A Middle Eastern Twist On The Classic Italian Cacio E Pepe, With The Fragrant Flavors Of Za’atar And A Peppery Kick.
I decided to try something a little different with this Za’atar Cacio e Pepe – a classic Italian dish with a twist! Adding za’atar, the Middle Eastern spice blend, gives this dish an aromatic boost that my family can’t get enough of.
The combination of freshly ground black pepper, sharp Pecorino Romano, and the herby flavors of za’atar creates a harmonious balance that’s rich, flavorful, and comforting. It’s an easy meal to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. My family loves this recipe because it’s a new take on a beloved dish, and it’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something delicious without too much fuss!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While Pecorino Romano is traditional for Cacio e Pepe, you can substitute it with Parmesan or Grana Padano if needed. However, Pecorino gives it a sharper flavor that pairs beautifully with the pepper.
Q: What if I can’t find za’atar?
A: If you don’t have za’atar, you can make a simple version by mixing dried thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still give you a similar flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! This dish is naturally vegetarian. Just make sure to use vegetarian-friendly cheese if you prefer, as some Pecorino Romano cheeses are made with animal rennet.
Q: Can I use fresh za’atar instead of dried?
A: Absolutely! If you have fresh za’atar, it will be even more aromatic and flavorful. Just chop it finely before adding it to the dish.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: You can make this dish gluten-free by substituting the pasta with gluten-free pasta options. The flavor will remain just as delicious!
What You Need to Make Za’atar Cacio e Pepe
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (more for serving)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground za’atar (plus more for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved from boiling the pasta)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
How to Make Za’atar Cacio e Pepe
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Make the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the freshly ground black pepper and za’atar, and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the oil and spices. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until the pasta is well coated and the sauce begins to form.
- Add the cheese and butter: Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and butter to the pasta. Toss everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Add salt to taste.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with a little more black pepper and a sprinkle of za’atar for extra flavor.
Tips
- Cheese tip: Grate your own cheese for the best texture and meltability. Pre-grated cheese often doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Pasta water tip: The starchy pasta water is essential for creating the smooth, creamy sauce. Be sure to reserve it before draining your pasta!
- Extra zing: If you love more spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the black pepper and za’atar.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Sarah P. – “A fantastic twist on a classic! The za’atar really makes the dish pop, and the creamy sauce is perfect. I’ll be making this one again!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emily W. – “I love how simple this dish is to make! The za’atar gives it such a nice depth of flavor, and it’s so comforting. My family loved it!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 David L. – “This was delicious! The za’atar brought a whole new layer of flavor to the traditional Cacio e Pepe. I’ll definitely be adding this to my dinner rotation.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lisa M. – “A great recipe, though I used a little more black pepper than suggested for extra spice. It was a hit with my guests!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jordan S. – “This was easy to make and so flavorful! I love the combination of za’atar with the cheese. A new favorite in our house!”
Printable Recipe
Za'atar Cacio e Pepe
Za'atar Cacio e Pepe is a delicious and unique twist on the classic Italian pasta dish. With the aromatic flavors of za'atar and the richness of Pecorino Romano, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (more for serving)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground za'atar (plus more for garnish)
- For the Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved from boiling the pasta)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
Make the sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the freshly ground black pepper and za'atar, and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Combine pasta and sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the oil and spices. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until the pasta is well coated and the sauce begins to form.
Add the cheese and butter:
Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and butter to the pasta. Toss everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Add salt to taste.
Serve:
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with a little more black pepper and a sprinkle of za'atar for extra flavor.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Za’atar Cacio e Pepe, I’d love for you to share it with your friends and family! Recipes like this are perfect for sharing, and I’m sure your loved ones will appreciate a fresh twist on a classic Italian dish. If you share it on social media, don’t forget to tag me – I’d love to see your version of this delicious pasta!
