Rich, nutty, and unmistakably Italian, parmesan cheese has been a staple in kitchens worldwide for centuries. Referred to as "Parmigiano Reggiano" in Italy, it’s not just a culinary delight but also a testament to Italy’s rich tradition of cheese-making. Whether you're sprinkling it over pasta, adding it to salads, or incorporating it into bold, creative recipes, parmesan remains a must-have in any cheese lover's repertoire.

But how well do you know this versatile cheese? Beyond its classic Italian roots, parmesan can elevate unexpected dishes and pair beautifully with wines, fruits, and other ingredients. This blog will take you on a flavorful journey—from classic Italian dishes to avant-garde culinary creations—all while helping you rediscover the true potential of parmesan cheese.

Classic Parmesan Dishes

When we think of parmesan cheese, our minds often wander to the heart of Italian cuisine. It’s impossible to envision authentic Italian dishes without the presence of this iconic ingredient. Here are some must-try classics where parmesan shines.

Fettuccine Alfredo

Few dishes scream comfort food quite like Fettuccine Alfredo. This creamy, indulgent masterpiece is made with butter, cream, and—of course—parmesan cheese. The cheese's nutty, savory flavor is the backbone of this classic dish, giving it depth and richness.

Parmesan Risotto

Parmesan's ability to melt so effortlessly into dishes makes it the star of Parmesan Risotto. Creamy, luxurious, and packed with umami, this dish balances the richness of cheese with the subtle earthiness of Arborio rice. It’s a staple for anyone who appreciates fine Italian dining.

Eggplant Parmesan

This dish highlights parmesan’s ability to complement bold, tomato-based flavors. Layers of breaded eggplant, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and grated parmesan are baked to perfection, delivering a crispy yet gooey slice of Italian goodness.

Caesar Salad

While salads may not be the first thing you associate with parmesan, a traditional Caesar salad wouldn’t be complete without freshly shaved parmesan. Its sharp, salty touch complements the tanginess of Caesar dressing, taking the dish to new heights.

Minestrone Soup

This hearty, vegetable-packed soup often gets a boost from a parmesan rind simmered in the broth, infusing every spoonful with the cheese's subtle, savory notes.

Each dish is proof of parmesan’s role as a culinary hero. But what if we step beyond tradition? Prepare to discover parmesan like you've never imagined.

Unexpected Uses for Parmesan

While parmesan fits perfectly in the realm of classic Italian food, its versatility knows no bounds. Here’s how you can use parmesan to add surprising twists to your cooking.

Parmesan Crisps

Parmesan crisps might just be your new favorite snack (or garnish). Shred some parmesan onto a baking sheet, shape it into small mounds, and bake until golden brown. Voila! You have crispy, flavor-packed snacks to serve with dips or soups.

Parmesan in Desserts

Cheese in desserts? Parmesan delivers a subtle saltiness that cuts through sweetness, creating a perfect balance. Sweet parmesan cookies, made with a blend of grated parmesan, sugar, and butter, are a delightful way to surprise guests. Pair them with honey for an irresistible treat.

Parmesan Herb Crust for Meats

Give your proteins a savory upgrade by coating them in a parmesan herb crust. For instance, cover chicken or pork with a mix of grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs, then bake for a crispy, flavorful finish.

Parmesan Roasted Vegetables

Toss vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and top with grated parmesan before roasting. The cheese creates a golden, umami-rich crust that’s hard to resist.

Parmesan Ice Cream

Believe it or not, parmesan can work wonders in ice cream. Its salty and nutty undertones add complexity to this creamy dessert. Pairing parmesan ice cream with balsamic glaze balances sweet and savory in every bite.

Parmesan can even serve as a bold addition to non-traditional foods, proving its ability to enhance flavors in unexpected ways.

Pairing Parmesan with Wines and Ingredients

If you're looking to elevate your parmesan experience further, pairing it with the right wines and ingredients can bring out its best attributes. Here are a few suggestions:

Wine Pairings

• Crisp White Wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are excellent choices. Their acidity cuts through parmesan's richness, creating a beautifully balanced taste.

• Full-bodied Reds like Chianti complement parmesan’s robust flavor, especially when paired with tomato-based dishes.

• Sparkling Wines bring a refreshing contrast to parmesan's salty umami.

Ingredient Pairings

• Fruits like figs and pears provide a sweet contrast, amplifying parmesan’s nutty notes.

• Nuts, such as walnuts and almonds, enhance the earthy flavors of aged parmesan.

• Balsamic Glaze adds a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with parmesan in appetizers or salads.

• Cured Meats like prosciutto turn cheese platters into gourmet delights when paired with wedges of aged parmesan.

Understanding these pairings allows you to fully appreciate parmesan’s complexity while elevating your culinary creations.

Recipes to Try at Home

Now that we’ve explored classic dishes and bold uses of parmesan, why not bring these ideas to life in your kitchen? Here are two detailed recipes to get started.

Recipe 1: Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Lemon Herb Butter

• Ingredients:

• 2 boneless chicken breasts

• 1 cup grated parmesan

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Mix parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, and lemon zest in a shallow dish.

3. Coat chicken breasts with olive oil, then press them into the parmesan mixture until fully coated.

4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

5. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan, add lemon juice, and drizzle over the chicken before serving.

Recipe 2: Parmesan & Black Pepper Arancini

• Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked risotto

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• Oil for frying

• Instructions:

1. Mix risotto, parmesan, and black pepper.

2. Shape into small balls, dip into beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.

3. Heat oil in a pan and fry the arancini until golden brown.

4. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

These recipes showcase just how adaptable parmesan is, whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or hosting a gourmet soirée.

Rediscovering Parmesan’s Potential

Parmesan cheese is far more than a pasta topping—it’s a flavor-packed ingredient with endless possibilities. Whether you're cooking a creamy risotto, snacking on crisp parmesan chips, or pairing it with a fine wine, this Italian treasure has a place in every kitchen.

At Marky’s, we’re all about helping you explore gourmet flavors like parmesan. Browse our curated selection of authentic cheeses to elevate your cooking experience. Taste the difference at Marky’s and start your culinary adventure today!