Out of Feta cheese, one case
Vegan feta cheese substitutes: dairy-free options
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Tofu feta
Same amount as the feta cheese
The best vegan substitutes for feta cheese are tofu feta (marinated tofu), cashew-based feta, or store-bought vegan feta. Tofu feta is the most accessible option - simply marinate extra-firm tofu in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Best for —
- salads
One casethe full feta cheese card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of feta cheese |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tofu fetasalads | Same amount |
| 2 | Cashew fetasalads | Same amount |
| 3 | Store-bought vegan fetasalads | Same amount |
| 4 | Nutritional yeast + olive oiltoppings | Same amount |
| 5 | Olives + caperssalads | Same amount |
Tofu feta
tangy, salty, briny
Marinated extra-firm tofu that mimics feta's texture and briny flavor
- Best for
- salads, pasta, greek dishes, appetizers, toppings
- Texture
- firm, crumbly
Make by marinating tofu in lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and herbs.
Cashew feta
tangy, creamy, slightly sweet
Creamy cashew-based cheese with tangy, salty flavor
- Best for
- salads, spreads, dips, toppings, baking
- Texture
- creamy, soft
Requires soaking cashews and blending with lemon juice and salt.
Store-bought vegan feta
varies by brand, typically tangy and salty
Commercial plant-based feta alternatives
- Best for
- salads, pasta, greek dishes, any feta application
- Texture
- varies by brand, typically crumbly
Check ingredients for allergens and nutritional content.
Nutritional yeast + olive oil
cheesy, umami, salty
Simple combination for cheesy flavor without dairy
- Best for
- toppings, salads, pasta, baking
- Texture
- powdery, granular
Mix nutritional yeast with olive oil and salt for a quick substitute.
Olives + capers
salty, briny, tangy
Mediterranean ingredients that provide salty, briny flavor
- Best for
- salads, pasta, greek dishes, toppings
- Texture
- firm, chewy
Chop finely and use as a topping or mix-in.
How it behaves in this recipe
Vegan feta substitutes work best when you focus on replicating the salty, tangy, briny flavor profile rather than just the texture. Tofu feta is the most versatile option, while cashew feta provides creaminess for spreads and dips.
Tips for substituting feta cheese
8 tips- For tofu feta, use extra-firm tofu and press it well before marinating
- Marinate tofu feta for at least 30 minutes, but overnight for best flavor
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to tofu feta for extra tanginess
- Cashew feta works best when soaked for 4-6 hours before blending
- Store homemade vegan feta in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- For a firmer texture, freeze tofu feta briefly before crumbling
- Add herbs like oregano, thyme, or dill to enhance the Mediterranean flavor
- Use sea salt or miso paste for a more authentic salty flavor
Notes on feta cheese
- Hummus with herbs for creamy texture
- Avocado with lemon and salt for creaminess
- Sun-dried tomatoes for umami flavor
- Artichoke hearts for tangy, briny notes
- Pickled vegetables for acidity and crunch
Questions
5 questionsWhat is the best vegan substitute for feta cheese?
Tofu feta is the best vegan substitute for feta cheese. It's easy to make, has a similar texture, and can be marinated to mimic feta's tangy, salty flavor.
How do I make vegan feta cheese?
To make vegan feta, press extra-firm tofu, cut into cubes, and marinate in lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and herbs for 30 minutes to 2 hours. For cashew feta, soak cashews, blend with lemon juice and salt, then refrigerate to firm up.
Can I buy vegan feta cheese?
Yes, several brands make vegan feta cheese including Violife, Follow Your Heart, and Miyoko's. Check your local health food store or order online.
Is vegan feta cheese healthy?
Vegan feta made from tofu or cashews is generally healthier than dairy feta as it's lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, while still providing protein and healthy fats.
What can I use instead of feta cheese if I'm vegan?
You can use tofu feta, cashew feta, store-bought vegan feta, or even olives and capers for a salty, briny flavor. Each option works well in different applications.