Le cose più semplici della vita che ti portano felicità. The most simple things in life that bring you happiness.
For me, one of those things is definitely Cacio e Pepe. Pasta, cheese and pepper. Does it get much more simple?! How using humble staples of our pantries can be transformed into pure elegance is truly the magic of Italian cooking. This dish is suitable for a romantic date night, (especially if you want to impress) or can make it an easy kids dinner, whipping up in a matter of minutes that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
The key to truly simple dishes, such as this, is the QUALITY of your ingredients. I can't stress enough that you do not want to be using off-brand, shelf stable "parmesan" or powdery, finely ground black pepper (cringe) from the salt and pepper shakers for this. Call me a snob but I'm sticking to my guns on this one. Go to the store, get yourself a beauty of a hunk of aged Parmesan-Reggiano. Salty, cow's milk that will add creaminess and richness to your pasta. Suitable substitutes if you cannot get your hands on the Parmesan, would be Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano. Freshly cracked black pepper is ideal. If you don't have a pepper grinder, be sure to buy coarse black pepper. The larger granules will yield more of a bite and to cut the richness with the hint of spice.
Ingredients:
1/2 lb. Dried Pasta; spaghetti or bucatini
4 tbsp. Salted Butter
2 tsp. Cracked Black Pepper (plus more for finishing)
1 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (plus more for garnish)
Salt
2 tbsp. Olive Oil
1/2 Cup Reserved Pasta Water
Bring a large stock pot 2/3 way full with water to a rolling boil. Generously salt water with 1-2 tbsp. salt. Boil pasta as directed to al dente.
In a large skillet, melt your butter, olive oil and add cracked pepper. Add pasta and 1/4 cup reserved water, sprinkle cheese all over and fold over with tongs to coat all the noodles creating a sauce. If it seems too dry, gradually add the remaining reserved pasta water.
Plate your pasta and garnish with more grated cheese and black pepper; serve immediately.
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