Salads > Salad Toppings > Cheese Toppings > Parmesan Cheese (Shaved or Grated)

Parmesan Shavings with Lemon Zest

Add a burst of fresh, zesty flavor to your salad with Parmesan shavings infused with lemon zest. This simple topping is elegant, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with green salads, arugula salads, or salads featuring roasted vegetables.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Servings
About 4 servings
Ingredients
  • 4 oz Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 Lemon
  • 1 teaspoon Olive Oil (optional)

Zest the Lemon

Wash the lemon thoroughly. Using a microplane or zester, carefully zest the lemon, being sure to only remove the yellow part of the peel and avoiding the white pith underneath, which is bitter. Aim for about 1 teaspoon of lemon zest.

Prepare Parmesan Shavings

Using a vegetable peeler or a cheese shaver, create thin shavings of Parmesan cheese. You can also use a sharp knife to carefully cut thin slices. The size and shape of the shavings are up to your preference.

Combine Ingredients

In a small bowl, gently toss the Parmesan shavings with the lemon zest. If desired, drizzle with a teaspoon of high-quality olive oil for added flavor and moisture. Be careful not to overdo the olive oil, as it can make the cheese greasy.

Serve Immediately

Sprinkle the Parmesan shavings with lemon zest over your salad just before serving. This will ensure the Parmesan is fresh and the lemon zest retains its vibrant flavor and aroma.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: ~400 kcal
Protein: ~32g
Fat: ~30g
Carbohydrates: ~2g
Calcium: ~1100mg

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. The nutritional values can vary based on the specific Parmesan cheese used. Consider organic lemons to limit pesticide exposure.

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FAQ

  • Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon zest?

    Fresh lemon zest is highly recommended for the best flavor and aroma. Bottled lemon juice lacks the essential oils that give lemon zest its characteristic fragrance and zing.
  • What kind of Parmesan cheese should I use?

    A high-quality aged Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano) is ideal for this recipe. It has a rich, complex flavor and a firm texture that is perfect for shaving.
  • How long will this topping last?

    This topping is best used immediately. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, store the Parmesan shavings and lemon zest separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving.