Cacio e Pepe + a Wine Pairing
a staple pasta and wine pairing
As we ease into a new season and enjoy the early fall days that start with overcast and crisp mornings followed by bright blue skies by midday, I wanted to pay tribute to one of my favorite trios: food, wine, and sunshine.
To celebrate the slower season without quite letting go of the warmth of summer, a bowl of pasta generously finished with Pecorino Romano, and a glass of fizzy Pet Nat to toast with!
Stay safe and enjoy the crushing leaves under your feet!
Carly
Cacio e Pepe
Serves 4
Ingredients
2 lbs fava beans *
12 oz. thin spaghetti or bucatini
1 Tbsp sea salt
5 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1 ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano
1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1 Tbsp fresh ground black pepper
Olive oil
Method
Remove fava beans from their shells. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the beans and cook for 20 minutes. Remove from the pot and place beans into an ice bath. Once cooled, remove from the outer layer.
Bring another large pot of water to boil. Season with sea salt then add pasta and cook until almost al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water.
Add 4 Tbsp of butter to a large pan and melt over medium heat. Add pepper, 1 cup Pecorino, and 1 cup Parmigiano. Stir until the cheese begins to melt. Add ½ cup pasta water and bring to a simmer. Add pasta and remaining butter. Stir until the pasta is well coated, adding pasta water as needed.
Stir in fava beans. Plate and finish with remaining Pecorino and a generous sprinkle of pepper.
Notes
* Fava beans are glorious in late summer but if they are not easily found in your region or you missed the season, this recipe is also great with lima beans or fresh green peas.
About the wine pairing
We love this pasta with a Pet-Nat (pétillant natural, which translates to naturally sparkling) because of its bright acid and bubbles, which cut the fat and saltiness of the parmesan cheese. They are playful and super drinkable, making it a perfect pairing for a more dressed up pasta. An Italian Vermentino or Frappato would also be great options for this pasta!
Enjoy!
