Classic Spaghetti with Cheese and Black Pepper (Cacio e Pepe)

Ingredients:

• 450 g spaghetti
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp coarsely ground black pepper + extra for serving
• 2.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese + extra for serving

Preparation:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions. Drain, reserving 2 tablespoons of the water.
2. In a large heavy-bottomed skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the peppercorns and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 1-2 minutes. Add the pasta and 1.5 cups of the cooking water and toss. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese and toss until the pasta is coated. Adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed by adding a little more of the cooking water, season with salt to taste, and sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese and black pepper, if desired.