Low Sodium Cheese Arepa
Delight in the comforting flavors of this Low Sodium Cheese Arepa recipe—a healthier twist on the classic Latin American favorite. Made with just six simple ingredients, including precooked white cornmeal (masarepa), warm water, and grated low-sodium cheese, these arepas are soft, cheesy, and golden-crisp on the outside. The reduced sodium content, achieved by using unsalted butter and low-sodium cheese like Swiss or fresh mozzarella, makes this recipe perfect for those who want to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence. These versatile arepas come together in just 30 minutes and can be served alone or paired with fresh toppings like avocado or tomatoes for a wholesome meal. Quick, easy, and full of irresistible flavor, this recipe is a must-try for fans of heart-healthy Latin cuisine.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups precooked white cornmeal (masarepa)
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 cup low-sodium cheese, grated (such as Swiss or fresh mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for cooking
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the precooked white cornmeal with the warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a smooth dough forms. Allow the dough to rest for about 5 minutes.
Add the grated low-sodium cheese and melted unsalted butter to the bowl. Mix well with your hands until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Divide the dough into 8 equal-sized balls. Flatten each ball into a disc shape about 1/2 inch thick. Ensure the discs are uniform in size for even cooking.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add half of the neutral oil and a small amount of unsalted butter to the skillet.
Carefully place 4 of the arepa discs into the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through.
Transfer the cooked arepas to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining oil and arepas.
Serve the arepas warm, either on their own or with your choice of toppings such as avocado, low-sodium cheese, or fresh tomato slices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1754 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 88.9 g | 114% | |
| Saturated Fat | 40.4 g | 202% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 153 mg | 51% | |
| Sodium | 83 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 193.6 g | 70% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.0 g | 43% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.0 g | ||
| Protein | 47.5 g | 95% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 809 mg | 62% | |
| Iron | 7.1 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 89 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
