A true symbol of Italian culinary tradition, Parmigiano Reggiano stands out for its refined, exceptional, and complex flavour. Its distinct notes and remarkable versatility – thanks also to the variety of ageing periods – make it the perfect star ingredient for countless recipes: from appetisers and first courses to gourmet second courses and even desserts.
Among the most intriguing combinations are those with jams, fruit mustards and honey, which together create a unique interplay of sweet and savoury flavours – a contrast loved by every palate.
Would you like to know how to choose the right product for the perfect match? Keep reading to find practical ideas and useful tips for a truly unforgettable sensory experience!
The sweet–savory contrast in Parmigiano Reggiano pairings
Pairing Parmigiano Reggiano with sweet ingredients is not only delicious but also clever from a flavour-balancing perspective. Sugar softens the cheese natural saltiness, rounds out the flavour profile and, at the same time, enhances its aromatic nuances.
Of course, not all wheels taste the same: flavour intensity and aroma vary depending on the ageing. From the delicate milky notes of a 24-month cheese to the nutty, meaty tones of a 36-month wheel and the spicy depth of a 48-month, each stage offers different tasting experiences – which means each pairing deserves careful consideration.
Pairing 24-month Parmigiano Reggiano with jams and honey
Young, fresh and supple, 24-month Parmigiano Reggiano has a mild and balanced flavour. Pairings for this cheese should highlight its character without overpowering it.
Apricot, peach and pear jams work beautifully, as they are light and delicate. Fig jam also provides an excellent contrast, particularly in appetisers. Acacia and wildflower honey add a gentle sweetness that enhances the cheese smoothness without weighing it down.
Pairing 36-month Parmigiano Reggiano with fruit mustards and jams
More granular and crumbly than the 24-month variety, 36-month Parmigiano Reggiano has a firmer texture and pronounced notes of nuts, melted butter and meat broth. It calls for more structured pairings.
Tart jams such as cherry, red onion, plum or mixed berries complement the cheese intensity perfectly. Meanwhile, fruit mustards made with quince, pear or fig bring out the cheese granular texture and bold character.
Honey also makes an excellent companion. Chestnut and lime tree honey, with their slightly bitter aftertaste, strike an ideal balance with the strong, savoury flavour of a 36-month Parmigiano Reggiano.
Pairing 48-month Parmigiano Reggiano with honey and fruit mustards
For 48-month Parmigiano Reggiano, go for bold, full-bodied flavours. After four years of ageing, this cheese reaches its peak intensity, with a rich and persistent taste as well as an exceptionally complex aroma.
Choose jams with a strong character such as black fig, Williams pear or bitter citrus, which stand up to the cheese savoury power. Orange and mandarin marmalades also work wonderfully.
Among fruit mustards, pumpkin and the traditional Cremona-style mustard with mustard seeds offer the perfect level of sharpness. For honey, chestnut and strawberry tree varieties are refined options that add depth and aromatic richness.
Jams and Parmigiano: perfect pairings for starters
Starters are the perfect opportunity to experiment with Parmigiano Reggiano pairings.
On a cheese board, Parmigiano can be served in shavings or cubes alongside small bowls of fig, apricot or red fruit jams — chosen according to the cheese ageing, as mentioned above. For a more creative twist, try crostini topped with a Parmigiano cream and pears or small glasses filled with Parmigiano mousse and red onion jam.
Add a handful of walnuts, almonds or hazelnuts to complete the plate and add a pleasant crunch to your tasting experience.
Parmigiano Reggiano pairings in first courses
Pairings between Parmigiano Reggiano, jams, fruit mustards and honey can also shine in first courses.
One example is risotto with Parmigiano and pear or quince reduction: the sweetness of the fruit blends perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese for a balanced and elegant result. Another delicious option is pumpkin risotto with Parmigiano and a drizzle of chestnut honey, a surprisingly harmonious match.
For fresh pasta lovers, ravioli or tortelli filled with Parmigiano can be paired with delicate fruit mustards or a hint of berry jam to contrast the cheese saltiness. Even baked pasta dishes gain a creative twist when combined with well-aged Parmigiano Reggiano and a touch of red onion marmalade.
Parmigiano Reggiano pairings in second courses and side dishes
In second courses, Parmigiano Reggiano pairings bring a sophisticated, gourmet touch. Scaloppine with Parmigiano and acacia honey are a beloved classic, appreciated by both adults and children. Another excellent option is beef fillet served with 36 or 48-month shavings and citrus fruit mustard sauce – bold, aromatic and full of flavour. White meats such as chicken or turkey also pair beautifully with Parmigiano, especially when complemented with light, fruity jams.
As for side dishes, rocket salad with walnuts, pear slices and Parmigiano shavings is a well-loved choice, and it becomes even more flavourful with a drizzle of honey to highlight the contrasts. Grilled vegetables, too, pair perfectly with thin shavings of Parmigiano and smooth, fruity mustards.
Honey and Parmigiano Reggiano: pairings for desserts
With the right combinations, Parmigiano Reggiano can even become a delicious dessert ingredient. In addition to the classic 36 or 48-month shavings served with acacia, chestnut or strawberry tree honey, modern cuisine also suggests creative desserts such as Parmigiano ice cream with berries, mousse with honey and chopped pistachios, or semi-savoury cheesecakes with red fruit jam.
Discover all the secrets of Parmigiano Reggiano!
The extraordinary variety of possible Parmigiano Reggiano pairings proves just how versatile this cheese truly is, suitable for any time of day. Yet, these examples are only the beginning — the real joy of cooking lies in experimentation!
From traditional combinations to innovative creations, the union of fine cheesemaking with jams, fruit mustards and honey can offer ever-new and surprising nuances of flavour.
Let your imagination run free! Explore the selection from Caseificio Agricolo del Milanello or contact us for more information.
