If you're a cheese lover looking for a low-calorie option, then you may want to consider adding feta cheese to your diet. With just 80 calories per 30-gram serving, feta cheese can be a tasty and nutritious addition to your meals.
Not only is feta cheese lower in calories than many other cheese types, but it also contains a decent amount of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. A 30-gram serving of feta cheese typically contains about 5 grams of fat, 4 grams of protein, and 15% of the daily value for calcium.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of feta cheese, as well as some tips for using and storing it properly.
Feta Cheese Calories
As mentioned earlier, a 30-gram serving of feta cheese contains 80 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie cheese option compared to some other types, such as cheddar cheese which can contain up to 120 calories per serving. If you're watching your calorie intake, then feta cheese may be a great choice for adding flavor to meals without adding too many extra calories.
Feta Cheese Fat Content
While feta cheese isn't completely fat-free, it does contain less fat than some other cheese types. A 30-gram serving of feta cheese typically contains about 5 grams of fat, which is less than cheeses like cheddar or brie. If you're trying to reduce your fat intake, then feta cheese may be a good choice for adding flavor to meals without going overboard on fat.
Feta Cheese Sodium Content
Feta cheese is a relatively low-sodium cheese option, with a 30-gram serving typically containing around 300 milligrams of sodium. This is about 13% of the recommended daily value for sodium. If you're watching your sodium intake, then feta cheese may be a good choice for adding flavor to meals without adding too much extra sodium.
Feta Cheese Protein Content
Feta cheese is a good source of protein, with a 30-gram serving typically containing about 4 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as producing enzymes and hormones. If you're looking for a way to increase your protein intake, then feta cheese may be a great addition to your diet.
Feta Cheese Vitamin Content
Feta cheese contains several vitamins that are important for overall health, including vitamins A and B12. A 30-gram serving of feta cheese typically contains about 12% of the daily value for vitamin B12 and 9% of the daily value for vitamin A. Vitamin B12 is important for maintaining healthy nerves and red blood cells, while vitamin A is essential for healthy vision, skin, and immune function.
Feta Cheese Mineral Content
Feta cheese is also a good source of several minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. A 30-gram serving of feta cheese typically contains about 15% of the daily value for calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Phosphorus is important for energy production and bone health, while zinc is important for immune function and wound healing.
Feta Cheese Carbohydrate Content
Feta cheese is a low-carbohydrate cheese option, with a 30-gram serving typically containing less than 1 gram of carbohydrates. If you're following a low-carbohydrate diet or watching your carb intake, then feta cheese may be a good choice for adding flavor to meals without adding too many extra carbs.
Feta Cheese Benefits
In addition to being a low-calorie, high-protein cheese option, feta cheese also provides several other health benefits. For example, some studies have suggested that eating moderate amounts of cheese may be associated with a lower risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Feta cheese is also a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help support digestive health and boost the immune system.
Feta Cheese Culinary Uses
Feta cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. It's a common ingredient in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, and can be used in salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and more. Some popular dishes that feature feta cheese include Greek salad, spanakopita, and stuffed peppers.
Feta Cheese Storage
To ensure that your feta cheese stays fresh and safe to eat, it's important to store it properly. Feta cheese should be kept in the refrigerator at all times, and should be consumed within 5-7 days of opening. If you're storing feta cheese in brine, be sure to keep the cheese fully submerged in the brine to prevent it from drying out. It's also a good idea to keep the cheese in an airtight container or plastic wrap to prevent exposure to air and other contaminants.
If you're a cheese lover, then you don't have to give up cheese entirely to maintain a healthy diet. Adding moderate amounts of low-calorie, high-protein cheese options like feta cheese to your meals can be a great way to add flavor and nutrition without overdoing it on calories, fat, or sodium.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Feta Cheese
1. What is feta cheese?
Feta cheese is a salty, crumbly cheese made from sheep's milk and sometimes mixed with goat's milk. It originates from Greece and is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.
2. How do I store feta cheese?
You should store feta cheese in the refrigerator in its original packaging or wrapped in plastic wrap or foil. It can last for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
3. Can feta cheese be frozen?
Yes, feta cheese can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
4. How is feta cheese typically used in cooking?
Feta cheese is versatile and can be crumbled over salads, stuffed into pastries like spanakopita, or used in dips like tzatziki. It can also be used as a topping on pizza or mixed into pasta dishes.
5. Is feta cheese a healthy choice?
Feta cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12. However, it is also high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation. It is also important to choose a high-quality feta cheese made from natural ingredients.