Best Soft & Hard Italian Cheeses

Top 10 Soft & Hard Italian Cheeses

Best Cheese to Eat or Bring back from Italy

by Anastasia Bakker Tuscany, Italy May 8, 2025

Top 10 Soft & Hard Italian Cheeses - Best Cheese to Eat or Bring back from Italy - Anastasia Bakker Italy is world-famous for its incredible variety of Italian cheeses, and no trip to Italy is complete without tasting some of the finest examples of both hard Italian cheeses and soft Italian cheeses.

Whether you're planning to savor authentic Italian flavors during your travels or searching for the best cheese to bring back from Italy as a gourmet souvenir, this guide covers the top 10 must-try Italian cheese options.

From the rich, nutty notes of aged Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano, to the creamy decadence of Mozzarella di Bufala, Burrata, and Robiola, each cheese offers a unique taste of Italian tradition.

Discover what each cheese tastes like, how to enjoy it, wine pairings, alternatives and substitutes, health benefits, and even whether it’s safe during pregnancy or fits a keto diet. Perfect for food lovers, travelers, or anyone building the ultimate Italian charcuterie board.

🧀 Top Rated Hard Italian Cheeses List

Perfect for Tasting & Taking Back Home from Italy

1. Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan cheese

What is Parmigiano Reggiano cheese? Parmigiano Reggiano is a hard, granular Italian cheese made from unpasteurized cow’s milk in specific provinces of Northern Italy (Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua). Italian cheese Reggiano is aged a minimum of 12 months and up to 36+ months, giving it a complex flavor and crumbly texture. Often called the “King of Cheeses.”

Parmigiano Reggiano - Parmesan Cheese Information

Travel to Tuscany TipBox

Would you like to visit a Parmigiano Reggiano factory in Italy with a guided tasting of Parmigiano cheese, paired with fine local sparkling wine?

Tip: Buy a vacuum-packed Parmesan wedge from a certified producer.
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese substitute / alternative: Grana Padano (similar but milder and less aged), Pecorino Romano (saltier, sheep's milk-based), Dry aged Asiago or aged Gouda (for texture)
What does Parmigiano Reggiano cheese taste like? Nutty, savory, umami-rich, with hints of toasted caramel and a crystalline crunch due to natural aging.
How to eat Parmigiano Reggiano? Grated over pasta, risotto, or soup; shaved on arugula salads or carpaccio; enjoyed in chunks with balsamic vinegar, honey, or pears.
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese nutrition facts (per 100g): Calories: ~430 kcal, Protein: 33g, Fat: 29g, Carbs: 1g, Calcium: ~1100 mg, Sodium: ~650 mg
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese health benefits: Rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, and Vitamin A. Aids muscle and bone health, and is naturally low in lactose, making it easier to digest.
Is Parmigiano Reggiano cheese lactose-free? Yes. Due to its long aging, it contains less than 0.01g of lactose per 100g — effectively lactose-free.
Is Parmigiano Reggiano cheese pasteurized? No. It is traditionally made from raw (unpasteurized) cow’s milk, but the aging process eliminates harmful bacteria.
Is Parmigiano Reggiano cheese safe during pregnancy?: Yes. Despite being made from raw milk, it’s safe because it’s a hard cheese aged over 12 months, which inhibits listeria.
Is Parmigiano Reggiano keto? Yes. It’s very low in carbs, high in fat and protein — ideal for keto and low-carb diets.
Is Parmigiano Reggiano cheese vegetarian? No. It is made with animal rennet, so it is not suitable for strict vegetarians.
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese wine pairing: Red: Chianti, Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino. White: Verdicchio, Soave. Sparkling: Lambrusco or Franciacorta. Dessert: Aged balsamic vinegar with a glass of Vin Santo

Buy Italian Parmigiano Reggiano DOP - Parmesan Cheese

Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan cheese from Italy

Italian cheeeses
charcuterie

Shopping in a Supermarket in Italy

In this Italian vlog - antipasti video recipe, we’re first heading to a supermarket in Tuscany, Italy 🇮🇹 to pick out the best Italian cheeses, cured meats, olives, and other delicious delicacies for a Saturday Italian antipasto - charcuterie board.

Living in Italy Vlog Series

2. Grana Padano cheese

What is Grana Padano cheese? Grana Padano is a hard, slow-ripened cow’s milk Italian cheese from the Po River Valley in Northern Italy. It is similar to Parmigiano Reggiano but typically milder and less aged (9–20+ months). It has a finely grainy texture and is protected by DOP status.

