Servings: 2 Servings
Calories: 392kcal
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter cut into 1-tablespoon pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked coarse black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 ounces dry pasta
- 2 ounces finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your dry pasta. You want to cook it until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before you drain it!
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- While the pasta is boiling, heat the butter and olive oil together in a pan over medium heat. You’ll want to introduce the black pepper here.
- As the butter melts, you should let the pepper toast slightly. This step enhances its flavor, giving your sauce an aromatic base. Keep it moving in the pan for about a minute.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Once your pasta is ready and drained, add it directly to the pan with the butter and pepper mixture. This should be done while the pasta is still very hot. Stir well to coat the pasta with that buttery spice mix.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Stir
- Now, sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano over your pasta. Mix thoroughly. With the heat of the pasta, the cheese will start to melt, transforming into a beautiful sauce.
- This is where the reserved pasta water comes into play. If needed, add a splash to help the sauce come together, creating a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
- Give it a taste test. This is your moment to adjust seasonings. If you’d like, add more cheese or that fresh cracked pepper. Once perfected, serve immediately. Garnishin
Notes
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The best flavors come from quality cheese and fresh pasta. Seek high-quality Pecorino Romano for the best outcome.
- Don’t Skip the Starch: Save some of that pasta water! It’s key to achieving that creamy texture.
- Gently Toast the Pepper: Toasting enhances flavor, making each bite more delightful.
- Serve Right Away: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. As it sits, the sauce may thicken too much.
- Experiment with Textures: If you like a thicker sauce, feel free to add more cheese or pasta water.
Nutrition
Serving: 101g | Calories: 392kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 26.8g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 606mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g
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