Pecorino Romano Cheese

Ovis aries (sheep's milk base) Dairy / Cheese

Pecorino Romano Cheese Dairy / Cheese

At a Glance

  • Category Dairy / Cheese

The Forktionary Angle

"Delving into the ancient origins of Pecorino Romano and its indispensable role in traditional Roman cooking."

Definition

A hard, salty Italian cheese made from sheep's milk, aged for at least 5 months, known for its pungent aroma and sharp, tangy flavor.

Milk Source 100% sheep's milk
PDO Status Protected Designation of Origin since 1996
Storage Life (Block) 6+ weeks refrigerated (tightly wrapped)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pecorino Romano Cheese are:

Salty sharp pungent tangy umami

Chef’s Secret

If your Pecorino Romano is too hard to grate, freeze it for 15-20 minutes, then use a microplane for fine, fluffy shreds.

Best Substitutes

Parmesan

less pungent, cow's milk
Ratio 1:1

Grana Padano

milder
Ratio 1:1

Asiago

different texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) stamp. It should be firm, with a slightly oily surface and a sharp, clean aroma.

Recipes Using Pecorino Romano Cheese

Occasion Savory Cuisine Main Ingredient

Better Than Olive Garden's Zuppa Toscana

Craving a creamy, dreamy soup bursting with Italian flavor? This copycat Zuppa Toscana recipe is BETTER than Olive Garden's! Savory sausage, tender potatoes, and hearty kale simmer in a rich broth, all without the hefty calories. Get ready for the most flavorful, comforting soup you'll ever make. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Preparation Preparation Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient

Pepperoni Rigatoni

Experience a flavor explosion with this cheesy, saucy Pepperoni Rigatoni! This comforting Italian-American classic is baked to perfection, creating a bubbly, golden-brown top. Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce – pure comfort food heaven!

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Easy Beginner Cook Asparagus Main Dish

Asparagus Beans Arugula Salad With Mustard Vinaigrette

This vibrant Asparagus, Bean, & Arugula Salad is a light and healthy masterpiece! Perfect as a starter, side dish, or elevated to a main course with grilled chicken, salmon, or scallops. Imagine tender asparagus spears, creamy cannelloni beans, peppery arugula, and a zesty mustard vinaigrette – all coming together in a symphony of fresh flavors. This crowd-pleasing salad is surprisingly easy to make, even perfect for a holiday gathering! The homemade vinaigrette can be prepared ahead, saving you time. Plus, the addition of microgreens adds a touch of luxury. This recipe was a potluck sensation – it disappeared in 10 minutes! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant salad.

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Onions 30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Fall

Baked Creamed Onions

This fantastic holiday side dish elevates simple onions into a creamy, cheesy, and subtly spicy delight! Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. We use a standard-size bag of onions (about 2 lbs) for easy preparation. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Time To Make Occasion Wedding Course

Barefoot Contessa's Italian Wedding Soup

Indulge in Ina Garten's comforting Italian Wedding Soup! This recipe, adapted from her "Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics," features tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful broth with spinach and pasta. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easily halved and frozen for future enjoyment. Get ready for a taste of pure Italian comfort!

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Meat Chicken Breasts Italian European

Baked Panko Chicken Parmesan

Crispy, juicy baked chicken parmesan – healthier than fried and bursting with flavor! This recipe skips the deep fryer for a lighter, healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Enjoy it over pasta, on a sub, or as a delicious appetizer. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Preparation Dietary Preparation Oven

Artichoke Quiche

This delightful artichoke quiche makes a light yet satisfying dinner, perfect for a weeknight meal. The creamy egg custard, combined with tender artichoke hearts and a blend of Romano and mozzarella cheeses, creates a flavor explosion in your mouth! Serve with a side of your favorite soup and a simple tossed salad for a complete and balanced meal. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

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Preparation North American Cuisine Main Dish

Baked Four Cheese Pasta With Tomatoes And Basil

Indulge in this irresistible Baked Four Cheese Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil! A creamy, cheesy masterpiece, perfect as a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course alongside a fresh salad. This recipe, inspired by Cook's Illustrated, delivers a restaurant-quality experience in under 40 minutes. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Diabetic Course European Meat

Tripe Alla Romana

Experience the rich, savory flavors of authentic Roman-style tripe! This Tripe alla Romana recipe, inspired by CookiesfromItaly.com, will transport you to the heart of Italy with its tender tripe simmered in a fragrant tomato and herb sauce. A classic Roman comfort food, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Prepare for a culinary journey that will leave you craving more!

