Pink Cacio E Pepe is a fun twist on the classic pasta dish! It brings together creamy pink sauce, rich cheese, and pepper for a tasty meal that’s super comforting.
What I love about this dish is how simple it is to make, yet it feels fancy. Grab some pasta, toss in that vibrant sauce, and you’re all set for a cozy dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or bucatini are ideal for this dish. If you prefer gluten-free, you can use rice or chickpea pasta. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Pecorino Romano cheese: This cheese provides a tangy flavor. If unavailable, Parmesan is a good substitute, though it has a milder taste.
Heavy cream: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Tomato cream or crushed tomatoes: If you don’t have tomato cream, use regular crushed tomatoes or make your own by blending canned tomatoes. This will still create that lovely pink hue.
Edible rose petals: They’re optional but add a beautiful touch! If you can’t find them, consider using fresh basil or parsley for garnish instead.
How Do You Create a Creamy Pink Sauce?
Making a creamy pink sauce involves a few key steps to ensure the sauce blends well and remains smooth. Here’s how to do it:
- Toast the black pepper first to release its oils and enhance flavor before adding it to the sauce.
- When adding the cream and tomatoes mixture, keep the heat low to avoid curdling the cream.
- Gradually whisk in the cheese, stirring continuously. This creates a creamy texture. If the sauce becomes too thick, slowly add some reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.
These steps help maintain a rich and velvety sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta. Enjoy your cooking, and remember that practice makes perfect!
How to Make Pink Cacio E Pepe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti or bucatini pasta
- 1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup tomato cream or crushed tomatoes (for pink color)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Edible rose petals (optional, for garnish)
- Extra Pecorino Romano, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Pink Cacio E Pepe will take about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta, and another 10 minutes making the creamy pink sauce. It’s a quick and elegant dish perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your spaghetti or bucatini pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before you drain the pasta. This will help later in case your sauce needs a bit more moisture.
2. Toast the Pepper:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the freshly cracked black pepper and toast it for about 1-2 minutes. You want to smell its wonderful fragrance—this helps enhance the pepper’s flavor!
3. Make the Pink Sauce:
Next, add the unsalted butter to the skillet and let it melt. Pour in the heavy cream and either the tomato cream or crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together gently and allow the mixture to warm up, creating a lovely soft pink sauce.
4. Mix in the Cheese:
Now, it’s time to gradually whisk in the freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you find the sauce too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it’s the right consistency for you.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together carefully, making sure every strand of pasta gets nicely coated with the pink sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pasta beautifully on serving dishes. Sprinkle with extra Pecorino Romano cheese and add more freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If you’d like, you can garnish with edible rose petals for a stunning presentation.
7. Dig In!
Your Pink Cacio E Pepe is ready to enjoy! It’s creamy, peppery, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself to something special!
This recipe beautifully combines classic flavors with a modern twist. Every bite is deliciously rich and beautifully colorful. Enjoy!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier alternative, while gluten-free pasta can be used for those with dietary restrictions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Pecorino Romano Cheese?
If Pecorino Romano isn’t available, you can use Parmesan cheese, which is a great alternative. For a dairy-free version, consider using a vegan parmesan-style cheese that has a similar texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Pink Cacio E Pepe?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to bring back its creamy consistency.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure that your cheese is not made with animal rennet, and you can enjoy a deliciously rich dish without any meat ingredients.
