Although this satisfying sauce contains some very rich ingredients, its taste and simplicity make it a wonderful weeknight indulgence. Traditionally, Romans serve alfredo sauce over fettucine. You can also use farfalle (bow ties) or spinach fusilli (tight spirals) and have marvelous results. This dish is definitely substantial enough to stand on its own. When using it as a first course, serve it in very small quantities before serving a lean grilled or roasted type of beef, veal, chicken, lamb, or seafood. Once you’ve mastered this classic, try adding smoked salmon and cooked broccoli and serving it with farfalle.

Ingredients:

1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated parmigiano reggiano or pecorino romano cheese
Handful of freshly chopped Italian parsley
Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Preparation:

Melt butter and cream together over low heat in a medium saucepan. When butter is melted, take it off the heat. Whisk in the cheese until smooth. Add black pepper, stir, and add parsley. Combine with pasta and enjoy!