If you’re anything like me, you probably find yourself reaching for feta cheese to add that perfect tangy kick to your salads, wraps, and pasta. But what happens when you’re fresh out of feta or looking for a dairy-free alternative? I have you covered! In this blog post I will cover 10 of the best substitutes for feta cheese.

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Halloumi

Overhead image of halloumi cheese.

Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese with a salty flavor and a unique squeaky texture when grilled or fried. It’s an excellent substitute for feta in salads and sandwiches, adding a satisfying chewiness and a hint of saltiness.

Ricotta

Up close photo of ricotta cheese.

Ricotta cheese is a soft and creamy Italian cheese with less sodium but with a higher moisture content than feta cheese. You can substitute ricotta for feta in pasta salad, salad dressing, spanakopita, bruschetta, and cheesy pasta dishes.

Cottage Cheese

Overhead photo of cottage cheese.

If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, cottage cheese is a great choice. While it doesn’t have the same sharpness as feta, its mild flavor and creamy texture make it a versatile substitute in dips, spreads, and even stuffed peppers.

Goat Cheese

Overhead photo of goat cheese.

Creamy, tangy, and slightly earthy, goat cheese is another fantastic substitute for feta cheese. It crumbles beautifully over salads, pizzas, and pasta, lending a similar tartness that pairs perfectly with fresh herbs and veggies.

Queso Fresco

Up close image of queso fresco.

Originating from Mexico, queso fresco is a crumbly white cheese with a slightly salty flavor and a mild tang. This makes it a great substitute for feta cheese. It’s perfect for sprinkling over tacos, salads, and soups, refreshingly contrasting spicy or savory dishes.

Parmesan Cheese

Overhead image of parmesan cheese.

Parmesan cheese is a type of hard cheese that has a similar saltiness and a tangy, nutty flavor, which makes it a great substitute for feta cheese. When using parmesan as a substitute for feta, it is best to use it at room temperature. You can use parmesan to enhance the taste of dishes such as pizza, pasta, salads, and soups.

Paneer

Overhead image of paneer.

Popular in Indian cuisine, paneer is a fresh cheese with a mild, milky taste and a firm texture that holds its shape well when cooked. While it lacks the tanginess of feta, paneer adds a creamy richness to dishes like curries, stir-fries, and grilled skewers.

Tofu Feta

Up close image of tofu feta cheese.

If you’re following a vegan or dairy-free diet, tofu feta is a game-changer. Marinating firm tofu in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs can mimic the tangy taste and crumbly texture of traditional feta. Use it in salads, wraps, or topping for avocado toast.

Almond Cheese

Overhead image of almond cheese.

If you need a vegan dairy-free lactose-free feta cheese alternative, almond cheese is a great substitute. It can be used in place of feta on salads, pizza, wraps and sandwiches. If you have nut allergies, I would steer clear from almond cheese as a substitute for feta cheese.

Cashew Cheese

Overhead image of cashew cheese.

Another dairy-free alternative, cashew cheese, is made from soaked cashews blended with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and salt. The result is a creamy, tangy cheese that’s perfect for spreading on crackers, dipping veggies, or stuffing into olives.

Whether you’re dairy-free, vegan, or just looking to switch things up in the kitchen, you’re sure to find a substitute that works for you and your recipes!

FAQS

What are the three types of feta?

Feta isn’t just Greek — there’s also Bulgarian and French.

Should you rinse feta cheese?

It’s a good idea to rinse feta packed in brine just before serving to remove excess salt.

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