Cagliari, the vibrant capital of Sardinia, is a treasure trove of delicious food, rich history, and stunning landscapes. Recently, I had the pleasure of joining a press trip focused on the renowned Pecorino Romano PDO cheese.
Why Visit Cagliari?
Cagliari is a feast for all the senses. From its beautiful narrow streets adorned with plant-filled balconies to its baroque churches and stunning beaches, the city offers a perfect blend of culture, history, natural beauty and of course, cheese! Whether you’re exploring the bustling Mercato Civico of San Benedetto, enjoying the panoramic views from Bastione San Remy, or relaxing at Poetto Beach, there’s something for everyone in Sardinia.
The city’s food scene is equally impressive. Cagliari is home to fresh seafood, vibrant produce, and, of course, Pecorino Romano PDO cheese. Only a 2-hour and 15-minute flight from London, Cagliari is an easy destination to travel to for a long weekend.
What is Pecorino Romano PDO?
Pecorino Romano PDO cheese is a hard, naturally lactose-free cheese made from sheep’s milk. Recognised by the EU with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status since 1996, it is primarily produced in Sardinia, with smaller quantities made in Lazio and Tuscany. The cheese is known for its aromatic, salty, slightly piquant flavour when young and its intense, savoury taste when aged.
The production of Pecorino Romano is steeped in tradition, relying heavily on manual techniques perfected over centuries. Skilled artisans, known as “cheese makers” and “salters,” handle each stage of the process, ensuring the highest quality. Recent innovations have also led to the creation of varieties with reduced salt content, catering to modern dietary preferences.
Pecorino Romano is very versitile so keep reading for my wine pairing suggestions and cheese recipes:
For more information, visit Pecorino Romano.
Highlights from the Trip
Day 1: Arrival and Dinner
Our journey began with a flight from London Gatwick to Cagliari, followed by a warm welcome at Caesar’s Hotel. The evening set the tone with a delicious dinner, introducing us to the rich flavours of Sardinian cuisine with plenty of Pecorino!
Day 2: Cheese Making and Cultural Exploration
The next morning, we visited Caseificio Maoddi in Nuragus, where we delved into the art of cheese making. It was fascinating to learn about the meticulous process and the dedication required to produce Pecorino Romano PDO. Watching the skilled cheese makers at work was a highlight, and I gained a deep appreciation for the craft.
From there, we headed to Agriturismo Su Nuraxi for a hands-on pasta workshop. We learned to make Culurgiones, traditional Sardinian dumplings filled with potatoes, fresh mint, and Pecorino Romano, all enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce. This dish, rich in flavour and history, quickly became a favourite.
In the afternoon, we explored the historical sites of Barumini, including Casa Zapata and the G.Lilliu Centre. The ancient ruins and archaeological treasures offered a glimpse into Sardinia’s past, adding depth to our culinary adventure.
Dinner at Restaurant Bisu that evening was a celebration of Pecorino Romano PDO, featuring dishes that showcased the cheese’s versatility. From starters to mains, every course was a testament to the cheese’s integral role in Sardinian cuisine.
Day 3: Market Visit, Scenic Lunch, and Flamingos
Our final day began with a walking tour of the quartiere di Castello, Bastione San Remy, and the bustling Mercato Civico of San Benedetto. The market visit was a sensory delight, with stalls filled with fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
We then enjoyed a panoramic tour, culminating in a delicious lunch at Ristorante Frontemare Poetto. The meal featured more Pecorino Romano PDO, paired with fine local wines, making for a perfect conclusion to our culinary exploration.
After lunch, we visited Parco Molentargius Saline to see the flamingos. Cagliari’s salt flats provide an ideal habitat for these beautiful birds, attracting them in large numbers. Watching the flamingos in their natural environment was a magical end to our trip, blending nature with the rich cultural and culinary experiences of Cagliari.
Pairing Pecorino Romano PDO with Food and Wine
Pecorino Romano PDO is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various dishes and wines. Here are some of my top recommendations:
Pairings:
- Pecorino Romano PDO: Enjoy with a light, crisp white wine like Vermentino di Sardegna. The wine’s acidity balances the cheese’s aromatic and slightly piquant taste. An Albariño would work beautifully too, echoing the wine’s slight salinity. Pair the wine with a drizzle of honey and fresh thyme, and you can thank me later!
- Aged Pecorino Romano PDO: Pair with robust reds such as Cannonau di Sardegna, which complements the cheese’s intense flavour. You could also opt for heavy wines like Tannat or Monastrell, which will stand up to the cheese’s strong flavour. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze and some strawberries, and you will be in cheese and wine pairing heaven!
Culinary Creations:
- Culurgiones: Traditional Sardinian dumplings filled with potatoes, fresh mint, and Pecorino Romano, served in a creamy tomato sauce.
- Pecorino Romano Salad: Shaved Pecorino Romano over a fresh green salad with walnuts, pears, and a honey-balsamic dressing.
- Pecorino Romano Risotto: A creamy risotto made with Pecorino Romano, giving it a rich, tangy flavour.
- Pecorino Romano and Honey: Simple yet delicious, this dish features slices of Pecorino Romano drizzled with honey, offering a perfect balance of savoury and sweet.
Final Thoughts
Cagliari offers a unique blend of culinary delights, historical richness, and natural beauty. The city’s deep connection to Pecorino Romano PDO cheese is evident in every bite, and the local food and wine pairings are a testament to Sardinia’s gastronomic excellence.
Whether you’re a cheese lover, a wine enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates good food and stunning landscapes, Cagliari is a destination that promises to enchant and satisfy. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this Mediterranean gem – book your trip to Cagliari today!
