Queso Fresco

Queso fresco, meaning 'fresh cheese' in Spanish, is a soft, moist, and crumbly Mexican cheese. It boasts a mild, slightly salty, and milky flavor. Its texture is often described as spongy and slightly grainy. This unaged cheese is typically white in color and holds its shape well, making it perfect for crumbling and sprinkling. Search online for 'authentic Mexican queso fresco' or 'fresh crumbled cheese' to find it locally. Many enjoy cooking with queso fresco, using it as a topping or filler.

Common Uses

  • Crumbled as a topping for tacos and enchiladas: Queso fresco adds a cool, creamy counterpoint to the spicy flavors of traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tostadas.
  • Stuffed into chiles rellenos: Its mild flavor and ability to hold its shape make queso fresco an ideal filling for chiles rellenos, where it melts slightly but retains some texture.
  • Sprinkled over soups and salads: A sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco adds a touch of saltiness and creaminess to soups like tortilla soup or simple green salads, complementing the other ingredients without overpowering them.
  • Added to breakfast dishes like huevos rancheros: Crumble queso fresco over your huevos rancheros for a fresh and flavorful touch. The cheese will lightly melt into the warm sauce and eggs.
  • Served as part of a cheese board or appetizer platter: Queso fresco can be served as part of a cheese board. Add slices of fruit or other cheeses for a great appetizer.
  • Mixed into dips and spreads: It can be mixed with herbs and spices to create a flavorful dip for vegetables or a spread for crackers and sandwiches.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

81.6kcal (4.08%)

Protein

6.2g (12.48%)

Carbs

1.0g (0.35%)

Sugars

1.0g (1.92%)

Healthy Fat

1.6g

Unhealthy Fat

4.4g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Good source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
  • Provides calcium, important for strong bones and teeth.
  • Contains probiotics which promote gut health and improved digestion.
  • Relatively low in fat and calories compared to other cheeses, making it a healthier option.
  • A source of vitamin A, vital for eye health and immune function.
  • Offers a moderate amount of sodium.

Substitutes

Storage Tips

Queso fresco is a fresh cheese and should always be stored in the refrigerator. Keep it tightly wrapped in its original packaging or in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors. For best quality, consume queso fresco within 1-2 weeks of purchase. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell or mold growth, discard it immediately. Freezing is not recommended, as it can significantly alter the texture of the cheese, making it crumbly.

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