When enjoying queso, a cheese-based dip popular in Mexican cuisine, you can pair it with several healthy options to create a balanced and nutritious meal. To enjoy Queso healthily, you must carefully determine what you will eat with it. This article will reveal to you the healthy things to eat with Queso.
What is Queso?
Queso is a Spanish word that translates to “cheese” in English. However, when referring to Mexican or Tex-Mex cuisine, queso typically refers to a melted cheese-based dip or sauce. It is commonly enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or condiment.
Queso is typically made by melting cheese, often a combination of melting cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso blanco, along with other ingredients like milk, cream, or salsa. Additional seasonings and spices such as chili powder, cumin, garlic, or jalapeños may be added to enhance the flavor.
The texture of queso can vary, ranging from creamy and smooth to slightly chunky, depending on the recipe and desired consistency. It is typically served warm or hot and is often enjoyed with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables for dipping.
Furthermore, it is commonly served as part of nachos, enchiladas, tacos, or a standalone dip. It is known for its rich and cheesy flavor, often with a hint of spiciness, and is loved for its comforting and indulgent qualities.
17 Healthy Things To Eat With Queso
Here are the healthy things to eat with Queso:
1. Raw vegetables
Serve a platter of colorful raw vegetables such as carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, celery sticks, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes alongside queso. Vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber while adding a refreshing crunch to complement the creamy queso.
2. Whole grain tortilla chips
Opt for whole grain or baked tortilla chips instead of regular fried ones. Whole grain chips offer more fiber and nutrients while providing a satisfying crunch. Look for brands that use minimal-added oils and salt.
3. Sliced fruit
Add a touch of sweetness to your queso platter by including sliced fruits like apple wedges, pear slices, or grapes. Combining the creamy queso with the natural sweetness and juiciness of fruits can create a delightful contrast.
4. Guacamole
Guacamole, made from mashed avocados, can complement queso perfectly. Avocados are a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Make homemade guacamole using fresh avocados, lime juice, diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for a flavorful and nutritious addition.
5. Grilled chicken or shrimp
Consider grilling lean proteins like chicken breast or shrimp to serve alongside queso for a more substantial option. These protein sources provide satiety and nutrients while balancing the richness of the cheese dip.
6. Black beans or refried beans
Adding black or refried beans can provide plant-based protein, fiber, and minerals. These beans pair well with queso, offering a savory and satisfying combination.
7. Baked tortilla strips
Instead of fried tortilla chips, make your own baked tortilla strips by cutting corn tortillas into thin strips, spraying them with cooking spray, and baking them until crispy. They offer a lighter and healthier alternative for dipping into queso.
8. Cauliflower florets
Cauliflower is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be raw or lightly steamed. Dip cauliflower florets into the queso for a tasty and low-calorie option.
9. Sliced apples
The natural sweetness of sliced apples provides a delightful contrast to the savory queso. Apples are also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
10. Quinoa or brown rice crackers
Look for crackers made with whole grains like quinoa or brown rice. These crackers provide a crunchy base for dipping into queso and offer more fiber and nutrients than refined flour crackers.
11. Sliced bell peppers
Colorful and crunchy bell pepper slices are a nutritious choice. They are low in calories, high in vitamin C, and add a refreshing flavor to complement the creamy queso. You can dip bell pepper into the creamy queso for a creamy and flavored taste.
12. Cherry tomatoes
These bite-sized tomatoes are packed with antioxidants and vitamins. They provide a burst of freshness and juiciness that pairs well with queso.
13. Steamed broccoli florets
Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that offers fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Steam some broccoli florets until tender-crisp and dip them into the queso for a satisfying and nutritious combination.
14. Jicama sticks
Jicama is a root vegetable with a crisp texture and mildly sweet flavor. Cut it into sticks or thin slices for a refreshing, low-calorie option to dip into the queso.
15. Whole grain pita bread
Instead of traditional tortilla chips, choose whole-grain pita bread cut into triangles. Whole grains provide more fiber and nutrients, making them a healthier choice for dipping into queso.
16. Grilled zucchini
Slice zucchini into thin strips and grill them until tender. The smoky flavor of grilled zucchini pairs well with the creamy queso, and it adds a dose of vitamins and minerals to your snack.
17. Sliced avocadoes
Avocado is a nutrient-dense fruit that is high in healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium. These nutrients can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health. What’s more? The creamy texture of avocado pairs well with the rich and cheesy flavor of queso, making it a delicious
Conclusion
Remember to consume queso and its accompaniments in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes. While queso can be delicious, it is typically high in saturated fat and sodium. Balancing it with nutrient-rich options can help create a better-rounded and healthier eating experience.
