If you are a cheese lover, then Jalapeño Pepper Jack is a must-try indulgence! One slice of Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese (23 grams) holds 81 calories, so take caution if you are on a restricted calorie diet. However, these calories come loaded with a wide array of nutrients that make it worthwhile considering to incorporate it into your diet.

Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese is a savory and spicy cheese prepared by incorporating jalapeño peppers into Monterey Jack cheese. It is high in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, making it a healthy and tasty option for a snack or a meal. A single slice of Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese provides about 7 grams of protein, 20% of the daily recommended calcium intake, and a good amount of vitamin A and iron, among other micronutrients.

In this article, we'll look at the nutritional value of Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese, its health benefits, and some creative ways to include it in your diet. We'll also provide you with some tips on buying and storing Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese, pairing it with other foods, and alternative options for those who can't tolerate spicy cheeses. Let's get started and take a deep-dive into the world of Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese!

Calories in Jalapeño Pepper Jack Cheese Slice

As mentioned before, one slice (23g) of Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese contains 81 calories. Although that might seem like a lot for a single slice of cheese, it does provide a good amount of nutrients that can help you feel fuller for longer periods. The key is to consume it in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. For those who are looking to control their calorie intake, Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese can be an excellent alternative compared to other cheese varieties that are higher in fat and calories. However, keep in mind that it is still high in sodium, so individuals who are trying to reduce sodium intake should limit their consumption.

Macronutrients in Jalapeño Pepper Jack Cheese

Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and other essential micronutrients. One slice of Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese (23g) provides around 7 grams of protein, 20% of the daily recommended calcium intake, and also offers a good amount of vitamin A, iron, and vitamin B12. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth and is an important building block for various enzymes and hormones in our body. Calcium is necessary for strong bones and teeth, nerve and muscle function, and also plays a vital role in blood clotting. Vitamin A helps maintain healthy eyesight, immune function, and skin health, while iron is essential for red blood cell formation and oxygen transport.

Vitamins in Jalapeño Pepper Jack Cheese Slice

As previously mentioned, a single slice of Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese provides a good amount of vitamin A and vitamin B12. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting healthy skin and vision, while vitamin B12 helps keep nerve and blood cells healthy and is necessary for DNA synthesis. Additionally, it contains small amounts of various other vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E, among others. These vitamins play different roles in our body, such as supporting immune function, promoting healthy skin, and maintaining healthy hormonal balance.

Minerals in Jalapeño Pepper Jack Cheese Slice

Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese is a good source of calcium, iron, and phosphorus. These minerals are critical in maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and muscle function, among other functions. It also contains small amounts of magnesium, zinc, and other trace minerals that play various physiological roles in our body, such as promoting cardiovascular health and immune function. However, keep in mind that Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese is also high in sodium, so individuals who are sensitive to sodium should limit their intake.

Health Benefits of Jalapeño Pepper Jack

Aside from its great taste, Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese has several health benefits. Firstly, it's high in protein, essential for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and tissues, as well as many other physiological functions in the body. Secondly, it's a good source of calcium and iron, essential for strong and healthy bones, teeth, and red blood cell formation. Cheese is a versatile grocery item that can be incorporated into many different meals or snacks, making it easier to meet the body's calcium and iron requirements. Additionally, Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese is easy to digest for most people and contains several vitamins that are beneficial for overall health, including vitamin A and vitamin B12. Some studies have also suggested that consuming cheese may have positive effects on gut health and can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.

Ways to Incorporate Jalapeño Pepper Jack into your Diet

There are many ways to incorporate Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese into your diet. One of the simplest and most common ways is to use it as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or salads. Another popular use is to incorporate it into omelets, quesadillas, or fajitas for a spicy twist. Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese can also be used as a dip with tortilla chips, cut vegetables, or even as a topping for pizzas. Finally, you can pair it with crackers, nuts, or fruits for a quick and satisfying snack. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for Buying and Storing Jalapeño Pepper Jack Cheese

When buying Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese, look for high-quality options from trusted brands. You might find different varieties of Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese in the market, like smoked or aged Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese. Choose the one that you like the most and suits your needs. When storing Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container and store it in the fridge. If you bought a block of cheese, you can slice it and store it in portions for easy access. Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese can last for up to three weeks if stored correctly.

Jalapeño Pepper Jack Cheese Pairings

Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese is a great ingredient to pair with other foods. Its spicy kick goes well with a variety of flavors, and it can enhance the taste and texture of several dishes. Some of the most popular pairings include pairing it with crackers, tortilla chips, or cut vegetables as a snack. It also goes well with a variety of meats, including chicken, beef, and pork, adding an extra zest of flavor to these dishes. You can use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, or pizzas as well. Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese also pairs well with wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir, which complement its spicy and tangy character.

Potential Side Effects of Consuming Jalapeño Pepper Jack Cheese

Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese is generally safe to consume for most individuals. However, some people may be sensitive to spicy foods and might experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, or heartburn after consuming it. Moreover, Jalapeño Pepper Jack cheese is high in sodium, so consuming too much may result in high blood pressure in some individuals. Moderation is key when consuming this cheese variety, especially for those on a restricted sodium diet.

Alternatives to Jalapeño Pepper Jack Cheese

If you cannot tolerate spicy cheese varieties, there are several other options you can consider. For example, Cheddar cheese and Colby-Jack cheese are excellent alternatives that still provide essential nutrients such as protein and calcium but are less spicy. Alternatively, you can opt for milder pepper varieties such as bell pepper cheese for a subtle kick of flavor. If you are looking for a dairy-free or vegan option, there are several plant-based cheese alternatives available in the market that offer similar flavors and textures as their dairy-based counterparts.