What is Casatella Trevigiana? Italy’s Creamy Delight

Meet Casatella Trevigiana, Italy’s creamy delight that has been tantalizing taste buds for centuries. Hailing from the picturesque region of Treviso in northeastern Italy, this soft, spreadable cheese is a testament to the area’s rich dairy tradition.

Crafted from whole cow’s milk, Casatella Trevigiana boasts a mild, buttery flavor with a hint of tanginess that leaves you craving for more. Its velvety texture and delicate aroma make it a versatile addition to any dish, from savory appetizers to decadent desserts.

Quick Facts About Casatella Trevigiana

Country of Origin	Italy
Region	Veneto; Province of Treviso, Venice
AOP	Since 2006
Classification	Fresh
Age	5 to 10 days
Milk	Raw cow’s milk
Milk Breed	Frisona, Pezzata Rossa, Bruna, Burlina (including crossbreeds)
Fat content	6%
Weight	Small: 7 oz to 1.5 lb (200 to 700 g); Large: 4 to 4.75 lb (1.8 to (2.2 kg)
Shape	Wheel, cylindrical
Size	Small: Diameter, 2 to 4.75 in (5 to 12 cm); Large: Diameter 7 to 8.66 in (18 to 12 cm)
Thickness	2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm)
Aroma	Delicate and fresh milky scent
Taste	Sweet, buttery, mild bitterness
Pairing	Local dry white wine (Torchiato di Fregona DOCG), sparkling wine (Prosecco Millesimato bisol)
Texture	Tender, supple, creamy,
Color	Soft white

What is Casatella Trevigiana?

Casatella Trevigiana is a delightful dairy gem hailing from the province of Treviso, nestled in Italy’s northeastern region of Veneto. This fresh soft cheese embodies Italian culinary tradition, lending a unique and creamy character to various dishes. Casatella Trevigiana doesn’t hide behind a rind; its beauty lies in its simplicity and freshness.

This cheese, made from whole cow’s milk, is a testament to the region’s rich biodiversity. The milk is sourced exclusively from local breeds including Frisona, Pezzata Rossa, Bruna, and Burlina, enhancing the authenticity of its flavor profile. As it matures, Casatella Trevigiana transitions from a compact dough into a creamy delight, melting effortlessly on the tongue and leaving an irresistible buttery note with a whisper of mild bitterness.

A special type of stracchino, Casatella Trevigiana is a traditional fresh cheese that has been cherished by the locals for generations. Its production is governed by strict DOP regulations, ensuring that only milk from the local area can be used, thus preserving the cheese’s regional identity and quality.

In 2008, Casatella Trevigiana was awarded the protected designation of origin (DOP), making it the first and only fresh and soft Italian cheese to receive this honor. This recognition further emphasizes the cheese’s cultural significance and its role in upholding Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage. Whether it’s enjoyed on its own, paired with a glass of wine, or incorporated into a gourmet recipe, Casatella Trevigiana promises a delightful culinary experience.

Casatella Trevigiana Tasting Notes

Texture: Casatella Trevigiana has a soft, creamy texture that is smooth and spreadable. It’s moist and velvety, melting effortlessly on the tongue.
Color: The cheese is typically white to slightly yellow in color, reflecting its fresh, pure milk origins. It lacks any rind, presenting an unblemished creamy surface.
Aroma: It exudes a delicate, milky aroma with a hint of fresh cream. The smell is subtle and inviting, not overpowering, suggesting its gentle flavor profile.
Taste: The primary flavor is mildly tangy and lactic, with a buttery richness that is characteristic of whole cow’s milk cheeses. There’s a faint bitterness that emerges as an intriguing backnote, adding complexity to its otherwise straightforward taste.
Aftertaste: The finish is clean and short, leaving a pleasant, slightly sweet aftertaste. This makes it a versatile cheese that can be paired with both savory and sweet accompaniments.
Pairings: Casatella Trevigiana pairs beautifully with Prosecco and other white wines from the Veneto region. It also complements fruits like strawberries and pears or can be used in a variety of dishes from pasta to desserts for its creamy, enriching quality.
Mouthfeel: Its high moisture content lends a refreshing mouthfeel. Despite its creamy nature, it doesn’t leave a heavy or greasy feel, making it an enjoyable light cheese.

Interesting fact: This cheese is easy to digest and is often recommended for low-calorie diets.

What Pairs Well With Casatella Trevigiana?

Food that goes well with Casatella Trevigiana:

Category	Food Pairings with Casatella Trevigiana
Bread/Biscuits	Baguette, Ciabatta, Crackers, Focaccia
Fruits	Strawberries, Pears, Grapes, Figs
Meats	Prosciutto, Salami, Mortadella, Bresaola
Vegetables	Tomatoes, Roasted Bell Peppers, Grilled Zucchini, Artichokes
Nuts & Seeds	Walnuts, Almonds, Pine Nuts, Sunflower Seeds
Condiments & Spreads	Honey, Fig Jam, Quince Paste, Olive Tapenade
Desserts	Dark Chocolate, Fruit Tarts, Panna Cotta, Cannoli
Seafood	Smoked Salmon, Grilled Shrimp, Marinated Anchovies, Seared Scallops
Pasta & Grains	Ravioli, Gnocchi, Risotto, Farro Salad
Herbs & Spices	Basil, Oregano, Rosemary, Black Pepper

Also read: 11 Best Crackers that Pair Well with Cheese

Beverage that goes well with Casatella Trevigiana:

Category	Beverage Pairings with Casatella Trevigiana
White Wines	Prosecco, Pinot Grigio, Soave, Chardonnay
Red Wines	Valpolicella, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Bardolino
Beer	Wheat Beers, Pale Ales, Pilsners, Belgian Tripels
Spirits	Grappa, Limoncello, Aperol Spritz, Negroni
Non-Alcoholic	Sparkling Water, Lemonade, Apple Cider, Herbal Tea