A 1" cube (28 g) of Queso Fresco Mexican-Style Fresh White Cheese contains approximately 90 calories. This traditional Mexican cheese is popular for its delicious taste and crumbly texture. It is widely used in many dishes and provides several nutritional benefits.
In addition to its calorie content, Queso Fresco contains 7 grams of fat, 6 grams of protein, and 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving. It is also a good source of calcium and phosphorus, two essential minerals for bone health.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional values, health benefits, and ways to use Queso Fresco. We'll also compare it with other types of cheese and provide some tasty recipes to inspire your culinary creativity.
Calories in Queso Fresco
As previously mentioned, a 1" cube (28 g) of Queso Fresco contains approximately 90 calories. Compared to other types of cheese, Queso Fresco is relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those watching their weight. It is worth noting that the calorie content may vary depending on the brand and the serving size. It's always a good idea to check the nutrition label before consuming any food.
Fat in Queso Fresco
Queso Fresco is a high-fat cheese, with 7 grams of fat per serving. However, most of the fat in this cheese comes from healthy unsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid and linoleic acid. These types of fat are beneficial for heart health, as they help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Protein in Queso Fresco
Queso Fresco is a good source of protein, providing 6 grams per serving. Protein is an essential nutrient that plays many important roles in the body, such as building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining fluid balance.
Carbohydrates in Queso Fresco
Queso Fresco is a low-carbohydrate cheese, with only 1 gram of carbs per serving. This makes it a good option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Vitamins in Queso Fresco
Queso Fresco is not a significant source of vitamins. However, it does contain small amounts of vitamin A and vitamin B12. Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune function, and skin health, while vitamin B12 is important for the nervous system and the production of red blood cells.
Minerals in Queso Fresco
Queso Fresco is a good source of calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that are essential for bone health. Calcium is also important for muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting, while phosphorus is involved in energy metabolism and DNA synthesis. Queso Fresco also contains small amounts of other minerals, such as sodium and potassium.
Health benefits of Queso Fresco
Queso Fresco provides several health benefits due to its nutritional profile. Its high protein content can help to increase satiety, reduce appetite, and promote weight loss. Its calcium and phosphorus content can improve bone density and prevent osteoporosis, especially in older adults. Additionally, the unsaturated fats in Queso Fresco may help to lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health.
Ways to use Queso Fresco
Queso Fresco is a versatile cheese that can be used in many dishes. It is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, such as tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. It can also be sliced and added to salads, sandwiches, and omelets. Additionally, it can be crumbled over soups, stews, and roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless!
Comparison with other types of cheese
Compared to other types of cheese, Queso Fresco is relatively low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. For example, cheddar cheese contains 113 calories, 9 grams of fat, and 1 gram of carbs per serving. However, Queso Fresco is not as high in protein as some other types of cheese, such as cottage cheese, which contains 14 grams of protein per serving.
Queso Fresco recipes
If you're looking for some tasty Queso Fresco recipes, here are a few ideas: - Grilled Queso Fresco Salad: Toss mixed greens with grilled Queso Fresco, avocado, tomato, and a cilantro lime vinaigrette. - Queso Fresco Enchiladas: Roll corn tortillas filled with shredded chicken, black beans, and Queso Fresco, then top with enchilada sauce and bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Queso Fresco provides several health benefits due to its high protein, calcium, and phosphorus content. Its delicious taste and crumbly texture make it a popular choice for many dishes.
5 FAQ about Queso Fresco Mexican-Style Fresh White Cheese
1) What is Queso Fresco cheese?
Queso Fresco is a type of Mexican cheese that is known for its crumbly texture and tangy flavor. It is made from fresh cow's milk and is typically consumed in dishes such as tacos, salads, and salsas. It is a soft, white cheese that is commonly found in Latin American markets and grocery stores.
2) Is Queso Fresco cheese healthy?
Queso Fresco cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which are important nutrients for building and maintaining strong bones and muscles. However, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
3) How should Queso Fresco cheese be stored?
Queso Fresco cheese should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It should be consumed within a few days of purchase and should never be left out at room temperature for more than two hours.
4) How is Queso Fresco cheese typically used in cooking?
Queso Fresco cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly crumbled over tacos, enchiladas, and salads, and is also used in salsas, dips, and soups. It can be melted over nachos, quesadillas, and pizzas, or used as a filling for empanadas and tamales.
5) Are there any similar cheeses to Queso Fresco?
Yes, there are several cheeses that are similar to Queso Fresco. Some examples include feta cheese, paneer cheese, and ricotta cheese. Each of these cheeses has a similar crumbly texture and can be used in similar ways in cooking.