Cacio E Pepe Sauce is a traditional Italian pasta sauce made with pecorino romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water. A 1/4 cup (63 g) serving of this sauce contains 110 calories, making it a delicious and low calorie option for pasta lovers.

In addition to being low in calories, Cacio E Pepe Sauce is also high in calcium and protein due to the cheese. However, it's important to keep in mind that this sauce is high in sodium because of the cheese and pasta water.

If you're looking for a simple and flavorful pasta sauce that won't break your diet, Cacio E Pepe is definitely worth trying. Let's explore more about the ingredients, nutritional information, and how to enjoy this pasta sauce in this article.

What is Cacio E Pepe Sauce?

Cacio E Pepe Sauce is a classic Italian pasta sauce made with only three ingredients - pecorino romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water. The sauce is named after its two main ingredients: cacio, which means cheese, and pepe, which means black pepper. To make Cacio E Pepe Sauce, you first cook your pasta until it's al dente. Then, you save some of the pasta water and add it to a pan with grated pecorino romano cheese and black pepper. You mix the sauce until it becomes creamy and coat your cooked pasta with it. Cacio E Pepe Sauce is a simple and easy to make pasta sauce that has been enjoyed in Italy for centuries.

Ingredients of Cacio E Pepe Sauce

As mentioned earlier, Cacio E Pepe Sauce only requires three simple ingredients: pecorino romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water. The pecorino romano cheese is the star of the sauce and gives it a sharp, salty flavor. The black pepper adds a touch of heat and complexity to the sauce. And the pasta water is used to help melt the cheese and create a creamy, smooth sauce. You can easily make Cacio E Pepe Sauce from scratch with these simple ingredients, or you can buy a pre-made sauce at your local grocery store.

Calories in Cacio E Pepe Pasta Sauce

A 1/4 cup (63 g) serving of Cacio E Pepe Pasta Sauce contains 110 calories. This makes it a low calorie option compared to other pasta sauces that can contain up to 300 calories per serving. However, it's important to keep in mind that if you're watching your sodium intake, Cacio E Pepe Sauce may not be the best option since it's high in sodium due to the cheese and pasta water.

Fat Content in Cacio E Pepe Sauce

A 1/4 cup (63 g) serving of Cacio E Pepe Pasta Sauce contains 7 grams of fat. Most of the fat comes from the pecorino romano cheese, which is a higher fat cheese. However, the good news is that pecorino romano cheese is also high in calcium and protein, making it a healthier option than other high fat cheeses like cheddar or brie.

Protein Content in Cacio E Pepe Sauce

A 1/4 cup (63 g) serving of Cacio E Pepe Pasta Sauce contains 6 grams of protein. This is relatively high for a pasta sauce thanks to the pecorino romano cheese. Protein is important for building and repairing muscle, and can also help keep you feeling full for longer, making it a great addition to any pasta dish.

Carbohydrate Content in Cacio E Pepe Sauce

A 1/4 cup (63 g) serving of Cacio E Pepe Pasta Sauce contains 2 grams of carbohydrates. This is a very low amount of carbs, which makes Cacio E Pepe Sauce a great option for those following a low carb or keto diet. However, keep in mind that the pasta you serve the sauce with will contain more carbs than the sauce itself. So if you're watching your carb intake, it's best to serve Cacio E Pepe Sauce with a low carb pasta alternative like zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Benefits of Cacio E Pepe Sauce

Cacio E Pepe Sauce has several health benefits due to its simple and nutritious ingredients. First, the pecorino romano cheese is high in calcium, which is important for building and maintaining strong bones. Second, the cheese is also high in protein, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. Third, since the sauce is low in calories, it can be a great option for those trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Possible Side Effects of Cacio E Pepe Pasta Sauce

While Cacio E Pepe Pasta Sauce is generally safe and healthy to consume, there are a few possible side effects to keep in mind. First, since the sauce is high in sodium, it may not be the best option for those with high blood pressure or heart disease. Second, the cheese in the sauce can be high in saturated fat, which may increase your risk for heart disease if consumed in large amounts. Overall, it's important to consume Cacio E Pepe Pasta Sauce in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.

Ways to Enjoy Cacio E Pepe Sauce

Cacio E Pepe Sauce is a versatile pasta sauce that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. First, you can serve it with classic spaghetti or linguine for a traditional Italian meal. Second, you can use it as a dip for bread or crackers. Third, you can serve it with vegetables like roasted cauliflower or broccoli for a low carb option. Fourth, you can use it as a pizza sauce and top it with your favorite toppings. The possibilities are endless when it comes to enjoying Cacio E Pepe Sauce!

Making Cacio E Pepe Sauce from Scratch

If you want to make Cacio E Pepe Sauce from scratch, it's actually quite simple. First, cook your pasta until it's al dente and save some of the pasta water. Second, add grated pecorino romano cheese and black pepper to a pan with the pasta water and mix until it becomes creamy. Third, coat your cooked pasta with the sauce and serve. With only three ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have delicious Cacio E Pepe Sauce in minutes!