The truth about asiago cheese on spaghetti: is it a culinary sin?
What To Know
- Asiago d’Allevo is a softer, more spreadable cheese, while Asiago Pressato is a harder, more crumbly cheese.
- How much Asiago cheese should I use for a pound of spaghetti.
- A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 cup of grated Asiago cheese per pound of spaghetti.
Indulge in a tantalizing culinary journey as we explore the delectable union of Asiago cheese and spaghetti. This classic Italian dish has captivated taste buds for centuries, but the question remains: can you put Asiago cheese on spaghetti? The answer is a resounding yes! Asiago’s nutty, slightly salty flavor complements the richness of spaghetti, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
The Perfect Asiago for Spaghetti
When selecting Asiago cheese for your spaghetti, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Age: Asiago cheese is aged for varying periods, ranging from 6 months to over 2 years. Younger Asiago has a milder flavor, while aged Asiago is more intense and nutty. For spaghetti, a medium-aged Asiago (12-18 months) offers the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Type: There are two main types of Asiago cheese: Asiago d’Allevo and Asiago Pressato. Asiago d’Allevo is a softer, more spreadable cheese, while Asiago Pressato is a harder, more crumbly cheese. For spaghetti, Asiago Pressato is the preferred choice due to its ability to hold its shape when grated.
How to Grate Asiago for Spaghetti
Properly grating Asiago cheese is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a Microplane grater: This type of grater creates fine, even shavings that will melt evenly over your spaghetti.
- Grate cold cheese: Cold cheese will grate more easily and produce smaller, more consistent shavings.
- Grate directly over the spaghetti: This will ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed and melts quickly.
Melting Asiago on Spaghetti
Once the Asiago cheese is grated, it’s time to melt it over the spaghetti. Here are some tips for perfect melting:
- Use a warm pan: Place the spaghetti in a warm pan to help the cheese melt more evenly.
- Stir constantly: Stir the spaghetti continuously to prevent the cheese from sticking or burning.
- Add a splash of milk or cream: If the cheese starts to clump, add a small splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
Serving Asiago Spaghetti
Once your Asiago spaghetti is melted and creamy, it’s time to serve. Here are a few suggestions for garnishes and accompaniments:
- Freshly ground black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper enhances the nutty flavor of the Asiago cheese.
- Parsley: Finely chopped parsley adds a touch of freshness and color.
- Lemon zest: A hint of lemon zest brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the cheese.
Variations on Asiago Spaghetti
The classic combination of Asiago cheese and spaghetti is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Add other cheeses: Experiment with adding other cheeses, such as Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or Gorgonzola, to create a more complex flavor profile.
- Use different pasta shapes: While spaghetti is the traditional choice, you can also use other pasta shapes, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.
- Add vegetables: Sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms, add a pop of color and extra nutrients to your dish.
Health Benefits of Asiago Cheese
In addition to its delicious flavor, Asiago cheese offers several health benefits:
- Rich in calcium: Asiago cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Good source of protein: Asiago cheese is also a good source of protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.
- Contains probiotics: Aged Asiago cheese contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use other types of cheese on spaghetti instead of Asiago?
A: Yes, you can use other types of cheese, such as Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or Gorgonzola, but they will have a different flavor than Asiago.
Q: How much Asiago cheese should I use for a pound of spaghetti?
A: A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 cup of grated Asiago cheese per pound of spaghetti.
Q: Can I make Asiago spaghetti ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make Asiago spaghetti ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to store the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with Asiago spaghetti?
A: Good side dishes to serve with Asiago spaghetti include a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
