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    The various forms of grana padano: grated, flaked, shaved, and cubed

    When you think of Grana Padano, its distinct flavour probably comes to mind straight away: delicate but with a bit of a tang, making it ideal for adding to all sorts of dishes. But did you know that Grana Padano can be enjoyed in different forms, each one working particularly well for different things in the kitchen?

    Let’s take a look at the main types: grated, petals, shavings, and cubes, and how best to use them!

    Grated Grana Padano

    What it is: Grated Grana Padano is the most well-known and versatile form. It’s made by finely grating the mature cheese.

    How to use it:

    Perfect for topping pasta

    Add it to dishes like spaghetti, lasagne, risottos, or gnocchi, and it gives a lovely savoury and creamy touch.

    In soups and purées

    Just a sprinkle can add extra flavour to soups and blended vegetable dishes.

    For gratins

    Mixed with breadcrumbs, it creates a golden and tasty crust on baked vegetables, flans, or pasta bakes.

    Top Tip
    For a more intense flavour, add the grated Grana Padano right at the end of cooking!

    Grana Padano petals

    What it is: Petals are very thin slices of Grana Padano, cut to look like small, light flakes.

    How to use it:

    Great in salads:

    The petals sit delicately on fresh vegetables, giving a mild flavour.

    Excellent with meat:

    They go well with sliced beef or carpaccio, adding savouriness and character.

    On cold dishes

    Also ideal on salads with spelt, barley, or couscous for a bit of a gourmet feel.

    Top Tip
    Try Grana Padano petals with rocket, pears, and walnuts: a simple but really tasty combination!

    Grana Padano shavings

    What it is: Shavings are irregular pieces of Grana Padano, a bit thicker and more substantial than the petals.

    How to use it:

    For nibbles and starters

    Serve them on their own or with cured meats and fresh fruit like grapes or figs – they really enhance any spread.

    With balsamic vinegar

    Grana Padano shavings and traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena are a classic pairing for those who appreciate good food.

    For tasting

    Try Grana Padano shavings of different ages to really appreciate all the different qualities of the cheese.

    Top Tip
    Choose shavings if you want to fully experience the crumbly texture and full flavour of Grana Padano!

    Grana Padano nuggets

    What it is: Grana Padano in nuggets is cut into small dice, making it easy to enjoy in one go.

    How to use it:

    Tasty snack

    The nuggets are perfect for a quick and healthy bite.

    At buffets and drinks parties

    Easy to serve, perhaps threaded onto skewers with olives, cherry tomatoes, or fresh fruit.

    In salads

    They add texture and flavour to more substantial salads, like those with chicken or pulses.

    Top Tip
    Pair Grana Padano cubes with a good glass of young white or red wine for a nice aperitif!

    In Conclusion

    Whether you prefer Grana Padano grated, as petals, in shavings, or as cubes, each form is designed to make your dishes taste their best. Do have a go at experimenting with different combinations and you’ll soon see just how versatile this popular PDO cheese really is.

    Bon appétit.

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