Make these 7 recipes with 1 wedge of Parmigiano Reggiano 

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With its rich, distinctive flavour and slightly grainy texture, Parmigiano Reggiano sets a high bar. And once you experience its singular flavour, you’ll understand why. First made in the 12th century, the rich, mature hard cheese with its slightly crumbly consistency is still crafted largely in the same way today – by hand, according to a very specific set of criteria. The region, feed of the cows, high quality of the raw milk and the ageing process – a minimum of 12 months – all contribute to its unique taste. The PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) mark and Parmigiano Reggiano logo on the cheese's rind ensures that what you’re enjoying is the real thing. With every bite of Parmigiano Reggiano, you taste a bit of Italian heritage.

Got a wedge of this legendary cheese in your fridge? Here's how to add it to your meals, all week long:

1. BREAKFAST: Brown-butter poached eggs and asparagus

It's said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If that's the case, make a big deal of it. Serve blanched asparagus spears with poached eggs drizzled with brown butter, finished with a sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano. The combination of nutty brown butter, rich, runny egg yolks, crispy fried leeks and Parmigiano Reggiano is a flavour explosion that's sure the wake up your taste buds!

Get the recipe for brown-butter poached eggs and asparagus here.

2. LUNCH: Parmesan-and-lemon chicken

Lemony Parmesan chicken is usually served in a creamy sauce. This version is a one-pot time-saver that leaves out the cream to make a light yet satisfying salad. Serve with any leftover carbs, or go for low-carb cauliflower rice. This recipe is for anyone looking for a speedy lunch that's more interesting than a sandwich and doesn't require waiting for a delivery.

Get the recipe for parmesan-and-lemon chicken here.

3. MIDWEEK DINNER: Chicken Parmigiana

This classic Italian-American dish cannot be topped. Every bite is heaven. Fried chicken breasts coated in Parmigiano Reggiano, are topped with rich marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese that's baked until it's melted and bubbly. If you're going meat-free, try the brinjal version (melanzane alla Parmigiana).

Get the recipe for chicken Parmigiana here.

4. WEEKEND BRAAI: Garlic bread with Parmesan miso butter

Garlic, miso and Parmigiano Reggiano are all umami flavour bombs that are bound to turn an ordinary loaf into the most moreish dish you'll serve at your next braai. Don't forget to sprinkle more Parmigiano Reggiano over the garlic bread just before serving. If you're looking for a signature braai side, this recipe is it!

Get the recipe for garlic bread with Parmesan miso butter here.

5. Sunday roast side: Seven colours creamed spinach-stuffed butternut

Creamed spinach and roast butternut are two classic South African steakhouse sides that always make a meal come together. This recipe combines the two dishes to make an epic side that deserves a spot at your next Sunday lunch table. To add extra flavour to the creamed spinach stuffing, we've added Parmigiano Reggiano.

Get the recipe for seven colours creamed spinach-stuffed butternut here.

6. Snack: Herbed Parmesan biscuits

This is the grown-up version of Mini Cheddar snacks. These herby, cheesy crackers are a fantastic snack to make in a large batch, ready for when you have a craving for something crunchy and salty.

Get the recipe for herbed Parmesan biscuits here.

7. Flavour bomb: Rocket-and-red pepper pesto

It's always a good idea to have a jar of pesto in your fridge. You can spread it on toast, fry your eggs in a heaped spoonful or add the entire jar to cooked pasta for a quick dinner.

Get the recipe for rocket-and-red pepper pesto here. 

Masterfully made in Italy with the same passion, expertise and dedication as it was in the 12th century, Parmigiano Reggiano remains true to its heritage and taste. Artisan cheesemakers use traditional methods of production distinctive to the area of origin, to create the only authentic Parmesan cheese.

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