This is an easy and economical classic Italian dish to make any night, but especially on those days when you aren't eating meat dishes. Serve with your favorite sides.
1 lb. spaghetti or favorite long pasta
½ c. olive oil
1 T. coarsely ground black pepper
1½ c. freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
2 c. reserved pasta cooking water
In a large pot, cook pasta according to package directions in well salted (at least 1 T.) boiling water. Drain, reserving 2 c. pasta water; set aside.
In the same pot, add olive oil. Place back on the warm stove, but don't turn it on. Stir together the pepper and olive oil; add pasta; toss in cheese and about 1½ c. pasta water; combine until cheese has melted. Stir. Add more water, only if necessary.
Serve immediately with more cheese and a good drizzle of olive oil.
4 servings.