Description
This creamy and flavorful Cacio e Pepe Pasta features plant-based cheese and simple ingredients for a quick, satisfying dinner. Combining the sharpness of cheese (plant-based), the bite of freshly ground black pepper, and a luscious sauce with a natural gelling agent, this classic Italian dish is both rustic and elegant, perfect for pasta lovers and beginners alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 200g dried spaghetti
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water
Sauce
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 100g shredded plant-based cheese (sharp, tangy)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve about one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining to keep it starchy for the sauce.
- Toast the Pepper: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil. Add plenty of freshly ground black pepper and toast gently to release its vibrant aroma, making sure not to burn it.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat and add the shredded plant-based cheese gradually, stirring in about half a cup of reserved pasta water little by little. Continuously stir to combine into a smooth, silky sauce, adding the natural gelling agent for texture.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Transfer the drained spaghetti into the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat every strand with the creamy, peppery sauce. Add additional pasta water if the sauce appears too thick.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in a splash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) for depth. Adjust seasoning with salt and more black pepper if needed. Serve immediately to enjoy the best creamy texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
- Always reserve some pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.
- Add shredded plant-based cheese slowly to avoid clumping.
- Keep heat low when melting cheese to prevent separation.
- Serve the pasta immediately for best results.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cacio e Pepe, Plant-Based Pasta, Italian, Quick Dinner, Creamy Pasta, Peppery Sauce
