Frederic Melton
Grated Parmesan cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory main courses to sweet desserts. When serving grated Parmesan cheese to guests, it is recommended to use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-grated options, as it tastes better and is more affordable. Freshly grated Parmesan can be purchased from a deli or the refrigerated section of a grocery store. It is best stored wrapped in paper. Grated Parmesan can be served as a side or topping for dishes such as pasta, chicken, salads, and soups. It can also be used in recipes such as lasagna, garlic Parmesan chicken tenders, and cheesy broccoli gnocchi. Additionally, it can be served with fresh fruit or used to make Parmesan crackers or crisps. The versatility of grated Parmesan cheese makes it a great option for impressing guests and elevating various dishes.
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What You'll Learn
Buy fresh, grate yourself, and store in a jar
Grating your own Parmesan cheese is a great way to ensure your guests get the freshest, most delicious experience. Firstly, you'll need to buy a block of Parmesan. Look for a whole, unopened block, as this will be the freshest and last the longest. You can also buy pre-grated Parmesan, but it is best to avoid the dried variety that comes in cardboard tubes.
Once you have your block of Parmesan, you'll need to grate it. There are a few different methods you can use. If you're grating a small amount, a Microplane is a great option. Simply run the cheese along the surface, and you'll have fine shreds of cheese that are perfect for pasta. For larger quantities, a box grater or food processor will do the trick.
Now it's time to store your grated Parmesan. You can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last about a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Either add it to an airtight container or freezer bag, or for a more convenient option, divide it into 1-cup jars. That way, you can easily take out a jar as needed, and you can serve the cheese straight from the jar, so your guests can sprinkle it on their food.
If you're serving the Parmesan as part of a cheese plate, you might want to leave the block whole and grate it at the table, so your guests can enjoy the full freshness of the cheese.
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Avoid pre-grated, dried, or non-Italian Parmesan
When serving grated Parmesan cheese to your guests, it is important to note that not all Parmesan cheeses are created equal. While it may be convenient to buy pre-grated, dried, or non-Italian Parmesan, there are several reasons to avoid these options.
Firstly, commercially packaged pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains stabilizers and other additives that alter the taste and quality of the cheese. It bears little resemblance to real, aged Parmesan cheese. Instead, opt for store-grated aged Parmesan, which is simply a chunk of aged Parmesan cheese that has been grated and packaged. This variety offers the signature flavour of aged Parmesan and is a more authentic option.
Secondly, dried Parmesan cheese, often sold in cardboard tube containers, tends to have a harder texture due to the aging process. While this makes it easier to grate over dishes, it lacks the distinct, nuanced flavour and creamy texture of fresh Parmesan. Fresh Parmesan has a more intense and rich flavour, with a nutty aroma, adding a luxurious mouthfeel to your dishes. It is also more crumbly, as it has not undergone the hardening that comes with aging.
Thirdly, when it comes to authenticity, it is worth noting that the term "Parmesan" is not an Italian term. True Parmesan cheese, or "Parmigiano", can only be called such if it is produced in the Parma and Reggio area of Italy, with milk from cows raised according to specific standards. While there are excellent Parmesan-style cheeses made in other regions, such as Wisconsin, they cannot be labelled as Parmigiano.
Lastly, fresh Parmesan cheese is typically made from cow's milk, resulting in a higher protein and calcium content. It also contains less fat than other types of cheese. While it may be more expensive and less readily available, fresh Parmesan is worth the investment for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests. Its superior flavour and texture make it the ideal choice for dishes where its qualities can be fully appreciated, such as pasta, pizza, risotto, and other Italian fare.
In summary, when serving grated Parmesan cheese to guests, it is advisable to avoid pre-grated, dried, or non-Italian options. Opt instead for freshly grated, authentic Parmigiano cheese to elevate your dishes and offer your guests a superior culinary experience.
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Use as a topping for pizza, pasta, or soup
Grated Parmesan cheese is a versatile topping that can be used to elevate a variety of dishes, including pizza, pasta, and soup. Here are some specific ways to incorporate it as a topping:
Pizza
When using grated Parmesan as a pizza topping, it is recommended to add it after the pizza is baked. This allows the Parmesan to partially melt and creates a nice, salty, nutty flavour that enhances the taste of the mozzarella. If you add Parmesan before baking, it may burn, especially in a traditional pizza oven. However, some people like to add Parmesan underneath the mozzarella to give the pizza a little extra zing. You can also use a blend of cheeses, such as Romano and Parmesan, or a four-cheese blend that includes Asiago, Fontina, Parmesan, and Provolone.
