The Truth About Cheese and Health

Parmesan has a grainy texture and a nutty, buttery flavor that intensifies with age. It's higher in calcium and lower in sodium than many other cheeses, and one tablespoon of shredded has just 23 calories. Because of its sharp flavor, you can use less and still get a big payoff in taste. The aging process also lowers the lactose content, making Parmesan easier to digest if you have lactose intolerance. Try it in Fig-and-Arugula Salad with Parmesan (photo), Oven-Fried Chicken Parmesan,  and Buttermilk-Parmesan Mashed Potatoes.