Heart-Healthy Cacio e Pepe
Elevate your pasta night with this heart-healthy twist on the classic Italian dish, Cacio e Pepe! This recipe brings together the bold flavors of freshly cracked black pepper, nutty Pecorino Romano cheese, and zesty lemon, while using whole wheat spaghetti and low-sodium vegetable broth to keep things light and nutritious. A touch of olive oil and garlic adds depth, while parsley provides a fresh finish to this creamy and satisfying dish that's perfect for mindful eating. Ready in just 30 minutes, this guilt-free, comfort-food favorite is a must-try for anyone looking to combine indulgence with wellness.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 oz Whole wheat spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- 1 cup Low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons Chopped fresh parsley
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add 0.5 teaspoon of salt, and cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the freshly cracked black pepper to the skillet and stir for another minute to release its aroma.
Pour in the low sodium vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer.
Once the pasta is done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the broth.
Toss the spaghetti in the broth, gradually adding the grated Pecorino Romano cheese while stirring. Add reserved pasta water as needed to help melt the cheese and form a creamy sauce.
Stir in the lemon zest for added freshness and continue to toss until the sauce thickens and clings to the pasta.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then remove from heat.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your heart-healthy Cacio e Pepe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1533 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 101.0 g | 129% | |
| Saturated Fat | 52.3 g | 262% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 238 mg | 79% | |
| Sodium | 5386 mg | 234% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 70.1 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.7 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.5 g | ||
| Protein | 86.0 g | 172% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2507 mg | 193% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 1058 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
