If you’ve ever missed the tangy, crumbly delight of feta cheese but follow a vegan lifestyle, you’re in for a treat! This vegan feta recipe captures the essence of traditional feta without any dairy, using simple plant-based ingredients that you can easily find at home or your local health store.
Whether you’re looking to top your salads, enhance Mediterranean dishes, or add a burst of flavor to your pasta, this vegan feta is creamy, flavorful, and perfectly crumbly.
Crafted from nutrient-rich cashews and infused with herbs and a hint of lemon, this recipe offers the perfect balance of tanginess and saltiness. Plus, it’s an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, making it not only delicious but nourishing too.
Say goodbye to store-bought vegan cheeses loaded with preservatives and hello to a wholesome, homemade alternative that you can customize to your taste.
Ready to whip up your own batch? Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how easy it is to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan feta recipe stands out for many reasons. First, it uses whole-food ingredients like cashews, coconut oil, and nutritional yeast, making it a healthier choice compared to processed vegan cheeses.
It’s incredibly versatile — crumble it on salads, stir it into your favorite grain bowls, or spread it on toast for an instant flavor boost. The tangy, salty profile mimics traditional feta perfectly, thanks to the addition of lemon juice and apple cider vinegar.
Also, it requires minimal preparation and no fancy equipment. The cheese firms up in the fridge, allowing you to make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week.
If you love Mediterranean flavors, this vegan feta will quickly become a pantry staple.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 1 hour, then drained)
- 1/4 cup refined coconut oil (melted)
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment
- High-speed blender or food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small saucepan (optional, for melting coconut oil)
- Loaf pan or small container for setting the cheese
- Plastic wrap or lid
Instructions
- Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for at least 1 hour to soften, then drain thoroughly.
- Prepare the blender: Add the soaked cashews, melted coconut oil, water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and black pepper to your blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth: Blend on high speed for 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. The texture should be slightly thick but pourable.
- Transfer and set: Pour the mixture into a lined loaf pan or small container. Smooth the top with a spatula and cover with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Chill: Refrigerate the vegan feta for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until it firms up and becomes sliceable and crumbly.
- Serve: Once set, remove from the container and slice or crumble as desired.
- Store: Keep the vegan feta covered in the fridge for up to one week. It also freezes well if you want to store it longer.
Tips & Variations
To get that authentic feta texture, make sure you soak the cashews well. Longer soaking results in a creamier cheese!
If you prefer a firmer feta, reduce the water to 2 tablespoons or add a teaspoon of agar powder dissolved in hot water before blending. You can also experiment with adding fresh herbs like dill or thyme for a different flavor profile.
For a nut-free version, try using firm tofu instead of cashews, blending it with similar seasonings and letting it marinate for stronger flavor.
To make your vegan feta more tangy, increase the lemon juice by a tablespoon or add a splash of white miso paste for a savory umami boost.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx. 2 tbsp) |
---|---|
Calories | 90 |
Fat | 7 g |
Saturated Fat | 4 g |
Carbohydrates | 3 g |
Protein | 2 g |
Fiber | 1 g |
Sodium | 200 mg |
This vegan feta is rich in healthy fats from the cashews and coconut oil, with a good balance of protein and fiber. The nutritional yeast adds B vitamins and a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your homemade vegan feta:
- Salads: Crumble over Greek-style salads with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion.
- Mediterranean Bowls: Add to grain bowls with quinoa, roasted veggies, and hummus for extra flavor.
- Pasta: Stir crumbled feta into warm pasta dishes or sprinkle on top of your favorite vegan Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
- Toast & Snacks: Spread on toasted bread with fresh herbs and olive oil for a quick snack.
- Stuffed Peppers or Mushrooms: Use as a stuffing ingredient mixed with herbs and breadcrumbs.
If you love Mediterranean-inspired meals, you might also enjoy exploring more with our Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals.
Conclusion
Making your own vegan feta cheese at home is a wonderful way to enjoy the rich, tangy flavors of traditional feta without compromising your plant-based lifestyle. This recipe is simple, wholesome, and adaptable, allowing you to customize the taste and texture to suit your preferences.
Not only does this vegan feta enhance your dishes with a burst of flavor, but it also adds nutritional value with healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just experimenting with plant-based options, this recipe is a must-try for any kitchen.
Don’t forget to check out other fantastic vegan recipes on our site, like the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves or the indulgent Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Feta Recipe
Description: A tangy and crumbly vegan feta cheese made from tofu and nutritional yeast. Perfect for salads, sandwiches, and Mediterranean dishes.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M
Servings: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Crumble tofu into a medium bowl.
- Add lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, nutritional yeast, salt, garlic powder, and oregano.
- Pour in water and mix well until combined.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
Nutrition: Calories: 140 | Protein: 15g | Fat: 7g | Carbs: 4g
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