Exploring the Importance of Cheese in the Cuisine of Italy

Last updated 9 months ago

Say cheese! That’s what you might be thinking after looking through the menu of your favorite Italian restaurant. Cheese is featured in an assortment of classic dishes, including salads, appetizers, and entrées. Here at Piccolo Trattoria, you can find a variety of popular types of Italian cheeses, such as:

Mozzarella. This cheese is made by a process of combining and then separating curds and whey. Once the curds are ready to be stretched, the chef kneads the cheese to create a smooth texture that is then broken into smaller pieces and rolled into balls. Mozzarella is used to create our Mozzarella in Carrozza, Mozzarella Sticks, Rigatoni Melanzane, Manicotti, and more!

Provolone. Another popular and well-known Italian cheese, provolone is made using a technique similar to that used to make mozzarella. This semi-hard cheese is made with cow’s milk and can feature either a mild or sharp flavor, depending on the exact type. Provolone fans can enjoy their favorite cheese by ordering the Hot Roast Pork Panini, Quattro Formaggio Pizza, or the Mimosa Chicken or Veal.

Parmigiano. This hard cheese is a popular topping for soups, salads, entrées, and side dishes. Cow’s milk is used to make this cheese, which is then aged for approximately two years in order to reach the required standards. Visit Piccolo Trattoria to find parmigiano in the Fettuccine Alfredo, Eggplants Involutini Di Melanzane, Lasagna Della Mamma, and our gourmet pizzas.

Ricotta. As a beloved soft cheese, ricotta is also well-known for having a unique formation process. Ricotta is actually made from the whey of the milk, resulting in a soft and creamy texture. This cheese can be found in our Gnocchi and Baked Ziti dishes, and can be ordered as a pizza topping.

Gorgonzola. Known as a blue cheese, gorgonzola is famous for its distinctive lines of blue and green. Try out this popular cheese in one of our salads or with one of our delectable pasta dishes.

The friendly staff members at Piccolo Trattoria can answer any questions you may have regarding the different types of cheese used to create our delicious dishes. Learn more about our casual dining atmosphere by calling us today at (215) 860-4247.