Grana Padano Cheese Information

Tip: Great souvenir cheese — travel-friendly.
Grana Padano cheese substitute / alternative: Parmigiano Reggiano (stronger flavor), Pecorino Romano (saltier and made from sheep’s milk), Aged Asiago (milder, softer texture)
What does Grana Padano cheese taste like? Mildly nutty, slightly sweet, and savory with a firm, crumbly texture that becomes more granular as it ages.
How to eat Grana Padano cheese? Grated on pasta, soup, risotto; shaved on salads or pizza; served in chunks with fruit, nuts, or honey.
Grana Padano cheese nutrition facts (per 100g): Calories: ~398 kcal, Protein: 33g, Fat: 28g, Carbs: less than 1g, Calcium: ~1200 mg, Sodium: ~650 mg
Grana Padano cheese health benefits: Rich in protein and calcium, supports bone and muscle health. Naturally low in lactose and easy to digest. Contains antioxidants and B12.
Is Grana Padano cheese lactose free? Yes. Due to long aging and bacterial fermentation, it's virtually lactose-free (less than 0.01g per 100g).
Is Grana Padano cheese pasteurized? Usually made from partially skimmed raw or thermized cow’s milk, depending on the dairy.
Is Grana Padano cheese safe during pregnancy?: Yes. Its hard texture and aging process (min. 9 months) make it safe, even if unpasteurized.
Is Grana Padano cheese keto? Yes. Grana Padano is low in carbs and high in fat and protein, ideal for keto and low-carb diets.
Is Grana Padano cheese vegetarian? No. It contains animal rennet, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians.
Grana Padano wine pairing Red: Barbera, Dolcetto, Chianti. White: Pinot Grigio, Trebbiano. Sparkling: Prosecco. Dessert: Aged balsamic vinegar & Moscato

Buy Italian Grana Padano Cheese

Grana Padano cheese from Italy

3. Pecorino Romano Cheese

What is Pecorino Romano cheese? Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty Italian cheese made from sheep’s milk, traditionally produced in Lazio, Sardinia, and parts of Tuscany. Aged for at least 5 – 8 months (or longer), it’s one of Italy’s oldest cheeses, dating back to Roman times.

Pecorino Romano Cheese Information

Tip: Aged versions are best for travel.
Pecorino Romano cheese alternative / substitute: Parmigiano Reggiano (less salty, cow’s milk), Grana Padano (milder, less sharp), Manchego (Spanish sheep’s milk cheese)
What does Pecorino Romano cheese taste like? Salty, sharp, tangy, and bold with a dry, crumbly texture — more intense than Parmigiano Reggiano.
How to eat Pecorino Romano cheese? Grated over pasta (especially Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe), soups, and vegetables; or eaten in thin slices with pears, figs, or bread.
Pecorino Romano cheese nutrition facts (per 100g): Pecorino Romano nutrition facts (per 100g): Calories: ~387 kcal, Protein: 28g, Fat: 32g, Carbs: less than 1g, Calcium: ~1100 mg, Sodium: ~1000 mg
Pecorino Romano cheese health benefits: Rich in protein, calcium, and phosphorus; made from sheep’s milk, which contains more healthy fats and vitamins A & E than cow’s milk.
Is Pecorino Romano cheese lactose-free? Yes. Aged Pecorino is considered lactose-free due to the fermentation and aging process.
Is Pecorino Romano cheese pasteurized? Often made from raw or thermized sheep’s milk, depending on the producer and DOP guidelines.
Is Pecorino Romano cheese safe during pregnancy?: Yes, due to its hard texture and long aging, even unpasteurized versions are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Is Pecorino Romano cheese keto? Yes. Recorino Romano is low in carbs and high in fat and protein — perfect for keto and low-carb diets.
Is Pecorino Romano cheese vegetarian? No. It is traditionally made with animal rennet, so it is not suitable for vegetarians.
Pecorino Romano cheese wine pairing: Red: Chianti, Nero d’Avola, Montepulciano. White: Vermentino, Frascati. Dessert: Pairs well with honey and a glass of sweet Vin Santo

Buy Italian Pecorino Romano Cheese

Pecorino Romano Cheese from Italy

4. Provolone cheese (Provolone Valpadana Piccante)

What is Provolone cheese? Provolone is a semi-hard Italian cheese made from cow’s milk, originally from Southern Italy but now mainly produced in Northern regions like Lombardy and Veneto. It comes in two main types: Provolone Dolce (mild, aged 2–3 months) and Provolone Piccante (sharp, aged over 4 months, sometimes over a year).

