What Makes Parmesan the Perfect Cheese for Pasta

Parmesan cheese holds a special place in Italian cuisine, particularly when it comes to pasta dishes.

Known for its rich flavour, granular texture, and versatility, it is considered by many to be the quintessential cheese for enhancing the taste of pasta. Here we look at why.

The Unique Qualities of Parmesan

Parmesan cheese is prized for its complex and robust flavour. Made from cow's milk and aged for a minimum of 12 months, it develops a distinct nutty and slightly salty taste. This ageing process also contributes to its hard, crumbly texture, which allows it to be grated finely or shaved into delicate slivers.

·       One of the key reasons Parmesan is ideal for pasta dishes is its ability to melt beautifully while retaining its flavour.

·       When sprinkled over hot pasta, it creates a creamy, savoury coating that enhances the dish without overpowering it.

·       The cheese’s umami-rich taste adds depth and richness to both simple and complex recipes, making it a versatile addition to a variety of pasta preparations.

Cultural Significance in Italy

Parmesan cheese is a symbol of culinary tradition and pride. Parmigiano-Reggiano is produced in specific regions of Italy, including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Bologna and Mantua. The strict regulations governing its production ensure that each wheel of cheese meets the highest standards of quality and authenticity.

Italians have long revered Parmesan for its flavour and nutritional benefits. Rich in protein, calcium, and essential vitamins, it is a staple in Italian households. Its use in pasta dishes reflects the Italian philosophy of using simple, high-quality ingredients to create extraordinary meals. In Italian restaurants, Parmesan is often freshly grated tableside, highlighting its importance in enhancing the dining experience.

Classic Parmesan-Enhanced Pasta Dishes

·       Spaghetti Carbonara: This Roman classic features a creamy sauce made from eggs, pancetta, and Parmesan cheese. The heat from the pasta gently cooks the eggs and melts the cheese, creating a rich and velvety coating that clings to each strand of spaghetti.

·       Fettuccine Alfredo: Originating from Rome, Fettuccine Alfredo is a simple yet indulgent dish made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the sauce, adding a luxurious texture and a savoury depth that perfectly complements the wide, flat noodles.

·       Pesto Genovese: Hailing from Genoa, this vibrant green sauce is made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan adds a sharp, salty note that balances the herbal freshness of the basil and the richness of the pine nuts.

·       Lasagne alla Bolognese: In this beloved baked pasta dish, layers of pasta sheets are interspersed with rich Bolognese sauce, béchamel, and generous amounts of grated Parmesan. As the lasagne bakes, the Parmesan melts and browns, forming a deliciously crisp and golden top layer that adds both flavour and texture to the dish.

Why You Should Try Parmesan on Pasta

Whether dining at an Italian restaurant or cooking at home, incorporating Parmesan cheese into pasta dishes can elevate the meal to new heights. It enhances flavours without dominating them making it an essential ingredient in many recipes. The next time you enjoy a plate of pasta, consider the role Parmesan plays in creating a balanced and delectable dish.