Substitute for Healthy Cheese
Best Substitute for Healthy Cheese
Some fitness enthusiasts might argue about putting cheese on their healthy diet but for some, they will enjoy eating it as much as they can.
Cheese is essentially rich in nutrients such as protein, calcium, and amino acids that are good for the body and not just for the taste buds. It is also produced by a variety of animals like cows, goats, and sheep, hence, can be considered organic.
There is numerous cheese production all over the world and they yield assorted flavors and textures. Too much consumption of cheese can cause a slight concern since it is high in calories, sodium, and fat.
But of course, if we do not indulge too much, having it part of our diet can be very beneficial. And for the love of cheese, let us check out some of the healthiest selections we can enjoy in moderation.
Top Six Healthiest Cheeses in 2024
Mozzarella
Mozzarella is the majority’s favorite cheese. It is a soft white less aged cheese with a mild salty flavor and moist texture.
No one can argue that it is one of the best ingredients of a pizza that gives additional flavor and bite that everybody loves. Thankfully it is very low in calories and fat making it a healthier option. In 1-ounce of mozzarella, it has 85 calories, 6g of fat, and only 138 mg of sodium.
It also contains calcium, protein, vitamin A and probiotics that are good for the immune system. It also tastes delicious topped in salads or paired with fresh tomatoes and balsamic vinegar.
Cottage Cheese
Versatile in nature, cottage cheese is a fresh cheese that does not undergo any process and is also not aged. It begins with adding enzymes (or any acidic ingredient) into the milk that will turn into lactic acid.
Curd, which is now the cheese, will be separated from the whey which is the liquid part of the milk. Cottage cheese is most popular among athletes as it is rich in protein that is best for muscle gaining.
For a half cup of serving, it contains 12g of protein, 92 calories, and 125 mg of calcium. There are a lot of creative ways you can use this variety of cheese in many recipes.
With its soft texture and mild flavor, it can be an ingredient in salads, sauces, smoothies, or any baked goods. Although cottage cheese is not advisable for lactose intolerant individuals.
Ricotta
Ricotta is made out of the whey from other cheese production. Ricotta translates to recook in Italian and is also known as “whey cheese”. Whey protein helps a lot in reducing cholesterol and contains essential amino acids. In 100 grams of ricotta, it contains 97 calories, 11 grams of protein, and only 242 milligrams of sodium.
The texture of the cheese is light and moist with a mildly sweet flavor. If you love toast then the ricotta is the best variety you can pair it with since it is very spreadable. And for starters, ricotta can be used in lasagna filling or topped in pasta or soups.
Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese is popularly known for its holes, sometimes called ‘the eyes’. It is first made in Switzerland wherein famous for its variety of cheese production. It is made out of cow’s milk and has this mild nutty flavor with a taste of sweet milk. With lower sodium, Swiss cheese is good for those with hypertension and people with heart diseases.
It is also high in protein and calcium. What makes a good sandwich and burger are those with added Swiss cheese in it as it perks up these dishes amazingly.
Goat Cheese
From the name itself, this cheese is made out of goat’s milk and is produced in different ways from fresh to aged, and from soft to hard. It differs from cheese made out of cow’s milk since it is hypoallergenic or easily digested by those who are lactose intolerant. It is also packed with a great number of vitamins and minerals and even an ounce of a serving contains vitamin A, calcium, and iron.
It also has healthy fats that are beneficial to those losing weight. As simple as making an omelet or mashed potatoes, goat cheese will add more flavor and texture to the meal.
Parmesan
Parmesan is famous among consumers since it is a hard cheese usually grated on top of common pasta, salads, and soups.
It can also be a stand-alone snack for some as it is considered to be one of the best-tasting cheeses. A sprinkle of it goes a long way because it is fully packed with fruity and nutty flavor together with a gritty texture.
For some who don’t know, it is labeled as the ‘King of Cheese’. It is not just tasty but very healthy as well.
A tablespoon of parmesan only has 20 calories, 0 grams of carbohydrates, and 55 milligrams of sodium which is perfect for those who are diet conscious.
Non-Dairy Healthy Cheese Substitutes
Here are the top 3 Healthy Alternatives For Cheese in 2024
Cashew Cheese
Cashew cheese is a dairy-free cheese that is easy to make. You can put it on your favorite pizzas or salads. Cashews, with apple cider some lemon or lime juice plus apple cider vinegar, and salt are all you need. If you want something creamy but don’t want to eat as much as you would with regular cheese, try this! There’s no milk in this recipe, so it’s great for people who don’t eat dairy or are allergic to it.
Cashew cheese also has good fats from nuts and more protein than cheeses made with animal rennet, like mozzarella made from cow’s milk.
Before you serve it, you can make it your own by adding spices and herbs like cayenne pepper or some basil.
Hummus
Enjoy the flavor or a healthy cheese that has no dairy – try using hummus
Hummus is a smooth and creamy paste that is made using chickpeas as a base.
It comes in a range of flavors like garlic, cilantro, and lime plus hundreds more.
Tahini
Tahini is a good alternative for cheese and can be used in most recipes.
Tahini is a replacement for dairy-based cheese in any meal because it tastes so fresh. It tastes a little sweet and a little salty and has a creamy consistency and hints of sesame. It goes well with everything because it brings out all the flavors in your meal. And since it’s made from pulverized sesame seeds,