High Protein Cacio e Pepe
Elevate your classic Italian comfort food with this High Protein Cacio e Pepe—an irresistible fusion of traditional flavors and modern nutrition. Featuring chickpea pasta and a clever addition of whey protein isolate, this recipe offers a creamy, peppery sauce that’s both indulgent and packed with protein. Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses lend their signature tangy richness, while toasted pine nuts provide a delightful crunch. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a wholesome, high-protein meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re looking to fuel your muscles or simply enjoy a gourmet twist, this upgraded Cacio e Pepe is a must-try!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 250 grams chickpea pasta
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 100 grams Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 100 grams Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 30 grams toasted pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons whey protein isolate
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chickpea pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the freshly ground black pepper and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the pepper to lightly toast and become fragrant.
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Immediately add the drained pasta to the skillet with the toasted pepper and add the tablespoon of butter. Stir to coat the pasta.
Gradually add the reserved pasta water, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, and whey protein isolate to the pasta. Stir thoroughly to create a smooth and creamy sauce, adding more pasta water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.
Serve the pasta topped with toasted pine nuts for an extra touch of crunch and flavor.
Garnish with additional grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2291 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 133.3 g | 171% | |
| Saturated Fat | 48.6 g | 243% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 205 mg | 68% | |
| Sodium | 5967 mg | 259% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 159.3 g | 58% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 38.9 g | 139% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.9 g | ||
| Protein | 147.0 g | 294% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 2452 mg | 189% | |
| Iron | 21.7 mg | 121% | |
| Potassium | 562 mg | 12% | |
*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.
