Why Cheese Is the Recipe to Impressing Your Valentine

To many food lovers a good quality cheese has the same indulgence factor as chocolate but without the sugar. With the added benefit of cheese pairing well with beer, wine, cider and many alcohol-free alternatives, it's surely a menu must-have for Valentine's Day.

The chefs at Grana Padano PDO have some great ideas for those looking for something different with which to impress their Valentine this year.  

From waking up to freshly cooked Grana Padano pancakes, to a restaurant worthy dinner and a grown up dessert -  you can always look to the Italians (and the world's most consumed  PDO cheese) for inspiration of the romantic kind.

Grana Padano Ciabatta dumplings with avocado, Amalfi lemon and chilli dip will transport you to relaxed lunches enjoyed in the Italian sunshine. For a taste of Italian street food, cacio e Pepe pasta “frittatine” with Grana Padano are crispy, delightful and surprisingly simple to make, while Grana Padano cheese and nutmeg puffs offer a comforting start to any dinner, enjoyed with your favourite tipple.

For starter or main Aubergine Milanese with Grana Padano hot espuma is a lovely contrast of textures and flavours.

You might not want to take on anything too challenging whilst you entertain your date, so we recommend aged Grana Padano and pumpkin gnocchi as a delicious and simple main course (chefs tip: save time by making the mashed potatoes in advance). For confident cooks who really want to go to town, Grana Padano agnolotti cacio e pepe is perfect for the wow factor.

Cheese is often the perfect way to end a meal but Grana Padano also has some inspiration for those with a sweet tooth, Grana Padano Riserva soufflé with fruit mustard and poached pears is perfect for discerning taste buds. Looking to impress with your presentation?-  Grana Padano cheesecake with lemon and figs looks as beautiful as it tastes.

Seeking out this authentic and versatile ingredient is super easy too, just look for the Grana Padano yellow lozenge and PDO trademark. Grana Padano PDO is widely available in supermarkets, delis and specialist grocers across the UK. For more information, please visit: https://www.granapadano.it.

Incidentally, my wife and I love Grana Padano PDO cheese as part of our Christmas cheeseboard!