Store feta is herb-infused olive oil for a special kick.
Feta is a classic Mediterranean cheese traditionally made from sheep's or goat's milk. In America, you can also find cow's milk versions, which makes for a milder, less pungent cheese. Feta is available in many levels of quality, so like all foods, buy the best one you can afford. No matter which option you choose, never buy precrumbled feta, since it tends to be saltier and drier than its creamy, salt-brined counterpart. Although feta is most often used cold to top salads, it's a versatile cheese that can add unexpected flavor and texture to simple dishes.
Instructions
1. Open the package of feta the day before you intend to use it. Break off a small piece and taste it. If it is too salty or pungent, rinse the feta in cold water and replace the brine with milk. If it is not salty enough, replace the brine with a solution of one tbsp. table salt (or 2 tbsp. coarse salt) and one cup of water. Change out the brine solution every day to keep the feta fresh.
2. Slice off a large chunk of feta and place the rest of the block back in its container. Crumble the feta into bite-sized chunks using your hands.
3. Sprinkle feta crumbles on top of grilled or roasted vegetables, soups, sliced fruit or salads.
4. Add feta to warm pasta mixed with cooked chicken and vegetables. The feta should melt slight and break down in the pasta, adding a creamy texture to the dish. Thoroughly combine the pasta and taste before adding any additional seasoning.
5. Make burger patties with ground beef or lamb, fresh herbs, and crumbles of feta cheese.
6. Sprinkle feta crumbles on top of homemade pizza. Or, make a nontraditional pizza using pita bread or flat bread. Add pesto, cooked meat and vegetables and bake in the oven until the cheese is browned.
7. Cut the feta into slices instead of crumbling it. Arrange it on a plate with sliced tomatoes and meat. Drizzle with olive oil and serve with crackers or slices of baguettes as an easy appetizer.
Tags: brine with, feta crumbles, feta into, replace brine, replace brine with
