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Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese
Dairy
Nutri-ScoreA

Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese

Malva sylvestris

Clinical Encyclopedia

Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese is a semi-soft cheese known for its mild flavor and creamy texture. It is rich in calcium and protein, making it a popular choice for various culinary applications.

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 b1 (thiamine)0.03 mg (2%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.38 mg (29%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.4 mg (8%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.05 mg (4%)
Vitamin B121.3 µg (54%)
Choline18 mg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin b3 (niacin): 0.1 mgFolate: 5 µgVitamin D: 0.2 µgVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 0.2 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium721 mg (72%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus500 mg (71%)
Potassium150 mg (4%)
Zinc3 mg (27%)
Copper0.02 mg (2%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Iron: 0.2 mgManganese: 0.01 mgSelenium: 0.5 µg

Health Benefits

Rich in calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Contains high-quality protein that supports muscle growth and repair.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort. Consult a healthcare provider if unsure.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed melted in dishes, grated over salads, or served with crackers and fruits.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cheese that is firm and has a smooth texture without cracks or holes.

How to Store

Wrap in wax paper and store in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Rich in calcium, Protein-rich, Supports bone health
Main Applications
Culinary uses in cooking and baking
Snack cheese for pairing with fruits and nuts
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

MythCheese is unhealthy and should be avoided.
RealityCheese can be part of a balanced diet and provides essential nutrients.
MythAll cheese is high in fat and calories.
RealityThere are low-fat cheese options available, including reduced-fat Monterey Jack.
MythLactose-free cheese is tasteless.
RealityMany lactose-free cheeses retain their flavor and texture, including Monterey Jack.

Healthy Recipes

Monterey Jack Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers

These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, vegetables, and Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, making for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
  3. 3. In a bowl, mix quinoa, tomatoes, corn, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers.
  4. 4. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded Monterey Jack Cheese.
  5. 5. Place the peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese and Spinach Omelette

Start your day right with this fluffy omelette packed with fresh spinach and creamy Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese for a protein-rich breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and sauté the spinach until wilted.
  3. 3. Pour the eggs over the spinach and cook until the edges begin to set.
  4. 4. Sprinkle the Monterey Jack Cheese on one half of the omelette, fold it over, and cook until fully set.

Zucchini Noodles with Monterey Jack Cheese Sauce

This healthy twist on pasta features zucchini noodles topped with a creamy Monterey Jack cheese sauce, perfect for a low-carb meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add almond milk and bring to a simmer, then stir in the Monterey Jack Cheese until melted and smooth.
  3. 3. Toss the zucchini noodles in the cheese sauce until well coated and heated through.
  4. 4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Black Bean Tacos

These flavorful tacos are filled with black beans, fresh veggies, and melted Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup diced avocado
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet until pliable.
  2. 2. In each tortilla, layer black beans, diced avocado, and tomatoes.
  3. 3. Top with shredded Monterey Jack Cheese and sprinkle with cilantro.
  4. 4. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese and Broccoli Quiche

This crustless quiche is loaded with broccoli and creamy Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, making it a healthy option for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stir in the steamed broccoli and Monterey Jack Cheese.
  4. 4. Pour the mixture into a greased pie dish and bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden.

Grilled Vegetable and Monterey Jack Cheese Sandwich

This hearty sandwich features grilled vegetables and melted Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, served on whole grain bread for a nutritious lunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1/2 cup assorted grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant)
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, sliced
  • 1 tbsp pesto
  • Olive oil for grilling
Instructions
  1. 1. Brush vegetables with olive oil and grill until tender.
  2. 2. Spread pesto on one slice of bread and layer with grilled vegetables and Monterey Jack Cheese.
  3. 3. Top with the second slice of bread and grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

Monterey Jack Cheese Cauliflower Bake

This comforting cauliflower bake is smothered in a creamy Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese sauce, making it a deliciously healthy side dish.

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

Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese and Herb Stuffed Chicken Breast

This juicy chicken breast is stuffed with a flavorful mixture of herbs and Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, making it a protein-packed dinner option.

Ingredients
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, basil, thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. In a bowl, mix the cheese and herbs, then stuff the mixture into the chicken pockets.
  4. 4. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken on both sides, then transfer to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

Monterey Jack Cheese and Sweet Potato Fritters

These crispy fritters made from sweet potatoes and Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese are a delightful and healthy snack or appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups grated sweet potato
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine grated sweet potato, cheese, flour, eggs, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. 3. Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into the skillet and flatten slightly. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
  4. 4. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Monterey Jack cheese lactose-free?

No, Monterey Jack cheese contains lactose, but aged varieties may have lower levels.

Can I use Monterey Jack cheese for baking?

Yes, it melts well and is great for baking in casseroles and pizzas.

What dishes pair well with Monterey Jack cheese?

It pairs well with tacos, quesadillas, and as a topping for burgers.

How should I store Monterey Jack cheese?

Keep it wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper in the refrigerator.

Is Monterey Jack cheese healthy?

In moderation, it can be part of a healthy diet due to its protein and calcium content.

Can I freeze Monterey Jack cheese?

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

What is the difference between Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack?

Pepper Jack is Monterey Jack cheese with added spicy peppers for flavor.

Is Monterey Jack cheese suitable for children?

Yes, it's a good source of calcium and protein for growing children.