Orzo Cacio E Pepe

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat and season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir in the orzo and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or just until al dente. Strain, reserving 1 cup cooking liquid.

Meanwhile, place a skillet over medium heat. Toast 1 teaspoon of pepper until it smells spicy and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Turn the heat down to medium-low and add the orzo into the pan with the pepper. Add 1/2 cup of the remaining cooking liquid to the pan along with the Pecorino and Parmigiano and stir and toss vigorously until a creamy sauce forms, adding more pasta cooking liquid if needed.

Season to taste with salt and extra pepper if needed and serve immediately.