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Grass-Fed Monterey Jack Cheese
Dairy
Nutri-ScoreA

Grass-Fed Monterey Jack Cheese

Malva sylvestris

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Grass-Fed Monterey Jack Cheese provides 357 kcal, 25g of protein, 2g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese known for its creamy texture and mild flavor. It is produced from the milk of grass-fed cows, which enhances its nutritional profile.

Also known as:
Monterey Jack (USA)Jack Cheese (USA)
Scientific NameMalva sylvestris
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories357 kcal
Water
36%
Fiber0g
Total54.0g
Protein
25g(46%)
Fats
27g(50%)
Carbohydrates
2g(4%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A800 µg (89%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.38 mg (29%)
Vitamin B121.5 µg (62%)
Vitamin D1 µg (5%)
Vitamin E0.25 mg (2%)
Choline15 mg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin K: 0.5 µgFolate: 5 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium721 mg (72%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus500 mg (71%)
Potassium90 mg (2%)
Zinc3 mg (27%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Selenium5 µg (9%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Iron: 0.2 mg

Health Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
Contains beneficial fatty acids from grass-fed sources, which may improve heart health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High in saturated fat; excessive consumption may contribute to cardiovascular issues.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed sliced, melted, or grated in various dishes. Pair with fruits or whole-grain crackers for a nutritious snack.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cheese that is firm and has a clean, fresh smell. Look for products labeled as grass-fed for the best quality.

How to Store

Wrap in wax paper and store in the refrigerator. Avoid plastic wrap to prevent moisture buildup.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in calcium, Protein-rich, Contains beneficial fatty acids
Main Applications
Bone health support
Muscle maintenance
Bioactive Compounds
Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

May help reduce body fat and improve immune function.

How to Consume
Fresh, Grated, Melted, Sliced
Did you know?

"Monterey Jack cheese was first made by Mexican Franciscan friars in California in the 18th century."

Myths vs Realities

MythAll cheese is unhealthy.
RealityModerate consumption of cheese can be part of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients.
MythGrass-fed cheese is just a marketing gimmick.
RealityGrass-fed cheese often has a better nutritional profile and higher omega-3 content.
MythCheese causes weight gain.
RealityCheese can be part of a balanced diet; portion control is key.

Healthy Recipes

Zucchini Noodles with Monterey Jack Cheese Sauce

A light and refreshing dish featuring spiralized zucchini tossed in a creamy Monterey Jack cheese sauce, perfect for a healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 1 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
  2. 2. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
  3. 3. Stir in almond milk and slowly add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. 4. Toss the zucchini noodles in the cheese sauce and serve immediately.

Monterey Jack Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mix of quinoa, black beans, and melted Monterey Jack cheese for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and place in a baking dish.
  4. 4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Monterey Jack and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata loaded with fresh spinach and creamy Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add spinach, and sauté until wilted.
  4. 4. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach, sprinkle with Monterey Jack cheese, and cook for 2-3 minutes until edges set.
  5. 5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the center is set.

Cauliflower and Monterey Jack Cheese Bake

A comforting and healthy cauliflower bake with a creamy Monterey Jack cheese sauce, perfect as a side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam cauliflower florets until tender.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, almond milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Combine the steamed cauliflower with the yogurt mixture and half of the Monterey Jack cheese.
  4. 4. Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Avocado Salad

A refreshing salad featuring creamy avocado, crunchy vegetables, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese, drizzled with a light vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently.
  4. 4. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and serve immediately.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Turkey Wraps

Healthy turkey wraps filled with fresh veggies and melted Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for a quick lunch.

Ingredients
  • 4 whole wheat tortillas
  • 8 slices turkey breast
  • 1 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay out the tortillas and layer each with turkey slices, mixed greens, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
  2. 2. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
  3. 3. Roll up the tortillas tightly and slice in half to serve.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Sweet Potato Quesadillas

Delicious quesadillas filled with roasted sweet potatoes and melted Monterey Jack cheese, served with a side of salsa.

Ingredients
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 whole wheat tortillas
  • 1 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Salsa for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. On one half of each tortilla, layer roasted sweet potatoes and shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
  3. 3. Fold the tortillas over and cook on a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cheese is melted.
  4. 4. Serve with salsa on the side.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Broccoli Soup

A creamy and nutritious soup made with fresh broccoli and melted Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion until translucent.
  2. 2. Add broccoli florets and vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Simmer until broccoli is tender.
  3. 3. Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in almond milk and shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
  4. 4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Grilled Vegetable and Monterey Jack Cheese Sandwich

A hearty sandwich filled with grilled vegetables and melted Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1/2 zucchini, sliced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and grill zucchini and bell pepper until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. Assemble the sandwich with grilled vegetables and shredded Monterey Jack cheese between the slices of bread.
  3. 3. Grill the sandwich on both sides until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Chickpea Salad

A protein-rich salad featuring chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and creamy Monterey Jack cheese, dressed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and cubed Monterey Jack cheese.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is grass-fed Monterey Jack cheese?

It is a semi-hard cheese made from the milk of cows that are exclusively fed grass.

Is it healthier than regular Monterey Jack cheese?

Yes, it typically contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins due to the cows' diet.

Can I use it in cooking?

Absolutely! It melts well and is great for quesadillas, sandwiches, and casseroles.

How should I store it?

Keep it wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Is it suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals?

Some lactose-intolerant individuals may tolerate it better due to the fermentation process.

What dishes pair well with this cheese?

It pairs well with fruits, nuts, and whole-grain crackers.

How long does it last in the fridge?

When properly stored, it can last for several weeks in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Monterey Jack cheese?

Yes, but it may alter the texture; it's best used in cooked dishes after freezing.