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Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe: The perfect Roman delight

Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe

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Learn to make classic Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe, a simple yet delicious Italian pasta dish. This recipe focuses on creating a creamy sauce using Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add black pepper and toast for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet with the pepper.
  4. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta with the peppery water.
  5. Gradually add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese, a little at a time, tossing continuously. Add more pasta water as needed to create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti.
  6. Season with salt if necessary, keeping in mind the saltiness of the cheese.
  7. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Ensure your Pecorino Romano cheese is finely grated for a smoother sauce.
  • The key to a creamy sauce is to emulsify the cheese, pasta water, and pasta by tossing vigorously.
  • Adjust the amount of black pepper to your preference.

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