Cheese

• Use shredded cheese as a topping for pizzas, adding a rich, melted layer of flavor. Experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for a complex taste profile.- Incorporate cheese into creamy sauces for pasta dishes such as mac and cheese, alfredo, or carbonara. Choose cheeses that melt easily like cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina for smooth and decadent results.- Create elegant cheese boards featuring a variety of cheeses, fruits, nuts, and crackers. Select cheeses with different textures and flavor profiles, such as a soft brie, a sharp cheddar, and a crumbly blue cheese.- Add crumbled or cubed cheese to salads to enhance their flavor and add a creamy, savory element. Feta, goat cheese, and blue cheese are popular choices for salads.- Employ cheese in baked goods like quiches, tarts, and bread for a cheesy and flavorful touch. Cheddar, Gruyère, and Swiss cheese work well in baked applications.- Utilize cheese as a filling for ravioli, tortellini, or enchiladas, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are commonly used for these fillings.

• Good source of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• Provides protein for muscle building and repair.
• Contains essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and riboflavin.
• Some cheeses contain probiotics that may support gut health.
• Source of healthy fats, which are important for hormone production and energy.
• May help improve satiety and manage appetite.

Proper cheese storage depends on the type of cheese. Hard cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan should be wrapped tightly in wax paper or cheese paper and then placed in a resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. Soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert should be stored in their original packaging or wrapped in parchment paper in the refrigerator. Fresh cheeses, such as ricotta and mozzarella, should be kept in their original liquid or in a container with whey in the refrigerator and used within a few days of opening. Freezing cheese is not generally recommended as it can alter the texture, making it crumbly, but hard cheeses can be frozen if properly wrapped.