Pre-grated Parmesan does taste rather like sawdust, doesn't it? I have to say I agree with you. I always have a chunk of Parmesan in the refrigerator and grate it fresh. The difference in flavor is really night and day!

As for Parmesan cheese, there isn't much that can compare with fresh Parmesano Reggiano from Italy. The last time we bought it the price was about $13.00/lb. But we never use a lot of Parmesan cheese in any one meal so the price doesn't hurt that bad.

I wish I could say that!!! I go through a lot of Pecorino Roman, Asiago, Fontinella, Fontina, etc. and the average price if between $9.50 and $11.50/pound.

But it's worth it because of the great taste! I don't care if the canned sawdust is $3.99 - I would never buy it!

Lol...the fresh grated cheese just seems to remind me of Olive Garden. When they shred the cheese on the salad. I almost always make them grate the entire block they have. Not only do I like a ton of cheese, but I like to see the look on their face....just waiting for you to say stop. :p

Until I got my husband that pepper grinder he wanted for Christmas, I didn't understand what the big fuss about fresh-ground pepper was! There's no going back for us, now, though. :p