Microplane Classic 40020: A Fine Rasp for Citrus and Hard Cheese

Short answer

The black Microplane Classic 40020 is a focused choice for cooks who often want fine citrus zest for dressings or baking, or a light finish of hard cheese over pasta. Choose the single Classic with the hard plastic handle—not the separate Premium Classic range.

Its main trade-off is specialization. You gain a fine rasp, not a juicer or a coarse cheese grater, and another sharp blade needs careful cleaning and covered storage. If an existing fine grater already gives you the texture you want, this tool may add little.

Match the blade to your usual recipes

Think about the output before the brand. Fine zest can add citrus flavor without adding juice. Fine hard-cheese shavings suit a finishing sprinkle. Larger cheese shreds for a substantial batch call for a different grating surface.

Microplane lists a stainless steel blade, a hard plastic handle and a protective storage cover for this exact Classic model. Similar-looking Microplane tools do not necessarily have the same blade or handle. Check the Classic 40020 designation before ordering.

Zest is not juice

Zest is the colored outer layer of citrus peel. This rasp removes material from that surface; it does not collect the juice inside. A recipe that calls for both still involves two separate jobs.

Watch the peel as you work. A fine blade does not automatically keep you away from the white layer underneath. The source photograph shows the intended use, not a guarantee about your technique or results.

Fine cheese for finishing

This shape makes sense when you regularly finish a dish with finely grated hard cheese. It is not a substitute for every surface on a box grater. Choose according to the texture you need rather than expecting one rasp to handle all grating jobs.

Plan for cleaning and safe storage

Microplane warns that the blade is very sharp. Avoid direct blade contact during use and cleaning; do not slide your fingers over the teeth to clear food.

The manufacturer recommends hand washing. Its care guidance says to use the utensil compartment if washing the tool in a dishwasher, but we have not verified separate dishwasher instructions for the cover. Follow the supplied care instructions and replace the protective cover after use.

The exact-model page also carries a California nickel warning. Review that warning before buying if it affects your choice.

Check the exact Classic before checkout

Look for the black Classic 40020 single and confirm the included items. Do not assume a Premium Classic listing, set or different blade is the same product. Check current seller details, price and availability on Amazon.

View the Microplane Classic 40020 on Amazon

How we chose

This is a source-based guide, not a hands-on test. We checked the selected Amazon listing and Microplane’s exact-model description and care guidance. Precise dimensions are omitted because the sources differ. Photos come from those sources, not our testing.

Where to buy

Microplane Classic 40020 — Black, hard plastic handle, one zester

You often want fine citrus zest for dressings or baking, or a light finish of hard cheese over pasta.

Keep in mind: A fine rasp, not a juicer or coarse cheese grater. The hard handle and very sharp blade require careful cleaning and covered storage.

View on Amazon: Microplane Classic 40020 — Black, hard plastic handle, one zester (opens in a new tab)