Randy Chandler
There are many types of cheese that go well with pesto, including mozzarella, ricotta, pecorino, parmesan, gruyere, white cheddar, gouda, and provolone. Mild to medium-flavoured cheeses are best because pesto has a very strong flavour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Gruyere, white cheddar, parmesan, gouda, provolone, pecorino romano, mozzarella, ricotta, mild soft cheeses, young chèvres, three-milk La Tur, goat cheese, Malvarosa |
| Flavour | Mild to medium |
| Texture | Hard |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Mozzarella
However, one source suggests that mozzarella is not a good choice for pesto, as it is not a hard cheese.
Cheese Sauce: Melty Magic for Your Meals
You may want to see also
Gruyere
When pairing Gruyere with pesto, it is important to consider the other ingredients in the dish. Gruyere goes well with ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, bacon and other meats. It can also be melted and used as a topping for dishes such as pasta or potatoes.
When purchasing Gruyere, it is important to look for a cheese that is firm, but not too hard. The cheese should have a slightly moist texture and a creamy, pale yellow colour. It is best to avoid Gruyere that has a strong ammonia-like smell, as this indicates that the cheese is past its prime.
The Favorite Cheeses of Mexico: A Cultural Overview
You may want to see also
White cheddar
When making a pesto grilled cheese sandwich with white cheddar, it is important to consider the other ingredients. Sun-dried tomatoes and crispy bacon are often added to pesto grilled cheese sandwiches, as they complement the cheese and pesto beautifully and add another layer of texture.
Other cheeses that pair well with pesto include ricotta, parmesan, gouda, provolone, and gruyere. These cheeses are all mild to medium-flavoured and will complement the pesto without being overpowering.
Mexican Restaurant Tacos: What's the Cheese?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Parmesan
When choosing a Parmesan to pair with pesto, look for a hard variety. This will ensure that it grates well and has a strong flavour. You can also try adding other hard cheeses to your pesto, such as Pecorino Romano, to add extra flavour.
If you are making a grilled cheese sandwich, you may want to try a different cheese with your pesto. Mozzarella is a classic pairing, and its subtle flavour allows the pesto to shine. Fresh mozzarella is best, but shredded mozzarella will also work. Just make sure you pat it dry first to avoid adding moisture to your sandwich.
For a more unusual pairing, try a soft, mild cheese with pesto. Ricotta is a classic companion, with a whipped, milky lightness that makes a dreamy pillow for the spread. Cow's milk cheeses with a tangy backbone, such as Boxcarr Handmade Cheese Rosie's Robiola, will also hold up against the rich, garlicky flavour of pesto.
The Cheesy Truth Behind Fettuccine Alfredo
You may want to see also
Gouda
When choosing Gouda to pair with pesto, look for a young or aged Gouda. Young Gouda has a milder flavour and a softer texture, while aged Gouda has a more intense flavour and a harder texture. Both types will complement the pesto, but the young Gouda will allow the pesto's flavour to shine through more prominently.
When storing Gouda, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or cheese paper and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last for several weeks if properly stored. Gouda is a delicious and versatile cheese that pairs beautifully with pesto. Its mild flavour and creamy texture make it an ideal choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, paninis, or pizzas. Whether you choose a young or aged Gouda, its nutty, sweet, and fruity notes will complement the pesto's strong flavour.
Cheese and Sushi: An Unlikely Pairing?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Mozzarella, ricotta, pecorino, parmesan, gruyere, white cheddar, gouda, and provolone are all good choices.
Mild to medium-flavoured cheeses are best because pesto has a very strong flavour.
Mozzarella is a soft, subtle-flavoured cheese.
Ricotta is a whipped, milky, fresh curd cheese.
Pecorino is a very hard cheese.
