Pasta Romano
Pasta Romano offers a rich, creamy blend of Romano cheese, black olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, complemented by garlic and basil. This flavorful dish is ideal for a comforting dinner with bold Mediterranean flavors, perfect for cheese lovers and those seeking a savory, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the black olives into rings.
- Sauté the olives with sliced garlic and diced onion in olive oil until golden.
- Add white wine and chopped dried tomatoes to the pan.
- Let simmer slowly for 10 minutes.
- Add sour cream and heavy cream, season with salt, pepper, and basil, then simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Stir in grated Romano cheese until melted and well combined.
- Pour the sauce over cooked pasta immediately and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. You can also substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier taste. If you prefer a lighter dish, opt for half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Fresh basil can be replaced with dried basil, but use less as it's more potent. Pair this with a refreshing side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pasta Romano with a sprinkle of grated Romano cheese on top and a side of garlic bread for a delightful meal. A crisp green salad complements the creaminess of the pasta beautifully. This dish pairs wonderfully with Italian recipes like Italian Skillet Frittata or Italian Zucchini Crescent Pie for a themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or a little water to the pasta to help restore its creamy texture. Gently heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, to avoid separating the sauce.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Romano contains roughly 1918 calories, with 18g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 176g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (88% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2751mg per serving (120% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pencil point pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or fettuccine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that the Romano cheese you use is rennet-free if you want to keep it completely vegetarian. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onions. You can also mix in some chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for an extra kick without compromising the creamy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).