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Cacio e Pepe

Name: Cacio e Pepe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: {'ingredient': 'Spaghetti', 'amount': '400 grams'}; {'ingredient': 'Salt', 'amount': 'to taste'}; {'ingredient': 'Black pepper', 'amount': '2 teaspoons, freshly cracked'}; {'ingredient': 'Pecorino Romano cheese', 'amount': '150 grams, finely grated'}; {'ingredient': 'Olive oil', 'amount': '1 tablespoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Extra Pecorino Romano cheese', 'amount': 'for serving'}; {'ingredient': 'Fresh parsley (optional)', 'amount': 'for garnish'}

Cacio e Pepe, meaning 'cheese and pepper,' is a quintessential Roman pasta dish that embodies the heart of Italian cooking. Originating from the humble kitchens of Rome, this dish showcases the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with its minimal yet high-quality ingredients. Featuring spaghetti enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made from finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper, Cacio e Pepe transforms a simple meal into an indulgent experience. The magic lies in the technique—mastering the balance between the pasta and cheese creates a velvety texture that clings to each strand, making it a beloved comfort food for all occasions. Perfect for cozy dinners or elegant gatherings, this dish is a celebration of simplicity and flavor.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Spaghetti: 400 grams
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: 2 teaspoons, freshly cracked
Pecorino Romano cheese: 150 grams, finely grated
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
Extra Pecorino Romano cheese: for serving
Fresh parsley (optional): for garnish

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the freshly cracked black pepper and toast for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat with the pepper-infused oil, ensuring each strand is well-seasoned.
Remove the skillet from heat. Gradually add the finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese, tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Taste and season with additional salt if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Pecorino Romano cheese and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. For an elegant touch, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 10 minutes • Cook Time: 15 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 18g • Carbs: 62g • Protein: 16g • Sodium: 400mg • Sugar: 1g