Pecorino Romano cheese is one of Italy’s oldest and most distinctive cheeses, with origins dating back over 2,000 years to ancient Rome. Made exclusively from sheep’s milk, this hard, aged cheese was once a dietary staple for Roman soldiers and remains a cornerstone of central and southern Italian cuisine today. Produced primarily in the regions of Lazio and Sardinia, Pecorino Romano is known for its unmistakably sharp, salty, and savory flavor with a robust aroma and crumbly yet creamy texture when freshly grated.
Its name comes from the Italian word “pecora,” meaning sheep, and “Romano,” honoring its historic ties to Rome. Aged for at least eight months, the cheese develops a complex profile—salty and tangy with deep umami undertones—that enhances both traditional and modern recipes. It’s the quintessential finishing touch for pasta classics like Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara, and Amatriciana, and it lends incredible flavor to soups, risottos, roasted vegetables, and salads. It can also be shaved over grilled meats or paired with honey, fresh pears, or walnuts for a simple but sophisticated antipasto.
Because of its strong flavor, Pecorino Romano is best used as a seasoning cheese rather than eaten on its own, though true enthusiasts savor small pieces with wine or fruit to experience its full intensity. Its versatility and unmistakable character have made it a symbol of Italian culinary tradition around the world.
- Pairings: Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, or a crisp Vermentino.
Nutritional information coming soon