fontina

Fontina

Fontina is a semi-hard Italian cow's milk cheese prized for its smooth, creamy texture and nutty, slightly sweet flavor. Its pale ivory color and characteristic small holes (eyes) make it easily identifiable. Fontina melts beautifully, making it a versatile cheese for a variety of dishes. When aged, the cheese develops a more pungent and complex flavor profile. Authentic Fontina Valdostana from the Aosta Valley in Italy is considered the highest quality, though similar versions are produced elsewhere. Discover the delightful taste and melting qualities of fontina cheese for your next culinary creation. Many seek information on "how to cook with fontina cheese" or "best fontina cheese recipes", highlighting its popularity.

Common Uses

  • Melted in grilled cheese sandwiches: Fontina elevates the classic grilled cheese with its superior melting properties and rich, nutty flavor, creating a gourmet experience. Often people search for "fontina grilled cheese recipe."
  • Used in fondues and gratins: Fontina's smooth melting texture makes it ideal for creating decadent fondues or adding a creamy layer to gratins, adding depth and richness.
  • As a pizza topping: Diced or shredded fontina adds a unique flavor and creamy texture to pizzas, contrasting nicely with traditional mozzarella. Many search for "fontina cheese pizza recipe."
  • Added to omelets and frittatas: Fontina lends a creamy, decadent texture and subtle nutty flavor to omelets and frittatas, creating a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.
  • Incorporated into pasta sauces: Melted into creamy pasta sauces, fontina adds richness and depth, complementing various pasta shapes and ingredients.
  • Served as part of a cheese board: Fontina is delicious on its own, perfect to pair with fruits, nuts, and crackers, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

110.0kcal (5.5%)

Protein

7.3g (14.6%)

Carbs

0.3g (0.11%)

Sugars

0.3g (0.6%)

Healthy Fat

2.8g

Unhealthy Fat

5.5g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Good source of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
  • Contains protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
  • Provides vitamin A, important for vision and immune function.
  • Offers B vitamins, which support energy metabolism.
  • Contains zinc, which helps boost immunity and overall wellness.

Storage Tips

Fontina cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then placed in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors from other foods. Storing it in the cheese drawer of your refrigerator is also a good option, as this area typically maintains a more consistent temperature and humidity level. For optimal freshness, consume within 1-2 weeks of purchase or opening. Fontina is not ideal for freezing as the texture can change, becoming crumbly upon thawing.

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