CACIO E PEPE E ZUCCA

Cacio e Pepe e Zucca image

Provided by Jeff Mauro, host of Sandwich King

Time 20m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 6

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 pound spaghetti
1 1/2 cups finely grated Pecorino-Romano, plus additional for serving
1 1/2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns, lightly toasted and ground
2 tablespoons heavy cream
3 tablespoons pumpkin puree

Steps:

Place 2 quarts water in a pot and bring to a boil. Salt the water and boil the pasta, stirring frequently, until al dente. Set a strainer over a large heatproof measuring cup in the sink and carefully drain the pasta, reserving 2 cups of pasta water.
Place the Pecorino-Romano in a large bowl and add 1 cup pasta water to the cheese while whisking vigorously. Add the toasted pepper, cream and pumpkin and whisk. Toss in the spaghetti to coat. Season with salt and add additional pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional freshly ground black pepper and freshly grated cheese.