Marinated Parmesan is a simple to prepare appetiser that is packed full of delicious flavours. Garlic, oregano and a little chilli combine with the Parmesan and Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and are perfectly complemented by slices of crusty bread. This easy appetiser will become a favourite!
You will love this recipe for Marinated Parmesan because:
- It is a delicious starter that comes together in about 5-10 minutes – they don’t come much quicker or easier than that.
- This recipe is bursting with garlic and other delicious flavours, and when paired with warm, rustic bread is irresistible!
- You can omit or swap ingredients depending on your taste or what you have on hand.
- Easily adjust the quantities to make a larger batch if you are feeding a crowd.
- It is a unique way to enjoy using Parmesan, which is such a quality ingredient.
Ingredients in this recipe:
Please see the recipe card further along in the post for exact quantities of ingredients and the full method.
Please see the recipe card further along in the post for exact quantities of ingredients and the full method.
Parmesan cheese – Parmigiano Reggiano is one of the most delicious, aged hard cheeses. You can read more about this amazing cheese on the official website. If you are unable to source Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano can also be used in this recipe.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – for the best flavour, we use Extra Virgin Olive Oil. As oil is the base of this dish, use the best olive oil that you can.
Garlic – a clove of garlic that has been minced adds a lovely flavour to the oil.
Chilli/Red pepper flakes – we love the heat of chilli/red pepper flakes. Use more or less, depending on how much you like the heat.
Spring onion/scallion – include the white bulb and some of the green.
Dried oregano – you could also use fresh oregano if you prefer.
How to Make Parmesan Bread Dipping Oil:
Please see the recipe card further along in the post for exact quantities of ingredients and the full method.
1 – Cut your Parmesan cheese:
Chop your Parmesan into cubes – roughly 1 cm (½ inch).
2 – Combine with your other ingredients:
Add the Parmesan and other ingredients to a bowl. Mix well. Allow the flavours to develop for 30 minutes.
Serve with your favourite bread.
Tips for Success and FAQs:
As this is such a simple recipe with very few ingredients, we recommend using the best quality products you’re able to find.
A good quality Parmesan cheese makes the difference in a recipe like this, where it is very much the star of the show.
Up to three days in the fridge, in an air-tight container.
Fresh oregano is also delicious in this recipe, and you could also use fresh chilli if you prefer.
The success of your Marinated Parmesan begins with the quality of the oil which you use. For the best flavour and nutritional benefits, use Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Wrap the cheese in cling wrap or place it in a ziplock bag. If using a ziplock bag, it is recommended to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Serving suggestions:
This delicious Marinated Parmesan is ideal to serve as a dipping oil along with your favourite bread – we love our easy Spelt Focaccia, but you could also serve it with Crostini or even Pita Chips.
Serve it as part of an antipasto platter with your favourite meats and dips, such as our Cannellini Bean Dip or Roasted Red Pepper Pesto.
I love a recipe that is simple to prepare but tastes incredible, and my Marinated Parmesan is definitely both of those! It is ideal for entertaining – you’ll be able to relax and enjoy this delicious recipe with your guests.Â
Let me know in the comments below when you have given this a try!
Alex xx
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Marinated Parmesan
Recipe Measurements:
For accuracy, when weights are provided, we recommend weighing your ingredients. This will produce the best results.
Ingredients
- 200 g (7 oz) Parmesan cheese – I use Parmigiano Reggiano See Note 1
- 1 clove garlic – minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon chilli/red pepper flakes – or to taste
- â…“ cup (75 ml) extra virgin olive oil See Note 2
- 1 spring onion/scallion
Instructions
- Cut your Parmesan into cubes – roughly 1 cm (½ inch).
- Add the Parmesan to a bowl, and add your remaining ingredients.
- Mix together and allow to sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavours to develop. Serve with fresh bread.
Notes
- Parmesan: use good quality Parmesan cheese – I use and recommend Parmigiano Reggiano.
- Olive oil: using a good quality Olive Oil is important for the success of this recipe.
- Recipe inspiration: I have adapted this recipe from one by Bill Granger from his book “Simply Bill”.
Nutrition Estimate:
Nutritional Disclaimer:
The nutritional information is an estimate only, and is derived from online calculators. For accurate results, we recommend calculating the nutritional information based on the ingredients and brands you use.
Sara
This recipe is not only unique, but delicious! I loved how it became a conversation starter when I served it at a party because everyone wanted to know what it is and how to make it.
Alexandra
Hi Sara, I am delighted to hear that you enjoyed the Marinated Parmesan. Thank you for taking the time to let me know. 🙂
Kristina
This was yummy! I usually only marinate mozzarella balls, so this was a nice change. I added extra red pepper, and it was incredible!
Alexandra
Hi Kristina, I am so pleased that you enjoyed the Marinated Parmesan. What a great idea to add extra red pepper! 🙂
Lara
We made this as an appetizer last weekend! My mother loved it!
Alexandra
That is great to hear, Lara – thank you! 🙂
Maria
Hi Alex! I made these as part of a charcuterie board and it was such a hit! The marinade is so simple and easy to make. It was perfect crusty bread and crackers. Thank you!
Alexandra
Hi Maria, I am delighted to hear that you enjoyed the Marinated Parmesan, thank you for letting me know. 🙂
Molly Pisula
Oooh, this recipe looks so easy and delicious. I would love to have this as part of an appetizer spread, or just to enjoy with a cocktail. Thanks Alex!
Alexandra
Hi Molly, thank you for your lovely comments regarding Marinated Parmesan. It would be ideal to serve with a cocktail. 🙂