Grana Padano PDO cheese, what are the characteristics that distinguish it from other cheeses? For years it has been established as one of the most exported PDO products in the world not only for its guaranteed quality, but also for its infinite versatility in the kitchen.

In Piacenza, for example, where fresh pasta such as Tortelli and Anolini are at the base of the local gastronomy, Grana Padano cheese is an indispensable element for fillings.

Grana Padano is also a perfect appetizer, paired with Piacenza’s cold cuts.

An American friend was amazed at the first taste of a simple pasta with tomato sauce: how can such a simple dish be so good?!

Do you want to know?

Grana Padano PDO cheese: the TOP characteristics, word of producers

One of the characteristics that makes Italian cuisine and the Mediterranean diet so famous and renowned is the simplicity and genuineness of its products and raw materials used.

Taste Piacenza wants to promote the healthy Emilian diet, so we share with you the qualities of one of the pillars of our culinary culture: Grana Padano PDO.

No more guilt at the table: the nutritional values of Grana Padano PDO

The nutritional values of Grana Padano PDO, together with its characteristics, have always been recognized, in fact, it provides a significant amount of essential nutrients for our physical well-being. Nutritional qualities that are hardly found in other foods that contain the same amount of calories.

As we are constantly being told that we should remove everything we love most from our diet, Grana Padano is a very pleasant exception. Perfect in the diet of adults and children, in the right doses and within a varied and balanced diet.

How to recognize it? Our guide on PDO characteristics

Recognizing it is easy thanks to the brand that distinguishes it and certifies its production processes and origin.

The properties that make this Italian cheese unique, compared to any other cheese produced in the world, are many: the weight, the shape and, of course the unmistakable flavor and taste.

Even when it is portioned, this special cheese retains the marks that must always be clearly recognizable, because if absent it is not an original product. On the packages of Grana Padano in portions and the grated one, the PDO logo, that is the specific trademark defined by the European Union that marks products with Protected Designation of Origin, must always appear.

Which seasoning to choose?

The Grana Padano Consortium identifies three types of aging:

If you prefer a delicate taste and a sweet melt-in-your-mouth taste, we recommend aging from 9 to 16 months. Also excellent grated and for daily use, it goes well with an aperitif with fresh and young white wines.

For those who prefer a savory, not spicy taste, and an aroma reminiscent of dried fruit, the ideal is aging over 16 months. It is particularly suitable for grating and ideal for careful and refined cuisine, when looking for “an extra touch”. Perfect for pairing with soft and full-bodied red wines.

The “Riserva”, aged over 20 months is certainly ideal for special occasions and gourmet palates for true connoisseurs. It is characterized by a rich and full taste, never aggressive, fragrant and delicate at the same time reminiscent of butter, hay and dried fruit. Superb for both meal and grated. Perfect to accompany with dessert wines and fortified wines and full and aged reds.

Now you just have to indulge yourself and try it with all the combinations. On our e-shop, in the Italian Cheeses section, you will find what is right for you! Taste it and tell us yours.

Enjoy your meal!