There are hundreds of different cheeses produced in Italy’s various regions, but Grana Padano is by far one of the most famous worldwide. It shares similarities with Parmesan but has notable differences and is a key ingredient in many of the country’s popular dishes.

This collection of Grana Padano recipes will show you how easy it is to cook with. Put the cheese centre stage by baking them into Savoury Grana Padano biscotti and Cheese straws with pistachios, or generously grate it over Spaghetti with toasted breadcrumbs and gremolata. Grana Padano also works very well in salads, as Cristina Bowerman’s Smoked duck breast salad with Grana Padano sauce, hazelnuts and bonito proves. Try using the cheese as a seasoning, like in this Crispy chicken thighs with Grana Padano breadcrumbs recipe, or use it to add umami flavour to pizza, as Franco Pepe does with his ‘Tomato whim’ pizza.

When using Grana Padano in cooking, remember that it comes in three different ages, each with its own unique flavour profile. Choose the right one to suit your dish.