Cheese lovers around the world recognize locatelli pecorino romano as one of the most authentic and flavorful hard Italian cheeses. Its sharp, salty profile and deep culinary roots make it a kitchen staple — from grating over pasta to enhancing salads and sauces. But what makes it so special, and how can you best enjoy this classic cheese? In this comprehensive guide, we dive into its history, taste, nutrition, culinary uses, authenticity, and real-world examples of great recipes.
What is Locatelli Pecorino Romano?
Locatelli Pecorino Romano is a traditional Italian cheese made from 100% pasteurized sheep’s milk. It carries the name Pecorino Romano, a protected designation of origin (PDO), meaning all production steps — from milk sourcing to aging — must occur in approved regions of Italy including Lazio, Sardinia, and Grosseto. This ensures that every wedge labeled pecorino romano — including Locatelli — meets strict quality standards rooted in centuries of cheesemaking history.
Unlike soft or mild cheeses, locatelli pecorino romano is very hard, crumbly, and intensely savory, making it ideal for grating over dishes such as cacio e pepe or pasta puttanesca.
History and Cultural Roots of Pecorino Romano
The story of locatelli pecorino romano dates back more than 2,000 years to ancient Rome, where Pecorino Romano was a staple in the diets of legionnaires due to its long shelf life and high energy value. The name pecorino comes from pecora, which means sheep in Italian — highlighting the sheep’s milk that defines this cheese.
Although it originated near Rome, production eventually shifted primarily to Sardinia, where conditions are ideal for sheep grazing and traditional maturation processes. Today, pecorino romano is one of Italy’s most exported cheeses, respected for its authentic flavor and culinary versatility.
Taste Profile and Texture of Locatelli Pecorino Romano
This cheese’s flavor is bold, salty, and slightly tangy — sharper than many cow’s milk cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano. Because it’s aged at least five months, enzymatic changes break down fats and proteins, creating complex savory notes that pair wonderfully with simple Italian dishes.
The texture is firm and crumbly, perfect for grating or shaving with a microplane or knife. As the cheese ages longer, its flavor intensifies — making aged wedges especially prized by chefs and home cooks alike.
Nutrition Facts and Health Snapshot
Locatelli Pecorino Romano is more than just flavor — it packs nutritional value too:
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 oz (28g) |
| Calories | ~110 kcal |
| Protein | ~7–8g |
| Fat | ~9g (6g saturated) |
| Sodium | ~480mg |
| Calcium | ~15–20% DV |
This cheese is a good source of high-quality protein and calcium, essential for muscle and bone health. However, its high sodium and saturated fat content mean moderation is key — especially for people managing blood pressure or cholesterol.
Authenticity and How Locatelli is Made
Producing true locatelli pecorino romano sticks closely to tradition. Its ingredient list is straightforward: 100% sheep’s milk, cultures, rennet, and salt — no fillers or artificial additives. The milk is curdled with traditional lamb rennet and salted by hand, a key step that draws out moisture and deepens flavor.
This purity protects the cheese’s unique identity and distinguishes it from lesser imitations. For maximum authenticity, always look for PDO-labeled cheese and trusted brands.
Culinary Uses — From Pasta to Salads
🍝 Classic Italian Pasta Dishes
One of the most iconic uses of locatelli pecorino romano is grating it over pasta dishes. For example:
- Pasta Puttanesca with Locatelli Pecorino Romano features a bold tomato, olive, and caper sauce, finished with freshly grated cheese for extra zest.
- A simple Pecorino Romano pesto mixes basil, garlic, nuts, olive oil, and cheese for a salty, herbaceous sauce.
🥗 Salads and Sides
Shaved or grated, this cheese adds instant flavor to salads like a Caesar salad — anchovies, romaine, croutons, and a generous dusting of locatelli pecorino romano.
🍕 Beyond Pasta
Its sharp tang enhances pizzas, soups, gratins, and even risottos — proving this cheese’s flexibility extends far beyond Italian classics.
Discover exclusive content from Urbaneditorial
Real Case Example — Home Cook Chef Marco’s Dinner Success
Chef Marco — a home cook from Naples — shared how switching to locatelli pecorino romano transformed his weeknight meals:
“I used Locatelli Pecorino Romano on my pasta puttanesca one night, and the dish suddenly tasted properly Italian — sharp, salty, and balanced. My family asked for seconds and now I always keep a wedge in the fridge.”
This anecdote reflects what many home cooks report: authentic Pecorino Romano significantly elevates dishes compared to generic cheese blends because of its depth of flavor.
Buying and Storing Locatelli Pecorino Romano
When purchasing, look for a firm expressive label like Locatelli’s — a trusted brand known worldwide. Cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped first in parchment to allow breathing, then sealed in plastic or a container to prevent drying. Properly stored, a cut wedge lasts several weeks.
Holiday or Everyday — When to Use This Cheese
Whether it’s a simple weeknight pasta or a festive holiday meal, locatelli pecorino romano adds depth and character to dishes. Its intense flavor pairs well with bold sauces and simple dressings alike.
FAQs
- What makes locatelli pecorino romano different from Parmesan?
Locatelli Pecorino Romano is made from sheep’s milk and has a sharper, saltier taste compared to cow’s milk Parmesan. - Is Pecorino Romano healthy?
It’s rich in protein and calcium, but high in sodium and saturated fats — so enjoy it in moderation. - How should I grate Locatelli Pecorino Romano?
Use a microplane or fine grater to sprinkle it over pasta or salads for best flavor distribution. - Can lactose-intolerant people eat this cheese?
Aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano generally contain less lactose, but tolerances vary — try a small amount first. - Where is Locatelli Pecorino Romano made?
True Locatelli is made in Italy’s PDO regions like Sardinia and Lazio, following traditional methods.
Conclusion
From its ancient Roman roots to modern kitchens worldwide, locatelli pecorino romano remains one of the most iconic and flavorful Italian cheeses. Packed with protein, rich in taste, and versatile across recipes, it deserves a place in every cook’s pantry — especially if you love bold, authentic cheese. Use it grated, shaved, or even as a finishing touch in unique dishes to celebrate the heritage and bold flavor of Italian culinary tradition.