Guava and Cheese Pastelito
Guava and Cheese Pastelito is a sweet and savory fried pastry originating from Latin America, particularly popular in Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. It consists of flaky, layered dough (puff pastry) filled with a sweet guava paste and a slice of mild, creamy cheese, often queso fresco or cream cheese, then deep-fried until golden and crispy.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This treat is high in carbohydrates and fat due to the pastry and frying process, with a moderate amount of protein from the cheese. A single pastelito provides a quick energy boost and some calcium, but is best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional indulgence.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 15 g |
| Sodium | 280 mg |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg |
| Calcium | 95 mg |
| Potassium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 80 mg |
Per 1 pastelito (approx. 85 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The combination of sweet guava and salty cheese is a classic flavor pairing in Caribbean cuisine, reflecting a blend of tropical fruit traditions and Spanish colonial dairy influences. Nutritionally, guava itself is a vitamin C powerhouse, though the frying process diminishes its fresh nutritional benefits.
