6 Must-Try Recipes That Make the Most of Grana Padano and Prosciutto di Parma
These mouthwatering dishes prove why the two PDO ingredients should be staples in your kitchen.
Europe has spent centuries perfecting its most treasured foods, and Grana Padano and Prosciutto di Parma sit at the very top of the list. Both carry the prestigious Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) seal, a guarantee of authenticity, traditional know-how, and meticulous quality. Crafted using time-honored methods, Grana Padano PDO and Prosciutto di Parma PDO deliver flavor you can taste in every bite and a touch of artisanal elegance every time you gather around the table.
Grana Padano, known for its mellow flavor and crystalline texture, starts with high-quality, partially skimmed milk from cows in Northern Italy’s Po Valley and is aged for at least nine months, until its flavors meld and its nutty richness fully develops. Prosciutto di Parma, naturally produced without additives or preservatives, cures for a minimum of 400 days under strict independent inspections. Hams that pass inspection receive the coveted Ducal Crown stamp, which denotes authenticity, quality, and the certified producer it came from. Together, these ingredients bring remarkable flavor, versatility, and a little extra magic to everyday meals and festive occasions alike.
Whether you’re whipping up a simple weeknight dinner or hosting a memorable gathering, these PDO treasures enhance every dish. Here are a few recipes that show them at their best.
Grana Padano Recipes
Inspired by Chilean chupe de centolla, this creamy crab gratin gets its richness from a generous handful of Grana Padano. Spoon it onto toasted country bread or crackers for an appetizer that’s rich, layered, and perfectly cheesy. Get the recipe >
Plump, juicy shrimp take center stage in this twist on a classic Caesar. Grated Grana Padano enriches the dressing with an umami kick, while delicate shavings of the cheese finish the salad with a subtle, salty crunch that adds depth to every bite. Get the recipe >
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these chicken cutlets get a punch from a generous hit of black pepper and a savory lift from grated Grana Padano cheese—quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough that everyone will reach for seconds. Get the recipe >
Prosciutto di Parma Recipes
Tuscan kale and garlic meet thin ribbons of Prosciutto di Parma atop crisp toasted bread. Each bite balances earthy greens with salty, savory meat, making an easy, elegant starter that’s full of texture and bold flavor. Get the recipe >
Fragrant herbs nestle inside a Prosciutto di Parma-wrapped loin that roasts to a golden, slightly crackling finish. The cured meat ensures the roast stays tender and juicy, while the edges develop a savory, caramelized, and slightly salty crust. It’s an easy technique for a centerpiece that wows at any special occasion. Get the recipe >
Tender, quill-shaped garganelli are tossed in a creamy sauce with sweet peas and ribbons of Prosciutto di Parma that melt into the pasta, adding delicate saltiness and meaty depth. Fresh mint brings a springlike brightness, making every bite flavorful, balanced, and lively. Get the recipe >
Head to DistinctlyDeliciouslyEuropean.eu to learn more about Grana Padano PDO and Prosciutto di Parma PDO.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or of the granting authority. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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