Dinner Diaries

Cacio e Pepe

From Rachel Ray.

In the cookbook this dish is described as, "a Roman dish that is as old as the city's seven hills." Now doesn't that sound romantic and yummy? Well it sounds that way, but certainly doesn't look that way. Spencer walked by the stove, took one look at dinner and immediately asked if he could have a hot dog. (He actually went on to say, "Cacio e Pepe??? I need Cacio e Pollo e Mooo e Oink Oink - such a funny man) I have to say that I was also skeptical. But I tried it and IT WAS WONDERFUL! I mean, really, really, good. It was soft and warm just like all of the comfort foods I love. Sadly, only Camille seemed to agree with me. She had two helpings. The boys wouldn't even touch it. Easton ate one bite because I made him. Unfortunately, I can't try that trick on the big one.

In one pot, cook spaghetti noodles.

In a large frying pan heat butter, olive oil and a big dose of black pepper. When noodles are done add a ladle of starchy noodle water to the pan. Drain noodles. Add to pan and toss. Slowly toss in a huge helping of fresh Parmesan cheese. Keep tossing noodles while cheese melts. Add more starchy noodle water if needed to make noodles creamy with cheese.

In a separate frying pan heat olive oil and garlic. Add one can of white beans. Add one package of drained frozen spinach. Add nutmeg (yes, nutmeg!) and salt and pepper.

The bean/spinach can be served beside the noodles or served on top. I mixed mine together. Not a pretty picture, but very yummy I promise.