Provolone Cheese Information

Tip: Aged provolone holds up well for travel.
Provolone cheese alternative / substitute: Scamorza (younger and milder), Mozzarella (softer, for melting), Aged Asiago or Fontina (if replacing sharp provolone)
What does Provolone cheese taste like? Dolce: Mild, creamy, slightly tangy. Piccante: Sharp, salty, robust and spicy with a stronger aroma
How to eat Provolone cheese? Sliced in sandwiches or panini, melted in baked dishes, grilled, served on cheese boards, or enjoyed with olives and cured meats.
Provolone cheese nutrition facts (per 100g): Calories: ~351 kcal, Protein: 26g, Fat: 27g, Carbs: 2g, Calcium: ~750 mg, Sodium: ~800 mg
Provolone cheese health benefits: High in calcium and protein; supports bone and muscle health; moderate levels of vitamins A and B12.
Is Provolone cheese lactose-free? Not completely, but low in lactose (especially aged varieties), often tolerable for lactose-sensitive individuals.
Is Provolone cheese pasteurized? Can be made with pasteurized or raw milk — check the label, especially outside of Italy.
Is Provolone cheese safe during pregnancy?: Yes, if made with pasteurized milk. Aged versions (especially Piccante) are generally safer due to low moisture.
Is Provolone cheese keto? Yes. It’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein — suitable for keto and low-carb diets.
Is Provolone cheese vegetarian? Often not vegetarian, as it's typically made with animal rennet — check for labeled vegetarian-friendly versions.
Provolone cheese wine pairing: Provolone Dolce pairs well with light reds like Dolcetto or white wines like Pinot Grigio. Provolone Piccante pairs well with bold reds like Barolo or Chianti, or full-bodied whites like Chardonnay.

Buy Italian Provolone Cheese

Pecorino Romano Cheese from Italy

5. Сaciocavallo Сheese

What is Caciocavallo cheese? Italian cheese Caciocavallo is a traditional Southern Italian stretched-curd cheese (usually from Calabria, Sicily) made from cow’s milk, shaped like a teardrop and often aged by hanging in pairs.

Caciocavallo Cheese Information

Tip: The aged version (Caciocavallo stagionato) is perfect to take home from Italy.
Caciocavallo cheese alternative / substitute: Try Provolone, Kashkaval, or aged Pecorino for a similar texture and flavor profile.
What does Caciocavallo cheese taste like? It has a sharp, salty, and nutty flavor that intensifies with age — ranging from mild when young to piquant when aged.
How to eat Caciocavallo cheese? Slice it for cheese boards, grill it (especially the aged version), or melt it into dishes like panini, pasta, or baked vegetables.
Caciocavallo cheese nutrition facts (per 100g): Approx. 350–400 kcal, 25g fat, 30g protein, 0–2g carbs. High in calcium and phosphorus.
Caciocavallo cheese health benefits: Rich in protein, calcium, and B vitamins; supports bone and muscle health.
Is Caciocavallo cheese lactose-free? Typically low in lactose (especially aged), but not entirely lactose-free.
Is Caciocavallo cheese pasteurized? Depends on the producer — some are pasteurized, others made with raw milk. Check the label.
Is Caciocavallo cheese safe during pregnancy?: Pasteurized versions are safe; raw milk types should be avoided unless cooked.
Is Caciocavallo cheese keto? Yes, Caciocavallo is keto-friendly: high in fat, low in carbs.
Is Caciocavallo cheese vegetarian? Usually not vegetarian, as it’s traditionally made with animal rennet.
Caciocavallo cheese wine pairing: Pairs well with Chianti wine, Aglianico, or Nero d'Avola — or with dry whites like Falanghina when young.

Buy Italian Caciocavallo Silano Cheese

Caciocavallo Cheese from Italy

Must Have Cheese Accessories

🧀 Top Rated Soft Italian Cheeses List

Best Enjoyed Fresh in Italy

6. Mozzarella di Bufala Campana

What is Mozzarella di Bufala cheese? Mozzarella di Bufala is a fresh, soft Italian cheese made from water buffalo milk, traditionally produced in the Campania region (especially around Naples, Salerno, and Caserta). It is protected by DOP status and known for its delicate, milky flavor and moist, elastic texture.

