The Perfect Cheese Pairings For Parsnips

Parsnips are a versatile root vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads, curries to cakes. They have a sweet, nutty flavour and go well with a range of cheeses, including gorgonzola, parmesan, and gruyère. Parsnips can be baked, boiled, roasted, fried, or mashed, and are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and fibre. They are a great alternative to potatoes and other root vegetables, and can be used to make delicious, crispy chips.

Parsnips and gorgonzola

One recipe for parsnips and gorgonzola involves cooking the parsnips in salted water until tender, then lightly browning them in a skillet. The parsnips are then placed in a baking dish, topped with gorgonzola, and baked until the cheese is lightly browned. This dish can be served as a main course or appetizer.

Another recipe idea is a parsnip and gorgonzola soup. This soup is made by simmering parsnips in vegetable stock until soft, then blending them with cream and gorgonzola. The soup is then seasoned with black pepper and garnished with additional cheese.

For a more unique option, consider a parsnip and pear tart with gorgonzola and thyme. This recipe combines parsnip and pear wedges, gorgonzola, and thyme in a buttery tart. The gorgonzola melts smoothly into the parsnip and pear, creating a sweet and savoury dish.

Overall, parsnips and gorgonzola is a delicious pairing that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Parsnips and parmesan

If you're looking to add a unique twist to your winter dinners, parsnips are a great option. They are underrated but pair well with many dishes. Roasted with meat or puréed in soup, this vegetable complements any comfort meal during the colder months.

Recipe Ideas

Ingredients:

• 1½ pounds parsnips, halved
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½-⅔ cups parmesan cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Method:

• Preheat your oven to 425°.
• Wash, trim the ends, and cut the parsnips in half lengthwise. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Place the parsnips cut-side down on the paper, leaving some space between them.
• Drizzle the parsnips with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Roast for 30-40 minutes on one side, then flip and roast for another 20-30 minutes until tender.
• Remove from the oven and season with additional salt and pepper. Top evenly with parmesan cheese.
• Roast for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly crispy.
• Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Storage and Tips:

• This dish can be stored in the fridge for about 5 days and reheated in the microwave. Freezing is not recommended after cooking with cheese.
• Parsnips can be left unpeeled if their skins are thin and clean. Simply brush wash them and trim the ends.
• When cutting, make sure all the pieces are of similar size to ensure even cooking.
• Grating your own parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavour.
• For extra seasoning, try adding herbs like rosemary and thyme, which pair well with parmesan and the nutty flavour of parsnips.

Parsnips and emmenthal or gruyère

Emmenthal or Gruyère are excellent cheeses to pair with parsnips. Both are hard, nutty Swiss cheeses with a slightly sweet flavour. They are similar, but Gruyère is more complex and intense in flavour, with a longer finish.

Cheese-Topped Baked Parsnips

One way to combine parsnips and Emmenthal or Gruyère is to layer sliced parsnips in a baking dish with cream and grated cheese. This is a simple dish that can be made ahead of time and reheated. It is a great way to showcase the natural sweetness of parsnips, which is enhanced by the cheese.

Parsnip Gratin

For a more indulgent dish, try a parsnip gratin. Similar to scalloped potatoes, this dish involves layering parsnips with cream and cheese, then baking until golden and crispy. The nutty flavour of Emmenthal or Gruyère will complement the parsnips, and the dish can be served as a side or main course.

Parsnip and Cheese Soup

For a heartier option, you could make a parsnip and cheese soup. Simply roast or boil the parsnips, then blend them with butter and cheese to create a creamy, sweet soup. This can be served with crusty bread for a comforting meal.

Parsnip and Cheese Puree

Alternatively, try making a parsnip and cheese puree. Boil or roast the parsnips until soft, then blend them with butter and Emmenthal or Gruyère. This can be served as a side dish or used as a base for other recipes, such as fish or meat.

Parsnip, Cheese and Carrot Side Dish

Finally, for a colourful and nutritious side dish, try combining parsnips and Emmenthal or Gruyère with carrots. The carrots will add a pop of colour and a slight variation in texture, while the cheese will bring the dish together. This can be served as a simple side or as part of a larger meal.

Parsnips and cheddar

Baked Cheddar Parsnips

This dish is a twist on the classic scalloped potatoes or potato gratin. Simply slice parsnips thinly using a mandoline, toss them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the parsnip slices in a baking dish, layering them with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake in the oven until the parsnips are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This dish is sure to impress with its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Cheddar Parsnip Mash

For a comforting side dish, try making a mash with parsnips and cheddar. Boil or steam the parsnips until tender, then mash them with butter, milk or cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sweetness of the parsnips pairs beautifully with the sharp cheddar, creating a flavourful and creamy mash.

Roasted Cheddar Parsnips

Roasting parsnips brings out their natural sweetness and adds a nice crispy texture. Cut the parsnips into uniform-sized pieces and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Once roasted, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and return to the oven just until the cheese melts. These roasted parsnips with cheddar make a great side dish for roasted meats or fish.

Parsnip and Cheddar Soup

For a hearty and comforting soup, try blending parsnips with cheddar cheese. Simply sauté diced parsnips in butter or olive oil, then add chicken or vegetable stock and simmer until the parsnips are tender. Transfer the mixture to a blender, add shredded cheddar cheese, and blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra cheesy touch, top the soup with additional shredded cheddar before serving.

Parsnip, Cheddar and Apple Salad

For a unique and flavourful salad, try combining parsnips, cheddar cheese, and apples. Peel and grate the parsnips, then toss them with diced apples and shredded cheddar. You can also add some chopped walnuts and a dressing of your choice. This salad makes a great side dish or light lunch, offering a nice balance of sweet and savoury flavours.

Parsnip and Cheddar Fritters

These fritters are a fun way to enjoy parsnips and cheddar together. Grate the parsnips and mix them with shredded cheddar, flour, egg, and seasoning. Form the mixture into small patties and fry them in a pan with butter or oil until golden brown. These fritters can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a fun snack.

Parsnips and creamy cheeses

Scalloped Parsnips or Gratin

Create a creamy, cheesy dish by layering thinly sliced parsnips with creamy cheeses such as Gruyère or Emmenthal. Bake it until the cheese is melted and bubbly, forming a delicious crust. This dish is perfect as a side or even as a main course.

Parsnip and Cheese Puree

For a smooth and creamy treat, boil or roast parsnips until tender, then blend them with butter and a creamy cheese like mascarpone. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This puree can be served as a side dish or used as a base for other recipes.

Parsnip and Cheese Soup

Combine the sweetness of parsnips with creamy cheeses in a hearty soup. Simply cook parsnips with other root vegetables, blend them into a creamy soup, and stir in your favourite creamy cheese. Season with your choice of herbs and spices.

Baked Parsnip and Cheese Fries

Cut parsnips into thin fries, toss them in olive oil, and bake until crispy. Then, melt your favourite creamy cheese and dip those fries in! This makes for a delicious and indulgent snack or side dish.

Parsnip and Cheese Pasta

Try a twist on the classic carbonara by adding parsnips to the mix. Sauté diced parsnips in garlic butter, then toss them with pasta, bacon or crispy prosciutto, and a generous amount of creamy cheese like Parmesan or Gruyère. This creates a rich and indulgent dish perfect for a comforting meal.

Frequently asked questions