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Lactose-Free Monterey Jack Cheese
Dairy
Nutri-ScoreA

Lactose-Free Monterey Jack Cheese

Lactococcus lactis

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Lactose-Free Monterey Jack Cheese provides 350 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.

Lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese is a semi-soft cheese known for its mild flavor and creamy texture, making it an excellent alternative for those with lactose intolerance.

Also known as:
Monterey Jack (USA)Jack Cheese (USA)
Scientific NameLactococcus lactis
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories350 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)0.5 mg (38%)
Vitamin B121.5 µg (62%)
Choline15 mg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium700 mg (54%)
Phosphorus500 mg (71%)
Selenium14 µg (25%)
Zinc3 mg (27%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting muscle health and bone density.
Contains beneficial fats that can aid in nutrient absorption and provide energy.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Some individuals may still experience sensitivity to dairy proteins. Consult a healthcare provider if unsure.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed melted in dishes, sliced in sandwiches, or grated over salads.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cheese that is labeled 'lactose-free' and check for a firm texture and fresh smell.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Digestive aid for lactose-intolerant individualsSource of calcium for bone health
Main Applications
Culinary uses in cooking and baking
Nutritional supplement for lactose-intolerant diets
Bioactive Compounds
Calcium

Essential for bone health and muscle function.

Protein

Supports muscle repair and growth.

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

MythLactose-free cheese contains no dairy.
RealityLactose-free cheese is still made from dairy but has the lactose removed.
MythAll cheese is lactose-free.
RealityNot all cheese is lactose-free; many contain lactose.
MythLactose-free cheese is less nutritious than regular cheese.
RealityLactose-free cheese retains similar nutritional benefits as regular cheese.

Healthy Recipes

Zucchini Noodles with Monterey Jack Cheese Sauce

A light and refreshing dish featuring spiralized zucchini topped with a creamy lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese sauce, perfect for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 1 cup lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup 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 and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  3. 3. Add almond milk and lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. 4. Toss the zucchini noodles in the cheese sauce and serve immediately.

Quinoa and Monterey Jack Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious quinoa mixture and melted lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese, making for a wholesome and filling meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed
  • 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 the bell peppers with the quinoa mixture and top with lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese.
  4. 4. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Spinach Omelette

A protein-packed omelette filled with fresh spinach and melted lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for a healthy breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk eggs with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add spinach, cooking until wilted.
  3. 3. Pour in the eggs and cook until edges firm up, then sprinkle cheese on one half.
  4. 4. Fold the omelette and cook until cheese melts, then serve hot.

Lactose-Free Monterey Jack Cheese and Broccoli Frittata

A delicious frittata packed with broccoli and lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Ingredients
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese
  • 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 and sauté broccoli until tender.
  4. 4. Pour egg mixture over broccoli, sprinkle cheese on top, and cook on the stove for 2-3 minutes before transferring to the oven.
  5. 5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until set and golden.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Avocado Toast

A simple yet flavorful avocado toast topped with creamy lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese, making for a perfect snack or light meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1/2 cup lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. Mash the avocado in a bowl and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the mashed avocado on the toasted bread and top with shredded lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese.
  4. 4. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired and serve immediately.

Monterey Jack Cheese Cauliflower Bake

A healthy twist on a classic comfort food, this cauliflower bake is creamy and cheesy, featuring lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 cup lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam the cauliflower florets until tender.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix almond milk, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Combine steamed cauliflower with the mixture and transfer to a baking dish.
  4. 4. Top with lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Turkey Wraps

These healthy turkey wraps are filled with fresh veggies and creamy lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese, making them a perfect on-the-go meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 whole grain tortillas
  • 8 ounces sliced turkey breast
  • 1 cup lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
  • 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay out the tortillas and layer each with sliced turkey, mixed greens, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
  2. 2. Sprinkle lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese on top of the fillings.
  3. 3. Roll the tortillas tightly and slice in half to serve.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Tomato Salad

A refreshing salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese, drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine sliced tomatoes, cubed cheese, and basil leaves.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Sweet Potato Quesadillas

Delicious quesadillas filled with roasted sweet potatoes and melted lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 whole wheat tortillas
  • 1 cup lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes.
  2. 2. On one half of each tortilla, layer roasted sweet potatoes and sprinkle with lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese.
  3. 3. Fold the tortillas in half and cook on a skillet over medium heat until cheese melts and tortillas are golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese suitable for vegans?

No, it is a dairy product and not suitable for vegans.

How is lactose-free cheese made?

Lactose-free cheese is made by adding lactase enzyme to regular cheese, breaking down lactose.

Can lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese be used in cooking?

Yes, it melts well and can be used in various recipes.

Does lactose-free cheese taste different from regular cheese?

Generally, it has a similar taste, but some may notice slight differences in texture.

How long does lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese last?

It can last up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator if unopened.

Is lactose-free cheese healthier than regular cheese?

It can be a better option for those with lactose intolerance, but nutritional content is similar.

Can I freeze lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese?

Yes, it can be frozen, but texture may change upon thawing.

What dishes can I make with lactose-free Monterey Jack cheese?

It is great for quesadillas, nachos, and casseroles.