Cacio e Pepe

Here at Cocavo We love this simple Cacio e Pepe Recipe.
It requires only 5 ingredients! It’s also really quick & easy to make & packs a ton of flavour.

What is Cacio e Pepe?

Cacio e Pepe is a Roman pasta dish that translates to “cheese and pepper”. The simple dish consists of spaghetti, black pepper and Pecorino Romano with a little Turmeric Oil for added health and appearance.

Ingredients

Spaghetti, Turemric Oil, Black Pepper, Black Pepper Oil, Peccorino Cheese or the cheese of your choice.

Method

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and generously season with salt. Add pasta and cook until al dente.
  2. Reserve some pasta water and cool slightly.
  3. Drain pasta in a colander.
  4. Place skillet (or same pot used to cook pasta) over medium heat and add pasta back into pot.
  5. Add reserved pasta water and a little Turmeric Oil
  6. Toss together.
  7. Add grated cheese and black pepper and continue to toss together until sauce comes together and is smooth and creamy.
  8. Top with more grated cheese & a drizzle of Black Pepper Oil – serve.

Cacio e Pepe Variations

  • Pecorino Romano is a hard, Italian sheep’s milk cheese. It has sharp, rich nutty flavor, making it the perfect cheese for this simple pasta dish. If you don’t have it or can’t find it Parmigiano-Reggiano is a totally acceptable alternative.
  • Make this recipe gluten free by swapping out your favorite gluten free pasta.
  • Add a protein to the pasta like steamed mussles or grilled chicken.
  • Keep it vegetarian friendly, but bulk it up with some vegetables like steamed peas, beans or capsicum.
  • Bring some heat to the dish with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.