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Preparation Ground Beef Cuisine Time To Make

Best Meatballs Ever

Experience a flavor explosion with these unbelievably juicy and tender meatballs! Our recipe uses simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions to create the best meatballs you'll ever taste. Perfect for a family dinner, game day, or any special occasion.

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Argentine 4 Hours Or Less Cuisine Main Dish

Argentine Style Stuffed Flank Steak

Experience the rich flavors of Argentina with this incredible stuffed flank steak recipe! Perfectly tender and bursting with savory goodness, this show-stopping dish is easier to make than you think. Marinated in a vibrant blend of spices and herbs, then generously stuffed with prosciutto, spinach, and a medley of vegetables, this impressive centerpiece is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey!

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Dinner Party Eggs Dairy Stove Top Equipment

Avocado Basil Pasta

This vibrant and flavorful Avocado Basil Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal! A creamy avocado sauce coats perfectly cooked pasta, tossed with crispy bacon, fresh basil, and a zesty lemon dressing. Enjoy it as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a refreshing pasta salad. This recipe, inspired by Better Homes & Gardens, is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress.

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Lunch 60 Minutes Or Less Potatoes Tomatoes

Baked Stuffed Tomatoes Topped With Mashed Potato

Indulge in these irresistible Baked Stuffed Tomatoes Topped with Creamy Mashed Potatoes! This recipe is a flavor explosion, combining juicy, savory tomatoes with fluffy, comforting mashed potatoes. Perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal or a special occasion. Learn how to achieve the perfect baked tomato – firm, flavorful, and bursting with goodness. We'll guide you through selecting the right tomatoes, prepping them for optimal results, and creating a creamy mashed potato topping that will leave you wanting more! Easy to follow instructions ensure a stunning and satisfying dish every time.

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Preparation Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Broccolini And Bucatini

This 30-minute recipe, inspired by Rachael Ray, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Even picky eaters will love this vibrant pasta dish featuring tender broccolini (or broccoli) and perfectly cooked bucatini (spaghetti or fettuccine work great too!). A simple yet flavorful sauce, tossed with cheesy goodness, makes this a complete and satisfying meatless meal. Serve with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a delightful dinner. Quick, easy, and delicious – get ready to enjoy!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Course Main Dish Pasta Rice And Grains

Authentic And Easy Pasta Carbonara

Whip up this incredibly easy and authentic Pasta Carbonara in just 25 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive, this recipe delivers rich, creamy deliciousness without the fuss. Say goodbye to complicated pasta recipes and hello to a crowd-pleasing classic.

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Preparation Chicken Time To Make Preparation

Baked Crisp Parmesan Romano Chicken

Craving crispy fried chicken without the guilt? This Baked Crisp Parmesan Romano Chicken recipe delivers the ultimate crunch and juicy flavor in a fraction of the time! Parmesan and Romano cheeses create a golden, irresistible crust, while a simple marinade ensures tender, flavorful chicken. A healthier, easier, and equally delicious alternative to deep-frying!

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Number Of Servings Healthy 2 4 Hours Or Less Low Saturated Fat

Baby Artichoke Carbonara

Elevate your pasta night with this vibrant and delicious Baby Artichoke Carbonara! Tender baby artichokes meet creamy carbonara sauce in a symphony of spring flavors. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for a romantic dinner or a special weeknight treat. Impress your family and friends with this elegant yet approachable dish!

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Time To Make Course Italian Beef

Beef Braciole

Experience the rich, savory flavors of authentic Italian Beef Braciole! This recipe guides you through creating tender, flavorful beef rolls, simmered in a vibrant tomato sauce with aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal.

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