The King of Italian Cheese: Parmigiano Reggiano

When it comes to Italian culinary treasures, few foods command the respect and reverence of Parmigiano Reggiano. Known as the "King of Cheeses," this iconic staple is more than just an ingredient — it’s a true expression of Italian heritage, craftsmanship, and tradition. At Nicola’s Marketplace, we proudly offer authentic 36-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano DOP from Mitica®, so you can bring the heart of Italy to your table.

What Makes Parmigiano Reggiano So Special?

Parmigiano Reggiano is a Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) product, meaning it can only be produced in select provinces of Italy — Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Bologna and Mantua. Crafted with just three ingredients — raw cow’s milk, salt, and rennet — the process follows strict regulations passed down for generations.

Each wheel is aged a minimum of 12 months, with many aged for 24, 36, or even 48 months to unlock deeper complexity. The result is a hard, crumbly cheese with savory, nutty, and slightly fruity notes. Its crystalline texture and rich umami flavor elevate everything from pasta to antipasti.

A Craft Honed Over Centuries

Parmigiano Reggiano dates back to the Middle Ages, when monks in the Emilia-Romagna region created it as a way to preserve surplus milk. Today, the process remains deeply rooted in tradition. Raw milk from local cows is delivered daily and processed within hours. The curd is formed in copper vats, then shaped into wheels, salted in brine, and aged on wooden shelves.

Each wheel is inspected and tapped with a small hammer to detect internal flaws. Only wheels that pass the Consorzio’s rigorous inspection are fire-branded with the Parmigiano Reggiano seal of authenticity.

How to Enjoy Parmigiano Reggiano

Parmigiano Reggiano is one of the world’s most versatile cheeses. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

• On Its Own: Break into shards and serve with cured meats, honey, or aged balsamic for a perfect antipasto.
  
  

• Grated Over Dishes: Sprinkle over pasta, risotto, soup, or roasted vegetables for a savory finish.

• In Cooking: Use in sauces, pesto, or fillings. Add the rind to soups or broths for added flavor — just remove before serving.

• With Wine: Pair with full-bodied reds like Barolo or Chianti, or even a sparkling Lambrusco.
  
  

Shop Parmigiano Reggiano at Nicola’s Marketplace

At Nicola’s Marketplace, we believe premium ingredients make all the difference. That’s why we offer a thoughtfully curated selection of Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses, including our bold and complex Mitica® Parmigiano Reggiano DOP aged 36 months. Looking to explore the range of flavors? Try our Taste of Italy DOP Parmigiano Reggiano Assortment to compare different age profiles side by side.

When you choose Nicola’s, you’re choosing authenticity, quality, and a direct connection to Italy’s most celebrated food traditions.

How to Store Parmigiano Reggiano

Wrap your wedge in wax paper or parchment, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, it can last for several weeks. You can also grate and freeze Parmigiano Reggiano for longer storage — the texture may change slightly, but the flavor remains intact.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just Cheese

Parmigiano Reggiano isn’t just a topping — it’s a legacy. Each bite tells a story of the land, the animals, and the cheesemakers who craft it. We offer an array of Parmigiano Reggiano varieties, each with its own distinctive character. 

For instance, our Di Solo Bruna variety offers a rich, buttery note, while the Di Montagna delivers a more robust, earthy flavor. Whether you prefer the balanced complexity of our 24-month or the intense, crystalline texture of a 36-month, there's a perfect choice for every palate.

At Nicola’s Marketplace, we’re honored to bring this remarkable cheese into your kitchen. Whether entertaining guests or treating yourself, Parmigiano Reggiano turns the everyday into the extraordinary.  Visit our cheese collection today and discover why this cheese is — and always will be — the King of Italian Cheese.