Mozzarella di Bufala Cheese Information

Tip: Eat in Italy; doesn’t travel well unless flown home within 1–2 days.
Mozzarella cheese alternative / substitute: Cow’s milk mozzarella (Fior di Latte) – milder, Burrata – creamier and softer, Stracciatella – for extra creamy dishes
What does Mozzarella cheese taste like? Mild, milky, slightly tangy, rich and creamy with a fresh, juicy bite. More flavorful than cow’s milk mozzarella.
How to eat Mozzarella cheese? Best enjoyed fresh at room temperature in salads (like Caprese), on pizza, in panini, with tomatoes and olive oil, or simply with salt and basil.
Mozzarella di Bufala nutrition facts (per 100g): Calories: ~250 kcal, Protein: 12g, Fat: 20g, Carbs: 1g, Calcium: ~400 mg, Sodium: ~300 mg
Mozzarella di Bufala cheese health benefits: Rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins A, B2, and B12. Easier to digest than cow’s milk mozzarella. Naturally moist and lower in sodium than many aged cheeses.
Is Mozzarella cheese lactose-free? No. It contains moderate lactose and is not suitable for people with lactose intolerance.
Is Mozzarella cheese pasteurized? Often unpasteurized in traditional DOP versions. Pasteurized options are available commercially — check the label.
Is Mozzarella di Bufala safe during pregnancy?: Only if made with pasteurized milk. Avoid unpasteurized fresh cheeses during pregnancy unless cooked.
Is Mozzarella cheese keto? Yes. Low in carbs, high in fat and protein — suitable for keto and low-carb diets.
Is Mozzarella di Bufala cheese vegetarian? Usually not vegetarian, as it often contains animal rennet. Some producers offer vegetarian options — check packaging.
Buffalo Mozzarella wine pairing: White: Falanghina, Vermentino, Pinot Bianco. Rosé: Dry rosé from Puglia or Provence. Red: Young Chianti or Dolcetto. Also great with sparkling wines like Prosecco

Buy Italian Mozarella Ciliegine Cheese

Mozzarella di Bufala Campana Cheese from Italy

7. Burrata cheese

What is Burrata cheese? Burrata is a fresh soft Italian cheese made from cow’s milk (sometimes buffalo milk), originating in Puglia. It has a mozzarella shell filled with stracciatella (shredded mozzarella) and fresh cream, giving it an ultra-soft, creamy center.

Burrata appetizer
Italian Cheese

Burrata - How to Eat & How to Serve

Impress Your Guests with This Refined but Easy Italian Appetizer
in Just 2 Minutes!

Visit my Youtube Channel for more Living in Italy Series Videos

Burrata Cheese Information

Tip: Best enjoyed locally in Puglia; not suitable for long travel
Burrata substitute / alternative: Fresh mozzarella (less creamy), Stracciatella (if just using the inside), Ricotta (in texture and mild flavor)
What does Burrata cheese taste like? Delicate, milky, buttery, and slightly tangy with a luxurious creamy texture. Mild in flavor but rich and indulgent.
How to eat Burrata cheese? Serve at room temperature with ripe tomatoes, prosciutto, grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or fresh figs. Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt.
Burrata nutrition information (per 100g): Calories: ~300–350 kcal, Protein: 12–15g, Fat: 25–30g, Carbs: 2g, Calcium: ~350 mg, Sodium: ~300 mg
Burrata cheese health benefits: Good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin A. Rich in healthy fats and very satiating when consumed in moderation.
Is Burrata cheese lactose-free? No — Burrata is high in lactose, due to the creamy center. Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Is Burrata cheese pasteurized? Often made with pasteurized milk for commercial sale, but check the label, especially if buying artisanal versions.
Is Burrata cheese safe during pregnancy?: Only if made with pasteurized milk. Unpasteurized fresh cheeses are not recommended unless thoroughly cooked.
Is Burrata cheese keto? Yes — Burrata is low in carbs and high in fat, making it keto-friendly.
Is Burrata cheese vegetarian? Often not vegetarian due to the use of animal rennet, but some versions are made with microbial rennet — check labels.
Burrata cheese wine pairing: White: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Fiano. Rosé: Dry rosé from Puglia or Sicily. Red: Light reds like Barbera or Dolcetto. Sparkling: Prosecco or Franciacorta

Buy Italian Burrata Cheese

Burrata Cheese from Italy

8. Gorgonzola cheese

What is Gorgonzola cheese? Gorgonzola is a blue-veined soft Italian cheese made from cow’s milk, originally from Lombardy and Piedmont. It comes in two main types: Gorgonzola Dolce (sweet, creamy) and Gorgonzola Piccante (sharp, aged).

