If you're a cheese lover, you must try extra sharp cheddar cheese. With only 1/4 cup (28 g) of this cheese, you can get 110 calories, which makes it a perfect snack or ingredient to use in your favorite dishes. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of eating extra sharp cheddar cheese, its serving size and calories, vitamins and minerals, protein source, weight loss, possible health risks, variety, and pairing options.
Besides its delicious taste, Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese also provides you with essential nutrients. This cheese is a good source of calcium, which is crucial for building and maintaining bones and teeth. It also contains vitamin B12, which plays a crucial role in maintaining red blood cells and keeping the nervous system healthy.
Extra sharp cheddar cheese can be used in several ways, like topping salads, making sandwiches or wraps, adding to mac & cheese, or even as a flavorful garnish. Keep reading to learn more about ways to enjoy extra sharp cheddar cheese.
Besides being a delicious snack, extra sharp cheddar cheese has numerous health benefits. This cheese is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in your body. Protein plays a crucial role in providing energy and keeping you full for longer. Extra sharp cheddar cheese is also a good source of healthy fats, which are essential for brain function and reducing inflammation in your body. Additionally, it provides you with vitamins and minerals, like calcium, which is important for building strong bones and maintaining teeth health.
Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese Serving Size and Calories
It's important to know that the serving size and calories of extra sharp cheddar cheese can vary depending on the brand and type of cheese. Generally, 1/4 cup (28 g) of extra sharp cheddar cheese contains about 110 calories. This means that you can enjoy this cheese in moderation as a snack or use it as an ingredient in your favorite dishes. It's crucial to keep in mind that cheese contains saturated fat and sodium, so moderation is key when consuming it. To lower calories and sodium, look for low-fat or reduced-sodium options.
Vitamins and Minerals in Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Extra sharp cheddar cheese is a good source of many essential vitamins and minerals. It provides you with calcium, which is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. Additionally, it contains vitamin B12, which plays a crucial role in maintaining red blood cells and keeping your nervous system healthy. It's also rich in phosphorus, which is vital for building strong bones and teeth, and maintaining energy levels. Moreover, Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese contains selenium, an essential mineral that acts as an antioxidant and protects cells from damage.
Protein is an essential nutrient needed to build, repair and maintain tissues in your body. Extra sharp cheddar cheese is an excellent source of protein, which plays a critical role in providing energy and keeping you full for longer. It's an ideal snack for people who follow a low-carb or keto diet as it provides an easy and quick source of protein. One 1/4 cup (28 g) serving of extra sharp cheddar cheese contains approximately 7 grams of protein. It's important to note that while cheese is a protein source, it's also high in fat, calories, and sodium. To make it a more balanced protein source, pair it with a low-fat or veggie snack.
Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese and Weight Loss
While extra sharp cheddar cheese is high in calories and fat, it provides you with a good source of protein and essential nutrients, like calcium and vitamin B12. Eating a moderate amount of extra sharp cheddar cheese can help you feel full and satisfied, which may help you eat fewer calories throughout the day. However, if you want to lose weight, it's essential to consume extra sharp cheddar cheese in moderation and pair it with low-fat snacks or veggies. Opt for reduced-fat or reduced-sodium options and keep track of your portion sizes.
While extra sharp cheddar cheese is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, it's also high in fat, calories, and sodium. Consuming too much cheese can lead to health risks, such as weight gain and increased cholesterol levels. To reduce the health risks, always consume cheese in moderation and pair it with low-fat or reduced-sodium snacks or veggies. Additionally, if you're lactose intolerant, you must limit or avoid consuming cheese as it can cause digestive problems.
Extra sharp cheddar cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many meals. You can use it to add flavor to your salads, sandwiches, wraps, and even baked goods. Here are some ideas to use extra sharp cheddar cheese to make delicious meals:
- Mac & Cheese: Add extra sharp cheddar cheese to your favorite mac & cheese recipe for a flavorful twist.
- Cheeseburger: Top your burgers with extra sharp cheddar cheese for a cheesy and flavorful meal.
- Quesadilla: Make a cheesy quesadilla by filling it with extra sharp cheddar cheese and veggies.
Extra sharp cheddar cheese comes in many varieties. Some varieties are aged longer than others, which gives them more robust and sharper flavor. Here are some types of extra sharp cheddar cheese:
- Aged White Cheddar: This cheese is aged for more than a year, giving it a distinct crumbly texture and sharp flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar: This cheese is aged for 6-9 months, giving it a milder flavor than extra sharp cheddar cheese.
- Extra Sharp White Cheddar: This cheese is aged for more than two years, giving it an intense flavor and crumbly texture.
Extra sharp cheddar cheese pairs well with many foods, including fruits, veggies, bread, and crackers. Here are some pairing ideas to enjoy extra sharp cheddar cheese:
- Apples and extra sharp cheddar cheese: The sweetness of the apples complements the sharpness of the cheese.
- Extra sharp cheddar cheese and nuts: Nuts add crunch and a healthy fat source that pairs well with cheese.
- Cheese and crackers: Pair extra sharp cheddar cheese with whole-grain crackers for a quick and easy snack.
Buying and Storing Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
When buying extra sharp cheddar cheese, look for options that are low in fat and sodium. Be sure to check the expiration date and look for cheese sold in blocks, which is fresher than pre-shredded options. To store extra sharp cheddar cheese, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge. It can last for up to three weeks in the fridge, but if you notice any significant changes in its color, smell, or texture, discard it.
Extra sharp cheddar cheese is a delicious and nutritious cheese that can be used in many meals. It's an excellent source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, like calcium and vitamin B12.
Frequently Asked Questions about Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1. What is extra sharp cheddar cheese?
Extra sharp cheddar cheese is a type of cheddar cheese that has been aged for a longer period of time, resulting in a sharper flavor and harder texture than regular cheddar.
2. How many calories are in 1/4 cup of extra sharp cheddar cheese?
There are 110 calories in 1/4 cup (28 g) of extra sharp cheddar cheese.
3. Is extra sharp cheddar cheese good for you?
In moderation, extra sharp cheddar cheese can be part of a healthy diet. It is a good source of protein and calcium. However, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation.
4. What are some ways to use extra sharp cheddar cheese?
Extra sharp cheddar cheese can be used in a variety of ways, such as in sandwiches, omelets, salads, and soups. It is also great for snacking on its own or with some crackers or fruit.