Penne with Parmesan, Fresh Ricotta, and Black Pepper

1. Cook Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. When the pasta is ready, drain it using a colander and set it aside.

2. Reduce Cream

Next, pour the heavy cream into a pot and heat it over medium heat. Watch closely as the cream begins to bubble and reduce by half. This reduction intensifies the cream's flavor, creating a rich and smooth base for your sauce.

3. Add Cheese and Pepper

Now, whisk in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and freshly ground black pepper. This combination will melt into the cream, forming a luscious sauce.

4. Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked penne to the pot, followed by the fresh ricotta, lemon zest, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir everything together and let it gently heat through, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Serve and Garnish

Finally, divide the pasta into serving dishes and top each portion with a dollop of the remaining ricotta. Finish with an extra sprinkle of black pepper to enhance the aroma and flavor. If you like a touch of sweetness, a light sprinkling of Demerara sugar can be added as an optional garnish. Enjoy your meal!