Gorgonzola Cheese Information

Tip: Choose Gorgonzola piccante (aged) for stronger taste
Gorgonzola cheese alternative / substitute: Roquefort (saltier, sheep’s milk), Stilton (earthier, firmer), Blue d’Auvergne (creamy and tangy)
What does Gorgonzola cheese taste like?Gorgonzola Dolce: soft, creamy, mild, and slightly tangy. Gorgonzola Piccante: stronger, sharp, and crumbly with bold blue flavors.
How to eat Gorgonzola cheese? Spread on crusty bread, melt into risottos or gnocchi, crumble into salads, pair with pears, figs, or honey. Also delicious with walnuts or on pizza.
Gorgonzola cheese nutrition facts (per 100g): Calories: ~320 kcal, Protein: 18g, Fat: 28g, Carbs: 0.5–1g, Calcium: ~360 mg, Sodium: ~600–800 mg
Gorgonzola cheese health benefits: Rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. The mold may support gut health, though it's high in sodium and saturated fat.
Is Gorgonzola cheese lactose-free? Low in lactose, but not lactose-free — may be tolerated in small amounts by some lactose-sensitive individuals.
Is Gorgonzola cheese pasteurized? Often pasteurized in commercial production. DOP Gorgonzola can be made from either pasteurized or unpasteurized milk — check the label.
Is Gorgonzola cheese safe during pregnancy?: Only if pasteurized and cooked. Soft blue cheeses carry a listeria risk when eaten raw.
Is Gorgonzola cheese keto? Yes — very low in carbs, high in fat and protein. Keto-friendly in moderation.
Is Gorgonzola cheese vegetarian? Typically not vegetarian, as it uses animal rennet. Some brands offer vegetarian options.
Gorgonzola cheese wine pairing: Gorgonzola Dolce: Moscato, Vin Santo, or late-harvest wines. Gorgonzola Piccante: Barolo, Amarone, Chianti Riserva. Also pairs well with Port or bold reds

Buy Italian Gorgonzola Cheese

Gorgonzola Cheese from Italy

9. Taleggio cheese

What is Taleggio cheese? Taleggio is a semi-soft, washed-rind Italian cheese made from cow’s milk, originating in the Taleggio Valley in Lombardy. It has a distinct orange-pink rind, a pungent aroma, and a mild, creamy flavor.

Taleggio Cheese Information

Tip: Wrap tightly for transport; store cool
Taleggio alternative / substitute: Brie (creamier, less pungent), Munster (similar rind and aroma), Fontina (firmer, nutty notes).
What does Taleggio cheese taste like? Mildly tangy, buttery, and slightly fruity with earthy undertones. Its smell is stronger than its flavor.
How to eat Taleggio cheese? Melt it into risottos or polenta, add to grilled cheese or focaccia, serve with fruits like grapes or figs, or enjoy on a cheese board with honey and nuts.
Taleggio cheese nutrition facts (per 100g): Calories: ~320 kcal, Protein: 17–18g, Fat: 27–30g, Carbs: ~1g, Calcium: ~500 mg, Sodium: ~600 mg
Taleggio cheese health benefits: A good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus. Supports bone health and satiety when eaten in moderation.
Is Taleggio cheese lactose-free? Low in lactose, often tolerable in small amounts for sensitive individuals.
Is Taleggio cheese pasteurized? Commercial versions are usually made with pasteurized milk. Always check the label, especially for artisanal varieties.
Is Taleggio cheese safe during pregnancy?: Only if pasteurized. Washed-rind cheeses can carry listeria risk if made with raw milk and not cooked.
Is Taleggio cheese keto? Yes — very low in carbs and high in fat and protein. Keto-friendly.
Is Taleggio cheese vegetarian? Usually not vegetarian, as it traditionally contains animal rennet. Some brands may use microbial rennet — check the label.
Taleggio wine pairing: White: Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Soave. Red: Pinot Noir, Dolcetto. Also pairs beautifully with craft beers or Lambrusco

Buy Italian Taleggio Cheese

Taleggio Cheese from Italy

10. Robiola cheese

What is Robiola cheese? Robiola is a soft-ripened Italian cheese from the Piedmont region, made from cow, goat, sheep milk — or a blend. It has a creamy texture, delicate flavor, and comes in various styles (e.g., Robiola Bosina, Robiola Rocchetta).

