Forktionary
Dairy|Cheese | Vegetarian Diet (if microbial rennet)

Queso Fresco

Bos taurus (cow's milk) or Capra aegagrus hircus (goat's milk) Allergens: Milk|Dairy
Queso Fresco

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (Animal product)
  • Primary Cuisine Mexican|Latin American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's milk (or goat/sheep)

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A fresh, unripened, crumbly white cheese, traditionally made from cow's milk (or a blend), with a mild, salty, and slightly tangy flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Salty, Slightly tangy, Milky
TextureCrumbly, Soft, Moist, Non-melting (softens)
AromaFresh, Milky, Clean
AcidityLow-Med

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (1 oz)
Calories280 kcal
Total Fat22 g
Saturated Fat14 g
Trans Fat0.8 g
Cholesterol70 mg
Protein21 g
Total Carbohydrate2 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars2 g
Calcium700 mg
Iron0.5 mg
Potassium100 mg

Chef’s Secret

For the best texture in warm dishes, crumble Queso Fresco over food just before serving, as it softens rather than truly melting.

Substitutions

Best Match

Feta Cheese

1:1

Provides similar crumbly texture and salty, tangy flavor, though often stronger.

Ricotta Salata

1:1

A firmer, drier ricotta that crumbles well, offering a mild, salty taste.

Indian Paneer

1:1

Non-melting, mild fresh cheese with a firm texture; can be crumbled or cubed.

Cotija Cheese (if available)

1:1

A dry, salty, crumbly Mexican cheese, often used grated; stronger flavor than queso fresco.

Buying Guide

Look for expiration date. Store tightly wrapped in the refrigerator; best consumed fresh.

Flavor Pairings

Tacos Enchiladas Salads Soups Beans Corn Avocado Chili.

Recipes Using Queso Fresco

2Bleu's Spinach And Artichoke Dip With Bacon image 119
Low Fat Time To Make Low Saturated Fat Spinach

2Bleu's Spinach And Artichoke Dip With Bacon

This irresistible 2Bleu S Spinach and Artichoke Dip with crispy bacon is the ultimate party appetizer! Served in a toasted bread bowl for a stunning presentation (simply slice the bowl for extra servings!), it's also delicious with crostini, tortillas, or your favorite chips. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dip is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
Arroz A La Mexicana Traditional Mexican Rice image 127
Low Fat Rice Low Calorie Low In Something

Arroz A La Mexicana Traditional Mexican Rice

Authentic Arroz a la Mexicana recipe! This vibrant Mexican rice dish is bursting with flavor, featuring perfectly cooked rice with sautéed onions, garlic, and rich tomato. Learn how to make this classic side dish, perfect for tacos, enchiladas, or as a standalone meal. Get ready for a taste of Mexico!

See Complete Recipe
Authentic Enchiladas Verde image
Meat Chicken Main Ingredient Cuisine

Authentic Enchiladas Verde

Unleash your inner chef with this authentic Enchiladas Verde recipe, passed down through generations of the Valadez family! This vibrant dish features tender shredded chicken simmered in a rich, smoky tomatillo salsa verde. Learn the secrets to perfectly fried tortillas and a mouthwatering sauce that will leave you craving more. Get ready for a fiesta of flavor!

See Complete Recipe