Paired with queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese
This phrase describes a common pairing for many traditional Mexican dishes, particularly those featuring corn-based tortillas or masa. The dish itself could be anything from tacos and enchiladas to tamales, where the fresh, mild queso fresco or the melty, stringy Oaxaca cheese is added as a topping or filling. This pairing is a hallmark of Mexican cuisine, adding a creamy, salty contrast to savory or spicy flavors.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
The nutritional profile depends heavily on the base dish, but the addition of cheese significantly increases the fat and protein content. A typical serving would be a moderate source of calcium and protein, with a calorie range that can vary widely from 300 to 600+ kcal depending on the preparation.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Calcium | 250 mg |
| Phosphorus | 200 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.8 mcg |
| Selenium | 10 mcg |
| Zinc | 2 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.3 mg |
Per 1 taco or enchilada with cheese (approx. 150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this pairing showcases the importance of dairy in Mexican cuisine, despite historical reliance on plant-based proteins. Nutritionally, the cheese provides a complementary amino acid profile to corn-based dishes, making the meal more complete.
