Feta Cheese vs Italian-Style Cheese
Feta Cheese is a soft, white, aged in brine goat and sheep-milk cheese from Greece, while Italian-Style Cheese is .
What Is Feta Cheese?
Feta is a Greek brined white cheese made from sheep's milk or a mix of sheep and goat's milk. It is crumbly and slightly grainy, tangy and salty, and it anchors dishes like Greek salad and spanakopita.
What Is Italian-Style Cheese?
Italian-Style cheese is a broad category that typically mimics the flavors and textures of traditional Italian cheeses. These cheeses are often semi-hard and range in flavor from mild and creamy to sharp and tangy. They may be made from cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk, and are commonly used in cooking due to their melting properties. Italian-Style cheeses are versatile, making them suitable for grating over pasta, topping pizzas, or incorporating into baked dishes. While they may not be authentically Italian, they aim to capture the essence of Italy's renowned cheese-making traditions. The taste can vary but generally offers a savory and rich profile. Depending on the specific type, these cheeses might feature subtle hints of nuttiness or a buttery finish.
What's the Difference Between Feta Cheese and Italian-Style Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feta Cheese | Italian-Style Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Greece | — |
| Specific Origin | Mainland Greece And Lesbos Prefecture | — |
| Milk Type | Goat's and sheep's milk | — |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized, sometimes raw | — |
| Texture | Soft, white, aged in brine | — |
| Rind | None | — |
| Aging | 2 months to longer | — |
| Taste | Sharp to mild | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Feta Cheese Taste Like Italian-Style Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Feta Cheese for Italian-Style Cheese?
Feta Cheese can stand in for Italian-Style Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Feta Cheese or Italian-Style Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Feta Cheese the same as Italian-Style Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Feta Cheese similar to Italian-Style Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Feta Cheese for Italian-Style Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Feta Cheese taste like Italian-Style Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Feta Cheese made of?
Feta Cheese is made from goat and sheep milk (pasteurized, sometimes raw), using rennet. It's typically aged 2 months to longer. It originates in Greece.
What is Italian-Style Cheese made of?
Italian-Style Cheese is made from milk.
Which should I choose, Feta Cheese or Italian-Style Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.