These can be frozen, thawed, and then sliced and baked when company arrives.

Whisk together in a bowl:

1 1/2cups finely grated parmesan cheese
3/4cup all-purpose flour
1teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
3/4teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

Add and cut in with 2 knives or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs:

4tablesponns(1/2stick) cold butter, cut into small pieces

Make a well in the center and add:

1 1/2tablespoons water
1teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Stir with a fork just until the mixture forms a dough. Briefly knead the dough just until combined.Transfer to a sheet of wax paper and,using the way paper as an aid, shape it into a squared-off log,about 11inches long. Wrap in the way paper and refrigerate until firm enough to slice,about 1hour.(The dough can be prepared up to this point 2days in advance,)

Preheat the oven to 375°Ｆ

Cut the dough into 1/4-inch-thick slices and arrange 1inch apart on baking sheets. Bake one sheet at a time until the crackers are golden around the edges,about 10minutes. Transfer carefully with a spatula to a rack and let cool completely.

Sprinkle with:Coarsely ground black pepper.