Are you a cheese lover who's looking to indulge without sabotaging your diet? Look no further than a single slice of provolone cheese, which clocks in at just 80 calories.
While the calorie count might be modest, there are still plenty of nutrients to be found in a serving of provolone cheese. Each slice contains protein and fat, along with key vitamins and minerals.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of provolone cheese, as well as some delicious recipes that feature this versatile ingredient.
Calories in Provolone Cheese
As mentioned, a single slice of provolone cheese contains 80 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie way to add flavor and richness to a meal or snack. Of course, as with any food, portion size matters. If you're trying to stick to a specific calorie goal, make sure to measure out your servings of provolone cheese accordingly.
Protein Content in Provolone Cheese
Protein is an essential macronutrient that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals. Each 23-gram slice of provolone cheese contains about 5 grams of protein. While this might not be a huge amount, it can still contribute to your daily protein needs. Pair provolone cheese with other protein-rich foods like nuts or roasted turkey for a more substantial snack.
Fat Content in Provolone Cheese
Like many types of cheese, provolone is relatively high in fat. Each slice contains about 7 grams of fat, with 4.5 grams of that being saturated fat. While saturated fat has been linked to negative health outcomes, recent research suggests that it might not be as bad as once thought - especially when it comes from natural sources like cheese. Still, it's important to enjoy provolone cheese in moderation and not overdo it on the fat content.
Carbohydrate Content in Provolone Cheese
One slice of provolone cheese contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates. This makes it a great option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. However, if you're looking for a source of fiber or complex carbohydrates, provolone cheese is not the way to go. Instead, pair it with fiber-rich foods like vegetables to create a more balanced meal or snack.
Calcium Content in Provolone Cheese
Calcium is a mineral that's essential for strong bones and teeth. Luckily, provolone cheese is a great source of this nutrient - each slice contains about 200 milligrams of calcium. This means that enjoying provolone cheese as part of a balanced diet can help support your skeletal health. If you're not a fan of dairy, there are plenty of other calcium-rich foods to choose from, such as leafy greens and fortified plant milks.
Sodium Content in Provolone Cheese
One downside of many types of cheese is that they can be quite high in sodium. Provolone cheese is no exception - each slice contains about 170 milligrams of sodium. If you're trying to reduce your sodium intake, it's a good idea to limit your consumption of provolone cheese and other salty foods. Some lower-sodium, protein-rich snacks include hard-boiled eggs, edamame, and plain Greek yogurt.
Cholesterol Content in Provolone Cheese
Lastly, it's worth noting that provolone cheese is a relatively high-cholesterol food. Each slice contains about 15 milligrams of cholesterol. While cholesterol in food doesn't have as big of an impact on blood cholesterol levels as once thought, it's still a good idea to limit your intake of cholesterol-rich foods - especially if you have an existing heart condition.
Vitamins and Minerals in Provolone Cheese
In addition to calcium, provolone cheese contains a variety of other vitamins and minerals. These include vitamin A, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and zinc. While you shouldn't rely on cheese as your sole source of these nutrients, it can be a helpful addition to a balanced diet.
Provolone Cheese as a Source of Energy
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to fuel up before a workout or between meals, provolone cheese can be a great option. Thanks to its protein and fat content, it can help keep you feeling full and energized. Try pairing a slice of provolone cheese with a piece of fruit or some whole-grain crackers for a balanced snack that will keep you going for hours.
Different Recipes Using Provolone Cheese
While provolone cheese is delicious on its own, it's even better when incorporated into a variety of dishes. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
- Provolone and Tomato Salad: Slice fresh cherry tomatoes and toss with diced provolone, balsamic vinegar, and chopped basil.
- Provolone-Stuffed Chicken Breasts: Cut a pocket into chicken breasts and stuff with sliced provolone and spinach. Bake until cooked through.
- Provolone and Spinach Quesadillas: Layer sliced provolone with baby spinach leaves and sautéed onions between two tortillas. Cook until crispy.
Get creative in the kitchen - there's no wrong way to enjoy the rich, savory flavor of provolone cheese!
"Life is great. Cheese makes it better." - Avery Aames
FAQ about Provolone Cheese
1. What is Provolone Cheese?
Provolone cheese is a semi-hard, Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It has a slightly sweet and tangy taste and is often used in sandwiches, pizzas, and pasta dishes.
2. How many calories are in a slice of Provolone Cheese?
One slice of Provolone Cheese (23 g) typically contains about 80 calories.
3. Is Provolone Cheese healthy?
Provolone Cheese contains protein and other nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. However, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium, which can be harmful in excess amounts. Therefore, moderation is key when consuming Provolone Cheese as part of a healthy diet.
4. How is Provolone Cheese made?
Provolone Cheese is traditionally made by heating cow's milk and then adding rennet to coagulate the milk into curds. After draining and pressing the curds, the cheese is left to mature for several months. During this time, it develops its characteristic flavor and texture.
5. How should Provolone Cheese be stored?
Provolone Cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F or below in a tightly sealed container to prevent it from drying out. For optimal flavor and texture, it should be consumed within 3-4 months of purchase.