Pasta with Egg and Cheese
Pasta with Egg and Cheese Recipe from Italy
Introduction
Pasta with Egg and Cheese is a classic Italian dish that is simple yet delicious. This recipe combines the creaminess of eggs and cheese with the savory flavors of pasta to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
History
This dish has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Rome, where it was a popular dish among the working class due to its affordability and simplicity. Over time, it has become a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people all over the world.
Ingredients
For 4
- 1 lb (454 g) long pasta (spaghetti, linguine, etc)
- 3 whole eggs
- 3 oz (85 g) or so hard cheese (grated, about 1.5 or 2 cups by volume of asiago, pecorino romano, parmigiano reggiano, or similar)
- olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper
- kosher salt
How to prepare
- Fill a pot with water, leaving about 3 inches of space from the top. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Take a bowl and ladle about 2 cups of boiling water into it to warm it up for later use. Add a generous amount of salt, approximately 0.25 cups.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and stir with tongs to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente, which means it should no longer feel sticky when you bite into it. Check the pasta frequently after around 6 minutes of cooking time. It is done when it feels done.
- While the pasta is cooking, grate the cheese if you haven't done so already.
- When the pasta is almost done but still slightly sticky, drain the water from the bowl and crack the eggs into it. Beat the eggs together with the cheese until well combined and there are no large streaks of yolk and white.
- Place a colander in the sink and drain the cooked pasta.
- Immediately transfer the drained pasta to the bowl with the eggs and stir vigorously with tongs. The heat of the pasta will cook the eggs into a sauce. Be quick to avoid ending up with clumps of cooked eggs instead of a smooth sauce.
- Add a good glug of olive oil, approximately 1.5 to 2 tbsp, and season with plenty of freshly ground pepper. Stir vigorously once more and serve immediately.
Serving suggestions
- This pasta dish pairs well with a simple salad. For a basic salad, place pre-washed baby spinach or spring mix salad leaves in a bowl. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and a few grinds of pepper.
- Roll a lemon on a table to release its juice. Cut the lemon in half and juice half of it into a small jar using a funnel. Remove any seeds with a fork. Add olive oil to the jar, using just under twice the amount of olive oil as lemon juice. Close the jar tightly and shake vigorously to combine the dressing.
- Dress the salad with the prepared dressing and enjoy your meal. You can pair it with a glass of wine or beer if desired, or simply have water if you prefer.
Variations
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor.
- Stir in cooked vegetables, such as peas or asparagus, for added nutrition.
- Top with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of freshness.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to ensure the perfect texture.
- Stir the pasta vigorously with the egg and cheese mixture to create a creamy sauce.
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh eggs and Parmigiano Reggiano, for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pasta with Egg and Cheese with a simple salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Stir the pasta quickly with the egg and cheese mixture to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use any type of long pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, in place of linguine.
- Substitute Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish is best served immediately after cooking, but you can prepare the egg and cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Pasta with Egg and Cheese in individual bowls garnished with freshly ground black pepper and a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Pasta with Egg and Cheese with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, or a crisp beer, such as a Pilsner.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Pasta with Egg and Cheese contains approximately 500 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Pasta with Egg and Cheese contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Pasta with Egg and Cheese contains approximately 20 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Pasta with Egg and Cheese contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.
Alergens
This recipe contains eggs and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Pasta with Egg and Cheese is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.
Summary
Pasta with Egg and Cheese is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
, and how it has stayed with me throughout the years.
I have always loved cooking, ever since I was a little girl watching my own grandmother in the kitchen. She used to tell me stories about where she learned her recipes, and I was always fascinated by the way she could create delicious meals out of simple ingredients.
The recipe for Pasta with Egg and Cheese is one that I hold dear to my heart, as it reminds me of my grandmother and the love she put into her cooking. I remember the first time I saw her make it, on a hot summer day in the small kitchen of her cozy farmhouse.
She had just returned from the market with fresh eggs and cheese, and I could smell the garlic and herbs she was sautéing in the pan. As she cracked the eggs into the pot of hot pasta, I watched in awe as they formed a creamy sauce that coated every strand.
I asked her where she learned to make such a simple yet delicious dish, and she smiled and told me about a trip she had taken to Italy many years ago. She had stayed with a local family who had taught her their traditional recipe for Pasta with Egg and Cheese, and she had been making it ever since.
The secret, she said, was to use the freshest ingredients possible and to cook the pasta just right so that it absorbed the flavors of the cheese and eggs. She also told me that the key to a good pasta dish was to always stir it with love and care, as it would make the meal taste even better.
As I grew older, I began to experiment with the recipe myself, adding my own twists and variations to make it my own. I would often invite friends and family over for dinner and serve them my version of Pasta with Egg and Cheese, always receiving compliments on how delicious it was.
I have continued to make this recipe over the years, passing it down to my own children and grandchildren. It has become a staple in our family, a dish that we always turn to when we want something comforting and familiar.
Every time I make Pasta with Egg and Cheese, I am reminded of my grandmother and the love she put into her cooking. I can still hear her voice telling me to stir the pasta with care, and I can feel her presence in the kitchen with me as I create a meal that brings joy to those I love.
I am grateful for the memories and traditions that have been passed down to me, and I hope to continue sharing this recipe with future generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, and I know that the recipe for Pasta with Egg and Cheese will always hold a special place in my heart.
Categories
| Italian Recipes | Pasta Recipes |