why make this recipe
Cheese and pepper is a simple yet delicious dish that showcases the richness of cheese and the boldness of black pepper. It is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting meal any day of the week. The combination of freshly grated Pecorino Romano and cracked black pepper creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to al dente pasta. This dish is a great way to impress family and friends with minimal effort.
how to make Cheese and Pepper
Ingredients:
- Pasta (spaghetti or tonnarelli)
- Freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt
- Pasta cooking water
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet, add the freshly cracked black pepper and toast it over medium heat for about 1 minute.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix well with the pepper.
- Remove the skillet from heat and quickly add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese, mixing vigorously to create a creamy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve immediately with extra cheese and black pepper on top.
how to serve Cheese and Pepper
Serve Cheese and Pepper immediately while it is still warm. You can add more grated Pecorino Romano cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.
how to store Cheese and Pepper
If you have leftovers, you can store Cheese and Pepper in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
tips to make Cheese and Pepper
- Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano for the best flavor and creaminess.
- Toasting the black pepper enhances its flavor, so don’t skip this step.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; al dente is ideal for this dish.
- Mix quickly when adding the cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
variation
You can add cooked vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the dish for added nutrition. For a twist, consider incorporating cooked pancetta or guanciale for a meaty flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of Pecorino Romano?
Yes, you can use Parmesan or Grana Padano as alternatives, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian as long as you avoid adding meat.
What pasta works best for this dish?
Both spaghetti and tonnarelli work well, but you can also use any long pasta you prefer.