Group · Dairy
Port-Salut
Port-Salut is a French uncooked pressed cheese, recognisable by its orange rind and its soft, melting texture. Originally created by Trappist monks, it has a mild, slightly milky flavour that appeals to a wide range of palates, from children to fans of subtle cheeses. Beyond its rounded taste, Port-Salut provides a good amount of protein (nearly 23.78 g per 100 g) and calcium, two typical strengths of matured dairy products. Like all pressed cheeses, it remains fairly high in fat and calories, so it is best enjoyed in measured amounts as part of a balanced, varied diet.
Macronutrient breakdown
Nutrition table per 100 g
| Calories | 352 kcal |
| Kilojoules | 1473 kJ |
| Protein | 23,8 g |
| Carbohydrate | 0,6 g |
| Fat | 28,2 g |
Tips
Port-Salut provides around 352 kcal per 100 g, with 28.2 g of fat and 0.57 g of carbohydrate: it is a tasty cheese but a calorie-dense one. To enjoy its nutrition facts without overdoing it, a 30 g portion (about one thin slice) is plenty for a meal or a snack.
When it comes to serving, Port-Salut has many uses. It can be eaten plain on a slice of country bread, melted in a croque-monsieur, or cubed in a mixed salad. Its soft texture makes it easy to slice and add to sandwiches. Keep it in the fridge, wrapped in its original paper or cling film, and take it out a few minutes before serving so that it releases all its aromas.
- Tasty pairings: grapes, pear, walnuts, crunchy raw vegetables.
- Cooking: it melts well, ideal for light gratins and hot open sandwiches.
- Best time: at the end of a meal or as a snack, without exceeding a sensible portion.
Rich in good-quality protein and a source of calcium, Port-Salut can appeal to active people looking for protein at snack time or during recovery. Combined with wholemeal bread and a piece of fruit, it makes a filling snack. To vary your sources, you can also explore our protein snack ideas or try drier cheeses such as Parmesan, which is very high in protein. Bear in mind, however, that its fat content makes it less suitable just before intense exercise, when more digestible carbohydrates are preferable.
For weight control, moderation remains key: its glycaemic index is almost nil, but its richness in fat quickly adds up in the day’s total energy. If you are looking for a lighter option, go for 0% fat fromage blanc or a low-fat plain yoghurt, which provide protein with fewer calories.
Port-Salut belongs to the large family of dairy products, to be included sensibly in a varied diet. To compare its calories with other foods, see our calorie table and put together balanced meals to suit your goals.