Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe

Spaghetti with Parmesan sauce and fresh pesto: A delicious and simple recipe

If you are a pasta fan, you have come to the right place! Today I will present a recipe for spaghetti with Parmesan sauce and fresh pesto, which combines the rich flavors of cheese with the freshness of herbs. It is a simple, quick, and, most importantly, incredibly tasty recipe. Perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends, this recipe will surely delight you.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

*For the pasta:*
- 300 g spaghetti
- 500 g Parmesan (preferably freshly grated)
- 1 liter water
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 30 g butter

*For the pesto:*
- 1 bunch of fresh mint
- 1/4 bunch of parsley
- 3 sprigs of basil
- 3 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Salt, to taste

Step 1: Preparing the Parmesan

To achieve an intense flavor, it is ideal to prepare the Parmesan a day before cooking. Grate the Parmesan on a large grater, then place it in a pot with 4 cups of water over low heat. Stir occasionally until the cheese begins to melt, then turn off the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. You will notice that it will settle into 3 layers: a thick cream on top, a flavorful broth, and a solid layer at the bottom of the pot.

Step 2: Preparing the fresh pesto

After letting the Parmesan cool, it is time to prepare the pesto. In a mortar, finely chop the mint, parsley, and basil. Add the lemon juice, olive oil, chopped garlic, and season with salt. Use the pestle to crush the ingredients until you obtain a smooth and aromatic paste.

Step 3: Cooking the pasta

Bring the liter of water in which you let the Parmesan cool to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. It is important not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook after you take them out of the water.

Step 4: Preparing the onion and garlic sauce

While the pasta is boiling, melt the butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients

When the pasta is ready, transfer it directly from the pot to the pot with the onion sauce, along with half a ladle of the Parmesan broth. Mix well to combine the flavors. As the sauce reduces, continue to add half a ladle of the Parmesan broth until the pasta is fully cooked.

Step 6: Finalizing the dish

When the pasta is al dente and the sauce has reached the desired consistency, add the previously prepared Parmesan cream. Mix well for less than a minute until all ingredients are well integrated. Season with grated Parmesan to taste, and don’t forget to add a bit of freshly ground pepper for extra flavor.

Serving suggestions

Serve the pasta hot, with a drizzle of fresh pesto on top and, if desired, sprinkle some more grated Parmesan. This spaghetti pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile; you can use any type of pasta you prefer: penne, fusilli, or even tagliatelle.

2. How can I store leftovers?
You can store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Can I prepare the pesto in advance?
Yes, the pesto can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover the surface with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent oxidation.

Nutritional benefits:

This spaghetti recipe is rich in protein due to the Parmesan, while the fresh herbs provide vitamins and antioxidants. Olive oil offers healthy fats, contributing to a balanced diet.

Ingredient details:

- Parmesan is a cheese rich in calcium and protein, which adds an intense flavor to dishes.
- Fresh herbs not only enhance the aroma but also provide health benefits, having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy effects and is an excellent source of monounsaturated fats.

Possible variations:

If you want to add a touch of originality, you can incorporate sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes, or you can add some chopped nuts to the pesto for an extra texture. Also, for a vegan version, you can replace the Parmesan with a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.

This spaghetti recipe with Parmesan sauce and fresh pesto is not only an excellent choice for a delicious dinner but also a way to enjoy the flavor of simple and fresh ingredients. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple and elegant recipe! Bon appétit!