Roman Pepper & Cheese Symphony

Cacio e Pepe, the quintessential Roman pasta dish, is a minimalist yet luxurious creation that showcases the magic of simplicity. Its name, meaning 'cheese and pepper' in Italian, perfectly encapsulates its essence. Traditionally prepared in trattorias across Rome, this dish is beloved for its silky cheese sauce and bold peppery bite. The method of emulsifying Pecorino Romano with starchy pasta water results in a creamy coating that clings elegantly to thick, al dente spaghettoni. With origins dating back to shepherds who relied on aged cheese and dried pasta for sustenance, Cacio e Pepe remains an enduring symbol of Roman culinary ingenuity. A perfect balance of richness and spice, this dish is a true masterpiece of Italian cuisine.

Time to complete

Prep

5min

Cook

10min

Wait

0 minutes

Total

15min

Ingredients (Makes 2 generous portions)
  • 300g (10.5oz) Spaghettoni
  • 200g (7oz) Pecorino Romano, finely grated
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Rock salt
  • 3L (12.7 cups) water
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 380
  • Fat: 12
  • Protein: 18
  • Carbohydrates: 55
  • Fiber: 3
Directions

Preparing the Pasta

  • 1. Bring 3 liters of water to a vigorous boil in a large pot. Generously season with rock salt until fully dissolved.

Cooking the Pasta

  • 2. Add the spaghettoni and cook until 2-3 minutes shy of the package instructions to maintain a firm al dente texture.

Toasting the Pepper

  • 3. Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add freshly cracked black pepper and toast for a few minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally.

Creating the Cheese Emulsion

  • 4. Place the grated Pecorino Romano in a bowl. Ladle in half a ladle of hot pasta water and mix vigorously until a thick, smooth paste forms.

Combining and Finishing

  • 5. Transfer the semi-cooked pasta directly into the frying pan with the toasted pepper. Add a cup of pasta water and stir continuously. If the sauce thickens excessively, adjust with more pasta water and pepper as needed.

Finalizing the Dish

  • 6. Turn off the heat and incorporate the cheese paste. Stir energetically to ensure the cheese melts seamlessly into a silky sauce. Toss gently for another minute until well-coated.
Cookix's Secrets

Bold Enhancement

  • Finish the dish with a drizzle of truffle oil for an aromatic depth.

Healthier Alternative

  • Substitute whole-wheat pasta for additional fiber and nutrition.

Pasta Cooking

  • Always salt the water generously to enhance the pasta's natural flavor.

Sauce Texture

  • Maintain constant stirring when adding cheese to prevent clumping and achieve a velvety sauce.

Seasonal Twist

  • Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or roasted zucchini for a seasonal vegetable addition.