Randy Chandler
If you're on a low-sodium diet, you don't have to give up cheese entirely. There are several cheeses that are naturally lower in sodium, which you can enjoy in moderation. These include Swiss cheese, which is aged and contains as little as 60 mg of sodium per ounce. Other low-sodium options include fresh mozzarella, ricotta, mascarpone, cottage cheese, feta, and goat cheese. Cream cheese is also a good option, as it's fresh and doesn't require as much salt for preservation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Swiss Cheese | 60 mg of sodium per ounce |
| Goat Cheese | Low in lactose and contains different proteins |
| Cream Cheese | 2 tablespoons contain less sodium than other varieties |
| Mozzarella | 85 mg of sodium per ounce |
| Ricotta | 136 mg of sodium per half-cup |
| Mascarpone | 15 mg of sodium per tablespoon |
| Cottage Cheese | 29 mg of sodium per cup (no-salt-added) |
| Cantenaar | Half the salt of regular aged gouda |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Mozzarella is a good option
Mozzarella is lower in sodium and calories than most other cheeses. A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of full-fat mozzarella contains 85 mg of sodium, making it one of the best choices for those watching their sodium intake.
Mozzarella is also a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, all of which are essential nutrients for optimal health. It also contains bacteria that act as probiotics, including strains of Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus fermentum, which may improve gut health, promote immunity, and decrease inflammation.
Mozzarella's versatility in both sweet and savoury dishes, from breakfast to dinner, makes it a great option for those on a low-sodium diet. It can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, such as a Caprese salad with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar, or on top of a fresh veggie salad.
Cheese Drake: The Ultimate Low-ELO Strategy?
You may want to see also
Swiss cheese is lower in sodium
Swiss cheese is a semi-hard cheese, typically made from cow's milk, with a mild, nutty taste. Its signature holes are formed by bacteria that release gases during fermentation. Swiss cheese is lower in sodium than most other cheeses, making it a good option for people who need to monitor their salt intake, including those with high blood pressure. Swiss cheese contains only 53 mg of sodium per ounce, which is significantly lower than many other types of cheese.
Swiss cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. It can be used in sandwiches, on top of toast, or as an ingredient in lasagna. Swiss cheese is also a key component of Mushroom-Swiss Turkey Burgers, a delicious dish for those on a reduced-sodium diet. Swiss-style cheeses, such as Emmentaler and Gruyere, also require less salt in their recipes, making them a good alternative for those looking for low-sodium options.
When it comes to choosing cheeses for a low-sodium diet, it's important to consider the age of the cheese. Fresh cheeses tend to have lower sodium levels, as older cheeses often use salt as a preservative. Cottage cheese, mozzarella, and ricotta are widely available options that are typically lower in sodium. Mozzarella, in particular, is a soft white cheese with a high moisture content and is lower in sodium than most other cheeses, with only 85 mg of sodium per ounce.
In addition to Swiss cheese, there are other varieties that are lower in sodium. Cantenaar, a type of aged gouda, has about half the salt and fat of regular aged gouda, although it is still advisable to check the nutritional labels. Mascarpone is another cheese that is relatively low in sodium, with only 15 mg of sodium per tablespoon. Ricotta is also a good option, with 136 mg of sodium per half-cup, allowing you to enjoy its versatility without overloading your body with salt.
Cheeses to Choose: Healthy Options for Your Plate
You may want to see also
Ricotta doesn't need salt
When it comes to a low-sodium diet, cheese can be a tricky food to navigate. While salt is a necessary ingredient in cheese to prevent the growth of harmful pathogens, some cheeses are lower in sodium than others. Ricotta, for example, is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed in both sweet and savoury dishes. Interestingly, ricotta can be made without salt, as some recipes call for only milk and lemon juice or vinegar. The addition of salt is not always necessary, and it can be added after the cheese is made if desired.
Ricotta is created by heating milk and adding an acidic ingredient like lemon juice or vinegar to separate the curds (ricotta) from the whey. This process does not require salt, and the cheese will still form without it. However, salt is often added to enhance the flavour and preserve the cheese. When making ricotta at home, one can choose to omit the salt or adjust the amount to their taste preferences.
In terms of store-bought ricotta, some brands may have added salt, but it is generally not a predominant ingredient. The sodium content in ricotta cheese is relatively low compared to other cheeses. For instance, a half-cup of ricotta contains only 136 mg of sodium, which is significantly less than many other cheese options. This makes ricotta a good choice for those watching their sodium intake.
Additionally, ricotta is a fresh cheese, and older cheeses tend to have higher sodium levels due to the need for salt as a preservative. Fresh cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, and cottage cheese are recommended for low-sodium diets as they have lower salt contents. Swiss cheese is another good option, as it requires less salt in its recipe and is often suggested for those monitoring their salt intake.
In conclusion, ricotta is a delicious and versatile cheese that can be made without salt and has a lower sodium content than many other cheeses. It is a great option for those on a low-sodium diet, especially when combined with other low-sodium ingredients. When making ricotta at home, one has the flexibility to control the amount of salt added, further reducing the sodium content if desired.
Cheese: Room Temperature for Best Flavor
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Low-fat cottage cheese
If you're on a low-sodium diet, you may be wondering if you need to give up cheese. Fortunately, some cheeses are lower in sodium than others, and you may be able to include them in moderation. One option is low-fat cottage cheese, which typically contains about 29 mg of sodium per cup, but this can vary by brand.
When shopping for low-fat cottage cheese, look for varieties that say "no sodium added" or "no salt added" on the label. These options will have the lowest sodium content. Some brands you may want to try include Good Culture, whose low-fat cottage cheese has tender curds and a tangy flavour, and Smith Brothers Farms, which offers a 1.5% low-fat cottage cheese.
It's important to note that regular cottage cheese usually contains a lot of sodium, so it's crucial to opt for the low-fat, no-sodium-added versions. You can also check the Nutrition Facts label on different brands to compare sodium content and make an informed choice.
In addition to low-fat cottage cheese, there are other types of cheese that are suitable for a low-sodium diet. These include Swiss cheese, mozzarella, ricotta, and mascarpone. When choosing cheese, be mindful of your overall diet and remember to enjoy these options in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Golden Cheese Cookies: Toppings to Elevate the Taste
You may want to see also
Goat's cheese is scrumptious
If you're on a low-sodium diet, you may be wondering which cheeses you can still enjoy. While it is true that some cheeses are packed with salt, there are a few varieties that can fit into a low-sodium diet. These include Swiss cheese, ricotta, cottage cheese, and mozzarella.
Goat's cheese has a lower lactose content than cheeses made from cow's milk, making it easier for some people to digest. It can be purchased with a "Use By" date, and when unopened, it will stay fresh for four to five weeks. Once opened, it should be consumed within two weeks.
There are a few recipes that feature goat's cheese, including a crostini appetizer, deviled eggs with mango and pecans, and an omelette with vegetables. Goat's cheese is also a key ingredient in a comforting Italian dish with shrimp and spinach.
So, if you're looking for a scrumptious cheese to enjoy on a low-sodium diet, goat's cheese is an excellent option. With its unique flavour and versatility, it's sure to be a delicious addition to your meals.
Brie Cheese: Serving Tips for the Perfect Platter
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Some of the best cheeses for a low-sodium diet include Swiss cheese, mozzarella, ricotta, mascarpone, and cottage cheese.
If you've been advised to limit your sodium intake, you can still enjoy cheese in moderation. You can also try combining your favourite cheese with a lower-sodium option to reduce the sodium count.
Yes, feta, goat cheese, and cream cheese are all low-sodium options.
