What is Squacquerone di Romagna? A Taste of Italian Tradition

Welcome to a journey into the heart of Italian gastronomy, where we unravel the secrets of one of Italy’s hidden culinary treasures – Squacquerone di Romagna. This soft, creamy cheese is as much a part of Italy’s rich cultural tapestry as the Colosseum or Da Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’.
Originating from the Emilia-Romagna region, known as Italy’s ‘food valley’, Squacquerone di Romagna is a testament to the country’s age-old love affair with artisanal food production.
Quick Facts About Squacquerone di Romagna
Country of Origin | Italy |
Region | Emilia-Romagna |
Classification | Fresh cheese, soft |
AOP/PDO | Since 2012 |
Milk | Raw cow’s milk |
Diameter | 2.35 to 9.75 inches (6 to 25 cm) |
Thickness | 0.75 to 2 inches (2 to 5 cm) |
Weight | 3.5 oz to 4.5 lb (100 g to 2 kg) |
Fat content | 8% |
Aroma | Mild, citrusy, herbal |
Taste | Sweet, sour, slight saltiness that gives way to a fresh herbaceous flavor on the finish |
Pairing | Piadina (flatbread) with rucola & prosciutto, risotto, caramelized figs |
Texture | Creamy, flowing, spreadable |
Color | White |
What is Squacquerone di Romagna?

Dive into the world of Italian gastronomy and you’ll find an array of culinary gems, one of which is Squacquerone di Romagna. This creamy, soft cheese hails from the heart of Italy’s Romagna region, a place known for its fertile lands and rich food culture.
Squacquerone di Romagna is no ordinary cheese. Its texture is beautifully soft and spreadable, almost like a thick cream, and it boasts a delightfully fresh, tangy flavor that is reminiscent of the lush pastures of its homeland. It’s made from cow’s milk, with a cheese-making process that stays true to age-old traditions, lending it an authenticity that’s hard to replicate.
What sets Squacquerone di Romagna apart is its versatility. It’s a star in its own right on a cheese platter, but it also shines when used in cooking. From serving as a delightful topping on the traditional Piadina flatbread, to being a key ingredient in gourmet pasta dishes, the applications of this cheese are as vast as they are delicious.
Squacquerone di Romagna is more than just a cheese. It’s a testament to the region’s commitment to maintaining its culinary heritage, a symbol of the passion and craftsmanship of the local cheese makers. It’s a sensory journey into the very soul of Romagna, offering a taste of the Italian countryside with every bite.
Squacquerone di Romagna Tasting Notes
- Texture: Squacquerone di Romagna is known for its soft, creamy and spreadable texture. It has a consistency that is almost like a thick cream or yogurt, making it a delight to spread on breads or crackers.
- Color: The cheese has a clean, white hue, indicating its freshness and pure dairy origin. Its color can range from bright white to a slightly off-white, depending on the specific batch and aging process.
- Aroma: This cheese emits a fresh, milky aroma. There’s a subtle hint of tanginess in the scent, reminiscent of the lactic fermentation process it undergoes during production.
- Flavor: Squacquerone di Romagna is celebrated for its mild, yet slightly tangy flavor. It has a fresh taste with a delicate sweetness, and a pleasant acidity that adds a touch of complexity to its overall flavor profile.
- Aftertaste: The cheese leaves a light and refreshing aftertaste. The lingering mild tanginess encourages another bite, making it an addictive addition to any cheese platter.
- Mouthfeel: In the mouth, Squacquerone di Romagna feels luxuriously smooth and creamy. It melts delightfully on the tongue, releasing its full array of flavors in a satisfying culinary experience.
What Pairs Well With Squacquerone di Romagna?
Food that goes well with Squacquerone di Romagna:
Category | Food Items |
---|---|
Breads | Piadina Romagnola, Focaccia, Ciabatta, Sourdough Bread, Whole Grain Bread |
Fruits | Figs, Pears, Grapes, Strawberries, Apples |
Nuts | Almonds, Walnuts, Pistachios, Hazelnuts |
Meats | Prosciutto di Parma, Salame Rosa, Mortadella, Bresaola |
Condiments | Honey, Fig Jam, Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar |
Vegetables | Grilled Eggplant, Sun-dried Tomatoes, Roasted Bell Peppers, Olives |
Desserts | Fruit Tarts, Cannoli, Panna Cotta, Italian Pastries |
Seafood | Smoked Salmon, Grilled Prawns, Marinated Anchovies |
Also read: What Fruit Goes on a Charcuterie Board?
Beverage that goes well with Squacquerone di Romagna:
Beverage Category | Beverage Items |
---|---|
White Wines | Verdicchio, Trebbiano, Pignoletto, Passerina |
Red Wines | Sangiovese, Lambrusco, Barbera, Nebbiolo |
Sparkling Wines | Prosecco, Franciacorta, Lambrusco Grasparossa |
Beers | Italian Lager, Wheat Beer, Blonde Ale |
Non-Alcoholic Drinks | Sparkling Water, Fresh Pear Juice, Apple Cider |
Spirits | Grappa, Limoncello, Aperol Spritz |
Also read: Top 10 Champagne & Cheese Pairings to Try at Least Once
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