Goat Milk

You may be surprised at the many Parmesan Cheese benefits you can enjoy when you eat this dairy delight in moderation.

What is Parmesan Cheese?

Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano Reggiano, is a hard variety of cheese that can be made from cow’s milk or goat’s milk. It is known for its salty and nutty flavor. It is a popular flavor addition in Italian cuisine. The authentic Parmigiano Reggiano is specifically acquired from certain regions of Italy and it lasts for over a year.

Is Parmesan Cheese Gluten Free?

Since Parmigiano Reggiano or parmesan is a dairy product, it qualifies the test of being gluten-free. Although make sure you check the nutrition label while buying this cheese, as sometimes during the production and manufacturing process, there can be gluten contamination.

Parmesan Cheese Nutrition

According to USDA Nutrition Data, parmesan is a good source of water, energy, total lipids, fiber, and sugar. It is also rich in various minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc. When it comes to vitamins, it has a rich supply of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin b12, and vitamin A, E, D, and K.

• Calories: A one-cup serving of parmesan cheese contains 431 calories.
• Carbs: A single cup contains 4 grams of carbs and 38 grams of protein.

Benefits of Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese has several health benefits and is touted as the superfood of cheeses. However, parmesan also contains a lot of salt, which people on low-sodium diets should keep in mind.

Calcium

Parmesan cheese is an excellent source of calcium, giving you more than a day’s worth in a single cup serving. Dietary calcium, along with protein and vitamin D, is crucial to gaining healthy bone mass. It also promotes heart health and strong teeth and prevents blood clotting.

Calcium is also an important part of muscle growth and health. According to a study published in Clinical Cases in Mineral and Bone Metabolism, conducted by Barbara Pampaloni et al., thanks to the artisanal and exclusive method of producing Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, it is one of the best dietary options for calcium uptake and easy digestion

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is known for promoting strong eyesight and low light vision. However, it is also critical for the development of strong, dense bones, a healthy immune system, and it may even lower your risk for certain cancers. It helps maintain your white blood cell count and boosts your immune system. It is also an important nutrient for reproductive health.

Protein

Parmesan is an excellent source of protein, with 20 grams in a 2-ounce serving. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair and also aids [4] in weight loss regimens.

 

 

 

 

 

Enjoy springtime treatment in a bowl with a vibrant watercress risotto with a goat cheese and hazelnut topping that complements the earthy flavors of the watercress

 

The recipe requires 15 minutes preparation time, 45 minutes cooking time, and serves .4

 

Ingredients:

 

• 120g soft goats cheese
• 70g parmesan or vegetarian alternative, finely grated
• 200g watercress
• 1 small bunch of basil
• 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 400g risotto rice
• 150ml white wine
• 4 litres hot vegetable or chicken stock
• ½ lemon, zested
• 50g hazelnuts, toasted and chopped

 

 

Directions:

 

 

• Blitz most of the watercress in a food processor with the basil and 1 tbsp of the olive oil until you have a smooth purée. Set aside.

 

 

• Heat the remaining oil and the butter in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the onion and a pinch of salt and cook on a low heat for 15 mins or until softened. Stir through the garlic and cook for 1 min. Add the rice and fry for 2 mins. Pour in the wine, simmer and reduce by half. Add half the stock and bring to a rapid simmer, stirring until the stock is absorbed. Once absorbed, add a ladleful of stock at a time and cook until the rice is al dente, stirring continuously for 20-25 mins, or until you have a loose risotto with a little bite – you may not need all the stock.

 

 

• Stir the watercress and basil purée through the risotto with the parmesan and lemon zest. Loosen the risotto with a dash more stock or hot water and season to taste.

 

 

• Top with the crumbled goats cheese, toasted hazelnuts, reserved watercress and a drizzle of olive oil.

 

 

More Best Gourmet Recipes for you.

 

• Mac & Cheese

 

 

• Sea Bass with Watercress