Feta Cheese Substitute for Goat Cheese: Complete Guide
Learn how to use feta cheese as a substitute for goat cheese in recipes. Discover the best techniques, ratios, and tips for perfect results every time.
Quick Answer
Feta cheese is an excellent substitute for goat cheese with a 1:1 ratio. It provides similar tangy, salty flavor and crumbly texture, making it perfect for salads, Mediterranean dishes, and most recipes calling for goat cheese.
Best Substitutes
Feta Cheese (Greek)
1:1Greek cheese made from sheep's or goat's milk with tangy, salty flavor and crumbly texture that closely matches goat cheese
Best for:
More salty than goat cheese but similar tangy flavor. Soak in water briefly to reduce saltiness if needed. Crumble well for best texture.
French Feta
1:1Milder, creamier version of feta that's closer to goat cheese in flavor and texture
Best for:
Less salty than Greek feta, closer to goat cheese flavor. More expensive but worth it for authentic taste.
Bulgarian Feta
1:1Rich, tangy feta with complex flavor that works well as a goat cheese substitute
Best for:
More complex flavor than regular feta. Good for cooking where you want depth of flavor.
Feta in Brine
1:1Fresh feta stored in brine that's creamier and less salty than dry feta
Best for:
Creamier texture than dry feta. Rinse briefly to remove excess brine. Best for spreads and dips.
Cooking Tips
- 💡For salads, crumble feta with your fingers for the best texture and distribution
- 💡If feta is too salty, soak it in cold water for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry
- 💡For spreads, mash feta with a fork and add a little olive oil for creaminess
- 💡When cooking with feta, add it at the end to prevent it from becoming too salty
- 💡For pizza, crumble feta over the top after baking for best results
- 💡Store feta in its brine in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute feta for goat cheese in any recipe?
Yes, feta works as a substitute for goat cheese in most recipes, including salads, pasta, pizza, and Mediterranean dishes. The main difference is that feta is saltier, so you may want to reduce other salt in the recipe.
Is feta cheese healthier than goat cheese?
Both cheeses have similar nutritional profiles. Feta is slightly higher in sodium, while goat cheese has more fat. Both are good sources of protein and calcium. Choose based on your dietary needs and taste preferences.
How do I make feta less salty when substituting for goat cheese?
Soak feta in cold water for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry. You can also rinse it briefly under running water. For cooking, add feta at the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming too salty.
Can I use feta in baking recipes that call for goat cheese?
Yes, feta works well in baking recipes like quiches, frittatas, and savory tarts. It may be slightly saltier, so consider reducing other salty ingredients in the recipe.
What's the difference between Greek feta and other types of feta?
Greek feta is typically saltier and tangier, while French feta is milder and creamier. Bulgarian feta has a more complex flavor. Choose based on your taste preference and the specific recipe.
Summary
Learn how to use feta cheese as a perfect substitute for goat cheese. Get ratios, cooking tips, and techniques for the best results in salads, pasta, and Mediterranean dishes.