Robiola Cheese Information

Tip: Choose vacuum-packed versions for easier transport
Robiola substitute / alternative: Brie (richer, less tangy), Camembert (more intense), Cream cheese (for spreads)
What does Robiola cheese taste like? Mild, tangy, and slightly sweet with a buttery, creamy texture. More intense versions have grassy or mushroom-like notes.
How to eat Robiola cheese? Spread on crostini, serve with figs or honey, pair with cured meats, or stir into risotto and pasta for extra creaminess.
Robiola cheese nutrition facts (per 100g): Calories: ~290–350 kcal, Protein: 12–18g, Fat: 25–32g, Carbs: ~1g, Calcium: ~350 mg, Sodium: ~500–700 mg
Robiola cheese health benefits: Rich in calcium, protein, and healthy fats. Contains probiotics when made traditionally. Easy to digest due to short aging.
Is Robiola cheese lactose-free? Not lactose-free, but may be tolerated better than aged cheeses due to lower lactose in blended milk versions.
Is Robiola cheese pasteurized? Often pasteurized, especially in commercial production. Artisanal varieties may use raw milk — check the label.
Is Robiola cheese safe during pregnancy?: Only if made from pasteurized milk and consumed fresh. Soft cheeses carry a listeria risk if unpasteurized.
Is Robiola cheese keto? Yes — low in carbs, high in fat. Keto-friendly in moderate portions.
Is Robiola cheese vegetarian? Usually not vegetarian — many versions use animal rennet. Look for "vegetarian rennet" or "microbial rennet" on labels.
Robiola cheese wine pairing: White: Arneis, Gavi, Sauvignon Blanc. Red: Barbera, Dolcetto. Sparkling: Franciacorta or Prosecco

Buy Italian Robiola Cheese

Robiola Cheese from Italy

You might also be interested in:

Must Try Wines from Tuscany, Italy

How to Read Italian Wine Label

Italian Pharmacy Skincare Must Haves

Affordable Italian Fashion Brands

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best cheese for Italian pasta? View Answer+

The best cheese for Italian pasta depends on the pasta dish and the flavor profile you want — but the overall most iconic and versatile choice is Parmigiano Reggiano - Parmesan cheese. Other top choices by use are Pecorino Romano ((used in Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe), Ricotta – great for stuffed pasta like ravioli or cannelloni, Mozzarella & Burrata – perfect for baked pasta or cold pasta dishes, Gorgonzola – ideal for creamy blue cheese sauces.

What are the best Italian cheeses for pizza?view answer+

Here are the best Italian cheeses for pizza, each adding a different texture, flavor, and melting quality: Mozzarella (Fior di Latte or Mozzarella di Bufala), Provolone, Parmigiano Reggiano, Gorgonzola, Ricotta, Scamorza (or Scamorza Affumicata – Smoked), Burrata, Fontina, Grana Padano

what are the best Italian cheeses for sandwiches?view answer+

Here are the best Italian cheeses for sandwiches, offering a delicious mix of meltability, flavor, and versatility — perfect whether you’re making a cold panino, grilled sandwich, or gourmet melt: Provolone, Mozzarella (Fior di Latte), Taleggio, Fontina, Scamorza / Scamorza Affumicata (Smoked), Ricotta, Pecorino Toscano (Young), Burrata, Gorgonzola Dolce, Asiago (Fresh or Medium-Aged)

How to store Italian cheese?view answer+

Wrap in wax paper or cheese paper and refrigerate. Avoid plastic wrap for soft cheeses. Hard cheeses can be frozen in portions if vacuum-sealed.

How long does Italian cheese last?view answer+

Hard cheeses last up to several months if properly stored. Soft cheeses - usually 5 – 10 days after opening.

italian cheese vs french cheese?view answer+

Italian cheeses are often more straightforward in flavor and are typically used as key ingredients in cooking — think Parmigiano on pasta or mozzarella on pizza. French cheeses, on the other hand, tend to be more complex, aromatic, and are usually enjoyed on their own as part of a cheese course, often with wine, bread, and fruit. The Italian tradition favors hard and aged cheeses, while the French are famous for soft, mold-ripened varieties like Brie and Camembert.