Cotija Cheese
A crumbly Mexican cheese with a bold, salty flavor
What is Cotija Cheese?
Cotija cheese is a traditional Mexican cheese made from cow's milk. Named after the town of Cotija in Michoacán, Mexico, it is typically aged for 100 days or more, giving it a hard, crumbly texture. It comes in two varieties: 'fresh' (softer and less aged) and 'aged' (firmer, resembling parmesan).
Cotija has a bold, savory, and salty flavor that becomes sharper with aging. It's typically used as a topping for tacos, elote (Mexican street corn), salads, or soups due to its ability to enhance dishes without melting. The texture is dry and grainy, making it perfect for crumbling.
Nutritionally, cotija cheese is rich in calcium and protein but also contains a significant amount of sodium due to the aging process. Its fat content is moderate, mostly consisting of saturated fats. It provides essential vitamins like Vitamin B2 and B12 for energy metabolism and brain health.
Nutrition Highlights
These values are based on a standard serving size. Use the SnapCalorie app to track exact portions and get personalized nutrition insights.
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Health Benefits of Cotija Cheese
Strengthens Bones
Cotija cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth. A single serving provides 15% of daily calcium needs.
- Rich in Calcium
- Rich in Phosphorus
Supports Muscle Growth
With 7g of protein per serving, cotija cheese helps repair and build muscles, making it an excellent option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Rich in Protein
Boosts Energy
Cotija cheese contains Vitamin B12, which supports red blood cell formation and energy metabolism, making it a beneficial addition to a balanced diet.
- Rich in Vitamin B12
- Rich in Riboflavin
Diet Compatibility
Is Cotija Cheese suitable for your diet? Here's what you need to know:
Compare Cotija Cheese to Similar Foods
See how Cotija Cheese stacks up against other popular foods:
🍽️ How to Enjoy Cotija Cheese
Breakfast
Sprinkle over scrambled eggs or breakfast tacos
Tip: Combine with fresh salsa for extra flavor
Lunch
Add to salads or sprinkle on top of soups
Tip: Pairs well with avocado and lime
Dinner
Top enchiladas or pasta dishes with crumbled cotija
Tip: Use sparingly to balance saltiness
Snack
Sprinkle on elote (Mexican street corn)
Tip: Mix cotija with chili powder for extra zing
✅ The Bottom Line
Cotija cheese is a flavorful addition to meals, providing calcium and protein to support bone and muscle health. Its bold, salty taste makes it a versatile topping for a variety of dishes.
Use cotija in moderation due to its high sodium content. Sprinkle it on dishes to add richness and depth, particularly in Mexican and Latin cuisines. Ideal for enhancing tacos, salads, elotes, and soups.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- USDA FoodData Central - Comprehensive nutrient composition data
- FDA Nutrition Facts Label - Daily value percentages and guidelines
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements - Nutrient recommendations and health information
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans - Evidence-based nutritional guidance
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
