At a Glance:
- Parmesan cheese’s versatility and flavour-enhancing qualities make it an iconic choice for pasta dishes.
- Here are some delightful ways to incorporate Parmesan cheese into your pasta dishes.
Pasta is an absolute sensation in Australian culinary practice, captivating the hearts and taste buds of millions. Its popularity stems from its comforting and versatile nature that can bring people together, a lot of them. There are tens of ways to enjoy this luscious meal, and wherever your taste preferences may lie, pasta dishes offer a satisfying experience for anyone. And for our unanimous love for pasta dishes, what better way to enjoy them than with the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese? Parmesan is a great addition to pasta dishes. Its umami flavour profile adds depth and complexity to pasta dishes, resulting in a decadent meal.
This aged Italian delicacy adds a burst of savoury richness, which imparts a delightful nuttiness that blends perfectly with the pasta’s flavours. From sprinkling it over a plate of spaghetti bolognese to topping it on lasagne, parmesan cheese takes the pasta to new heights, making it irresistible for the palates. In this blog, we will explore the incredible ways Parmesan cheese can be incorporated into different pasta recipes, showcasing its ability to elevate the dining experience and leave food enthusiasts craving for more.
Creamy Cheesy Indulgence: Parmesan in Alfredo Sauces
The most iconic use of Parmesan cheese in pasta is through creamy Alfredo sauces. Grated Parmesan cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce, infusing it with a rich, savoury flavour. The creamy and slightly tangy flavour of Parmesan cheese beautifully balances the richness of butter and cream. The trick to creating a luscious Alfredo sauce starts with melting butter in a pan, then adding minced garlic, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts and forms a velvety sauce that coats each strand of pasta.
Crispy Pasta Delights: Parmesan Breadcrumbs
Parmesan cheese can be used as delectable crispy breadcrumbs on pasta dishes that add both texture and flavour to the pasta. Start by combining grated Parmesan with fresh breadcrumbs and garlic. If you enjoy some earthy flavours in your pasta, add herbs like parsley or thyme. Stir the mixture lightly with olive oil until it forms a crumbly texture, then bake it until you get golden brown crumbs. Sprinkle these savoury breadcrumbs over pasta dishes, baked pasta or macaroni and cheese. The crispy, crunchy Parmesan breadcrumbs will add a delightful crunch that elevates the overall pasta experience.
Bold and Zesty Selection: Parmesan in Pesto Pasta
Parmesan cheese and vibrant pesto are a match made in heaven. Pesto, a sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, coarse salt, olive oil, and Parmesan, provides a burst of fresh, herbal flavours. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese gives the sauce a rich and creamy texture while enhancing its nutty elements. Mix this delightful pesto sauce with your favourite pasta dishes and sprinkle some additional Parmesan shreds on top of the pasta for an aromatic and mouthwatering dish.
Savoury Explosion in Pasta Dishes: Parmesan in Tomato-Based Pasta
Tomato sauce is a popular topping on pasta dishes, and tomato-based pasta dishes are a staple in many cuisines. Parmesan cheese brings an irresistible savoury quality to the pasta. When you combine Parmesan cheese with tomato sauce, the saltiness of Parmesan counterbalances the acidity and sweetness of the sauce, resulting in a perfectly balanced and flavorful sauce. Grate Parmesan over the pasta just before serving to enjoy and enjoy its delightful richness and depth of flavour.
Conclusion
Parmesan cheese brings a touch of culinary magic to every pasta creation. From creamy Alfredo sauces and flavourful tomato sauce to crispy Parmesan breadcrumbs, using Parmesan cheese in pasta elevates the taste, texture, and overall dining experience. Its ability to add bold flavours and leave a lasting impression on food enthusiasts makes it a must-have ingredient in any pasta creation. So, next time you prepare your favourite pasta dish, don’t forget to indulge in the deliciousness of Parmesan cheese.