What does gremolata taste like?
Gremolata tastes zesty, garlicky and fresh: finely chopped lemon zest, raw garlic and parsley, a sharp little topping that brightens rich, slow-cooked meat.
Gremolata
lemon zest, garlic, parsley
Gremolata is an Italian condiment made of just three things chopped fine: lemon zest, garlic and flat-leaf parsley. There's no oil or juice, so it's a dry, fluffy sprinkle rather than a sauce. The zest brings bright lemon perfume without sourness, the garlic bites and the parsley tastes clean and green. A spoonful on something rich and braised makes it taste lighter and more alive. Some cooks add olive oil, orange zest, anchovy or breadcrumbs.
Where you’ll see it
The classic topping for osso buco, braised veal shanks from Milan. You'll also see it scattered over short ribs, roast lamb, grilled fish, roasted vegetables and risotto, and sometimes listed as a lemon and herb crumb.
Order it if you like a hit of lemon and garlic on rich, braised meat.
Quick questions
- What is the difference between gremolata and salsa verde?
- Gremolata is a dry mix of lemon zest, garlic and parsley. Italian salsa verde adds olive oil, capers and often anchovy, so it is a loose, salty sauce.
- Is gremolata spicy?
- No. The raw garlic gives it a sharp bite and the lemon zest is zingy, but there is no chili in it.