The Pasta Lover's Secret Weapon: Pecorino Romano
If you're a fan of authentic Italian cooking, you know that the right cheese can make all the difference. While Parmesan is a kitchen staple, the KS Zanetti Pecorino Romano from Costco is your key to a whole new level of flavor.
Pecorino Romano vs. Parmesan: What's the Difference?
The main difference lies in the milk. While Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano) is made from cow's milk, Pecorino Romano is a hard cheese made from 100% sheep's milk. This gives it a distinctly sharper, saltier, and more pungent flavor profile. After being aged for over 9 months, it develops a deep, tangy taste that is more intense than Parmesan.
How to Use It in Your Kitchen
Pecorino Romano is traditionally used in classic Roman pasta dishes. Its salty bite makes it perfect for:
Cacio e Pepe: The foundation of this simple, yet incredible, dish.
Carbonara: The authentic cheese for this creamy pasta.
Aglio e Olio: A final grating over this garlic and oil pasta adds a perfect finish.
You can also use it to enhance soups, risottos, or simply shave it into thin slices to enjoy with a glass of bold red wine.
A Pro Tip for the Big Block
The large 575-g block is great value, but it can be a lot to get through. The best way to store it is to grate a portion and freeze it in a sealed bag. This way, you always have pre-grated Pecorino on hand for a quick weeknight pasta. The rest of the block can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the fridge for later use.
