Bring the comfort of Roman cuisine to your table with this Journey Foods twist on the beloved Trader Joe’s Cacio e Pepe. This version highlights classic flavors while letting you adapt with Journey’s recipe—making it hearty, simple, and delicious for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, bucatini, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp butter (Journey’s plant-based butter or regular)
- 1 cup finely grated cheese (Pecorino Romano, Parmesan, or a dairy-free cheese from Journey Foods)
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Salt for pasta water
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
- Sautéed peas or chickpeas
- Sliced mushrooms
- Crispy plant-based bacon or prosciutto alternative
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve at least 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
2. Make the Sauce
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cracked black pepper and toast for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Lower the heat. Using tongs, transfer cooked pasta to the skillet (don’t worry if some water comes with it).
3. Create the Cacio e Pepe Emulsion
- Add in 2/3 cup reserved pasta water to the skillet.
- Sprinkle in the grated cheese a bit at a time, stirring vigorously until a smooth and glossy sauce forms. Add more pasta water if needed for a creamy texture.
- Toss until pasta is coated. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from clumping.
4. Customize with Journey Additions (Optional)
- Add veggies or protein for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Gently fold ingredients into the pasta before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately topped with extra black pepper and a sprinkle of cheese.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Choice: Use finely grated cheese to ensure smooth melting.
- Pasta Water: This is crucial for thickening and emulsifying the sauce.
- Timing: Emulsify cheese off the heat for best texture.
- Journey Foods twist: Add in your favorite plant-based proteins or vegetables for a modern, nourishing spin on the Roman classic.
Enjoy!
