Are you looking for a low-calorie cheese option that still packs a punch of flavor? Look no further than 1/4 cup (28 g) of Reduced Fat Feta Cheese Crumbles, which contains just 60 calories. This cheese is a great addition to any dish that needs a salty, tangy kick.

But feta cheese isn't just a tasty treat - it also has some impressive health benefits. Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. It is also lower in calories and fat than many other types of cheese making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or follow a low-fat diet. Additionally, feta cheese is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of reduced fat feta cheese, as well as how to cook and store it properly. By the end of the article, you'll be a pro at incorporating this delicious and healthy cheese into your meals.

Low-Calorie Feta Cheese

Reduced fat feta cheese is a great option for those looking to cut calories without sacrificing flavor. In just 1/4 cup (28 g) of reduced fat feta cheese, there are only 60 calories compared to 100 calories in regular feta cheese. This makes it a great option for anyone trying to maintain a healthy weight. Reduced fat feta cheese also contains less fat than regular feta cheese. In that same 1/4 cup (28 g) serving, reduced fat feta cheese has only 3.5 grams of fat compared to 7.5 grams of fat in regular feta cheese. This makes it a good choice for those following a low-fat diet.

Health Benefits of Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Just 1/4 cup (28 g) of feta cheese contains 140 mg of calcium, which is 14% of the daily recommended intake. Feta cheese is also a good source of protein, with 1/4 cup (28 g) containing 4 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, making feta cheese a great post-workout snack. In addition, studies have shown that consuming dairy products like feta cheese can reduce the risk of osteoporosis, hypertension, and even certain types of cancer.

Reduced Fat Feta Cheese vs Regular Feta Cheese

The biggest difference between reduced fat feta cheese and regular feta cheese is the calorie and fat content. As mentioned before, reduced fat feta cheese has about 40% fewer calories and 50% less fat than regular feta cheese. However, some people argue that reduced fat feta cheese doesn't have the same flavor and texture as regular feta cheese. It's important to note that reduced fat feta cheese may be slightly less creamy and tangy than regular feta cheese, but it still has a distinct flavor that can add a lot to salads and other dishes.

Nutritional Content of Reduced Fat Feta Cheese

In addition to being lower in calories and fat than regular feta cheese, reduced fat feta cheese is still a good source of important nutrients like calcium and protein. In 1/4 cup (28 g) of reduced fat feta cheese, there are 140 mg of calcium and 4 grams of protein. Reduced fat feta cheese is also a good source of other important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D and phosphorus. It's important to remember, however, that feta cheese is high in sodium, with 1/4 cup (28 g) containing 360 mg of sodium, which is 15% of the daily recommended intake.

Cooking with Reduced Fat Feta Cheese

Reduced fat feta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. It's great in salads, on top of veggie burgers, or even as a pizza topping. One thing to keep in mind when cooking with feta cheese is that it tends to crumble easily, so it's best to add it to dishes at the end of the cooking process. This will ensure that it doesn't melt or lose its flavor.

Low-Fat Diet with Feta Cheese

If you're looking to follow a low-fat diet, feta cheese can be a great addition to your meals. Reduced fat feta cheese is a good alternative to other high-fat cheeses, like cheddar or brie. However, it's important to remember that just because something is labeled 'reduced fat' doesn't mean it's always a healthy choice. It's still important to check the label for ingredients like added sugars and preservatives.

Reduced Fat Feta Cheese in Salads

Feta cheese is a popular ingredient in salads because it adds a salty, tangy flavor to the dish. Reduced fat feta cheese is a great option for those looking to cut calories without sacrificing taste. A simple salad with reduced fat feta cheese could include mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and olives. Top with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing and healthy meal.

Feta Cheese Crumble Recipes

Reduced fat feta cheese crumbles are a great addition to many dishes. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:

• Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breasts
• Tomato and Feta Quinoa Salad
• Feta and Pesto Stuffed Portobellos
• Black Bean and Feta Quesadillas

Feta Cheese as a Source of Protein

Protein is an essential nutrient for building and repairing muscles. Feta cheese is a good source of protein, with 1/4 cup (28 g) containing 4 grams of protein. Including feta cheese in your diet can be especially beneficial for vegetarians and vegans, who may struggle to get enough protein from non-animal sources.

Tips for Storing Reduced Fat Feta Cheese

Reduced fat feta cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Store the cheese in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors. If you have leftover feta cheese crumbles, you can freeze them for later use. Simply place the crumbles in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw the cheese in the refrigerator before using.