Pasta
Freshly grated Parmesan is a delicious addition to pasta dishes. You can offer your guests a chunk of Parmesan and a grater so they can add as much as they like to their pasta. Alternatively, you can provide a Microplane grater on the table, allowing guests to grate fresh Parmesan directly over their pasta. If you are making a red pasta sauce, you can add grated Parmesan at the end to enrich and thicken the sauce, but be cautious as it can make the sauce creamier and may stick to the pan. Some people also like to add Parmesan rinds to their pasta sauces, as they add depth of flavour without requiring grating.
Soup
Grated Parmesan can be used as a topping for soup, adding a savoury, salty element. For example, Parmesan crisps can be used instead of stale bread for French onion soup, providing a carb-friendly option.
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Bake into a savoury pie or chicken dish
Grated Parmesan cheese can be used to elevate a variety of savoury dishes, especially when baked into a savoury pie or chicken dish. Here are some ideas for how to incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into your baking:
Chicken Parmesan
A classic way to use grated Parmesan cheese in a chicken dish is to make Chicken Parmesan. This dish typically involves breading chicken breasts with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, frying them until golden brown, and then transferring them to a baking dish. Top each breaded chicken breast with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and provolone cheese. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the top, drizzle with olive oil, and bake in the oven until the cheese is browned and bubbly. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be served with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Another option is to create a savoury Parmesan crust for your chicken. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness, and then coat them with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and herby parsley. Bake the chicken in the oven until cooked through and golden brown. This baked Parmesan crusted chicken is perfect for a weeknight meal and can be served with a dipping sauce such as garlic Parmesan or Sriracha mayo.
Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi
For a vegetarian option, you can bake grated Parmesan cheese into a savoury pie or casserole. Try making a broccoli and Parmesan gnocchi, where the potato pillows of gnocchi are complemented by broccoli and Parmesan, all baked together in the oven. This dish is a comforting and cheesy option that your guests will surely enjoy.
Savoury Pie with Parmesan
If you're feeling adventurous, create a savoury pie with grated Parmesan cheese. Combine whole walnuts, pepper, amaranth seeds, and grated Parmesan to create a savoury and nutty filling. Bake the pie until the filling is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve this unique and tasty pie to your guests for a memorable meal.
When baking with grated Parmesan cheese, feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your taste preferences. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will always provide the best flavour, so try to grate your own if possible. By incorporating these ideas into your baking, you'll be able to create delicious and cheesy savoury dishes that your guests will love.
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Serve as a side with fresh fruit
Grated Parmesan cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be served in a variety of ways and used in numerous recipes. Here are some ideas for serving grated Parmesan cheese as a side with fresh fruit:
Grated Parmesan Cheese with Fresh Fruit
When serving grated Parmesan cheese as a side with fresh fruit, it is essential to consider the type of fruit being served. Here are some suggestions:
- Melon and Prosciutto: Wrap slices of melon, such as cantaloupe or honeydew, with thin strips of prosciutto and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top. The sweetness of the melon pairs well with the saltiness of the prosciutto and the savoury notes of the cheese.
- Apple or Pear Slices: Cut apples or pears into thin slices and arrange them on a platter. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, along with a drizzle of honey and a few chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
- Strawberry and Parmesan Skewers: Thread fresh strawberries and small cubes of Parmesan cheese onto skewers, alternating between the two. This combination may seem unusual, but the sweetness of the strawberries complements the savouriness of the cheese.
- Cheese and Fruit Platter: Create a platter with a variety of fresh fruits, such as grapes, berries, apple slices, and pear slices, and include a small bowl of grated Parmesan cheese as part of the spread. This allows your guests to enjoy the cheese with a variety of fruits and create their own flavour combinations.
Preparation and Presentation Tips:
- Storage: To maintain freshness, store grated Parmesan cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Serving Size: Offer a moderate amount of grated Parmesan cheese on the side, considering it as a complementary flavour enhancer rather than the main focus of the dish.
- Garnish: Add a few fresh herbs such as basil or parsley to the grated Parmesan cheese for added flavour and a pop of colour.
- Texture: Grate the Parmesan cheese finely so that it can be easily sprinkled over the fruit or enjoyed as part of a bite-sized combination.
By presenting grated Parmesan cheese as a side with fresh fruit, you offer your guests a unique and refreshing flavour experience. The savouriness of the cheese complements the sweetness of the fruit, creating a delightful contrast that is sure to impress.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to buy a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself. Pre-grated Parmesan is often of lower quality and may not be authentic. You can serve the freshly grated Parmesan in a 1-cup mason jar, which can be easily stored in the fridge and brought out when needed.
Grated Parmesan can be served as a side with fresh fruit, or used as a topping for soup. You can also make Parmesan "crackers" or "crisps" by toasting the cheese.
Avoid pre-grated Parmesan cheese that comes in cardboard tube containers or plastic wrappers, as these are often of lower quality and may not taste good.
