles
Feta can also be used in breakfast casseroles, mixed with eggs, vegetables, and other cheeses. It adds a tangy note that makes the dish stand out. Bake it in the oven and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch option.
Feta Cheese with Desserts and Unconventional Pairings
Sweet and Savory Combos
Feta with Honey and Nuts
One of the most delicious ways to enjoy feta is to pair it with honey and nuts. The sweetness of the honey perfectly complements the saltiness of the feta, while the nuts add a crunchy texture. This combination works well as a dessert or appetizer.
Feta with Figs or Dates
Another sweet and savory pairing is feta with figs or dates. The natural sweetness of these fruits enhances the sharpness of the cheese, creating a balanced and delicious flavor profile. Serve it with some crackers or bread for a sophisticated snack or appetizer.
FAQs About Feta Cheese Pairings
What Fruits Go Well with Feta Cheese?
Feta cheese pairs incredibly well with fruits like watermelon, peaches, berries, and figs. The sweetness of the fruit balances the salty tang of the feta, creating a delightful contrast.
Can Feta Cheese Be Used in Baking?
Yes! Feta can be used in savory bakes, such as spanakopita or breakfast casseroles. It adds a rich, tangy flavor that enhances the overall dish.
What Are the Best Herbs and Spices for Feta?
Herbs like oregano, dill, and mint pair wonderfully with feta. These herbs help to bring out the fresh, tangy flavors of the cheese and are commonly used in Mediterranean dishes.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Feta cheese is a truly versatile ingredient that enhances the flavors of countless dishes. From classic Mediterranean pairings to creative modern recipes, feta brings a tangy, salty kick that complements a wide range of foods. Whether you’re enjoying it in a salad, sandwich, or as part of a dessert, feta has the ability to transform a dish. So next time you’re wondering what does feta cheese go with, remember that the possibilities are endless!