6 Parmigiano Reggiano recipes to try
We bet you’ve added a heap of grated Parmigiano Reggiano to pasta, pizza, maybe even fries, but how much do you know about this classic Italian cheese? From its origins in Italy over 1 000 years ago to how to enjoy it today, here are a few facts you probably didn’t know about Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
1. Borlotti bean-and-Parmesan salad
You don't have to wait for braai season to enjoy a bean salad. Toss borlotti beans, anchovies and olives and dress in a lemony vinaigrette that packs a punch and pairs wonderfully with dill. Add a few shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano for saltiness and a hint of nuttiness. This salad can be enjoyed as a light lunch or as a side with your favourite meat and veg.
Borlotti bean-and-Parmesan salad recipe
2. Cheesy pan-fried gnocchi with crispy Parma ham
Move over mac n cheese, there's a new cheesy pasta dish in town! If you've never pan-fried your gnocchi, now's the time to start. The outside turns golden and crispy, while the inside remains pillowy and soft. Toss through a thick and creamy Parmigiano Reggiano sauce and top with crispy Parma ham – or forgo the meat for a meat-free dinner.
Cheesy gnocchi with Parma ham recipe
3. Caesar salad with parmesan crisps
Whether it was putting a spin on this iconic salad or sharing tips and tricks to improve the classic, one thing is certain: 2024 is the year Caesar salad was classified as cool again. We wanted to add our version to the pot: it features crispy Parmesan crisps instead of croutons, as well as the creamiest Caesar dressing you’ll ever make. This recipe will make the perfect no-cook lunch or a light side – or a much-needed crunchy addition to bring-and-braai get-togethers this summer.
Caesar salad with Parmesan crisps recipe
4. Creamy baby marrow pasta
This summery pasta is ready in 30 minutes! If you’re a fan of chicken Alfredo, this is the easier, no-meat version for nights when thawing chicken breasts just won’t cut it. Make sure to serve this pasta dish with a huge helping of grated Parmigiano Reggiano.
Creamy baby marrow and basil orecchiette recipe
5. Basil pesto pasta with garlic-Parmesan chicken
Making basil pesto from scratch is very easy. This is our budget-friendly version that uses toasted pumpkin seeds instead of pine nuts. Toss it with your favourite pasta – we've gone for flat pappardelle pasta, but fusilli will also work well. Bulk up the meal with chicken espetadas or keep it meat-free with halloumi kebabs.
Basil pesto pasta with parmesan chicken recipe
6. Parmesan fried chicken
Easy for weeknight suppers but impressive enough to serve when hosting, we love how versatile this Parmesan fried chicken recipe is. Parmigiano Reggiano is used to crumb chicken breasts before they're fried until golden and crispy. You don't have to limit Parmesan-crusting to chicken; steak and pork work just as well. Add finishing touches with chilli crisp and a crunchy salad of fennel and sugar snap peas.
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