Discovering the Flavorful Journey of Marina Alex’s Pasta alla Zozzona: An LPGA Favorite

By: Jessica Marksbury
Published: May 18, 2025

Pasta is often regarded as a comfort food, and for Marina Alex — a revered veteran of the LPGA Tour — it has transformed into an avenue of bonding and creativity during her years on the circuit. Among her favorites is Pasta alla Zozzona, a delectable dish that merges the rich flavors of two Roman classics: carbonara and amatriciana. Over her 11-year career, Alex not only honed her skills on the golf course, achieving two wins and 35 top 10 finishes, but she also discovered the joy of cooking, which she shares passionately with fans and fellow players alike.

A Culinary Discovery on the Instagram Feed

Alex’s culinary journey took a delightful turn when she stumbled upon Pasta alla Zozzona while exploring her Instagram feed. Inspired by its enticing image and rich flavor profile, she decided to try it out, leading to a culinary revelation that quickly became a staple in her kitchen. “I enjoyed making it for others and kind of bringing people together,” she reflects. This sentiment underscores the unifying power of food, particularly in the high-pressure environment of professional sports, where camaraderie is essential.

The Magic of Cooking for the Soul

More than just a meal, cooking has served as Alex’s gateway to relaxation. As she prepares dishes in her kitchen, she finds solace from the mentally taxing world of golf. "It’s a really great way to decompress and get out of your head for a little while," Alex explains. The act of focusing on culinary tasks helps her stay present, eliminating distractions that often accompany life on the tour.

Tips from the Kitchen of a Pro Golfer

For those who aspire to replicate her flavorful Pasta alla Zozzona, Alex offers invaluable advice. “You need access to a store that carries good, imported cheese,” she emphasizes. High-quality ingredients, particularly cheese, are vital for achieving the dish’s authentic taste. As she carefully curates her ingredients, it becomes apparent that the quality of each component can make or break a dish.

Preparing for Culinary Success

Preparation stands as a key aspect of successful cooking, and Alex suggests getting all ingredients organized before diving into the cooking process. “Make sure you chop everything up first, get the tomatoes out of the can, grate the cheese, separate the egg yolks,” she advises. This preparation not only streamlines the cooking process but also minimizes stress, allowing for a more enjoyable culinary experience.

Balancing Ingredients: To Garlic Bread or Not?

During our conversation about her culinary preferences, the topic of garlic bread arose. “I love garlic bread,” Alex admits, “but that is just too many carbs!” This friendly debate reflects the balancing act athletes often face regarding nutrition and indulgence. In the context of preparing a hearty pasta dish like Pasta alla Zozzona, finding the right accompaniments is crucial.

The Recipe: Marina Alex’s Pasta alla Zozzona

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, finely diced
• 1 small red chili pepper, diced
• Guanciale (or pancetta), chopped
• 1 can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• 3 egg yolks
• 3/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• Ground black pepper to taste
• Pasta of choice
• White wine (for deglazing)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by cooking guanciale or pancetta on medium heat. In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil for the pasta. After about 10 minutes, deglaze the pork with white wine, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Continue cooking the meat until it becomes golden brown and the fat is rendered in the pan. Once finished, set the meat aside on a paper towel to eliminate excess grease.
3. In the same pan, sauté onion and chili pepper in the rendered fat, deglazing with a splash of white wine. When the onions become soft and translucent, add the crushed tomatoes and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
4. As the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in the boiling water, removing it about one minute before reaching the recommended al dente cook time.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, Pecorino Romano cheese, and ground black pepper, adding a small splash of pasta water to create a smoother consistency.
6. Once the pasta is al dente, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Combine the pasta with the tomato sauce, cooking over medium heat for one minute, adding more pasta water if necessary.
7. Finally, remove the pan from heat and stir in the egg mixture gently, ensuring it emulsifies into a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs. Top with additional grated Pecorino Romano if desired, and serve immediately.

A Taste of Tradition and Passion

Marina Alex’s Pasta alla Zozzona exemplifies the fusion of sporting life and culinary expression. By sharing her go-to recipe and insights, she not only pays homage to a traditional Italian dish but also highlights how food can foster relationships and provide comfort. As she transitions into retirement, her legacy on the golf course is cemented, but her passion for culinary adventure continues to resonate with players and fans alike.

Connecting Through Culinary Creativity

As we close this flavorful chapter, it’s clear that Marina Alex’s journey extends beyond the golf course into the kitchen. The bonds formed through shared meals remind us all that whether on the greens or in the kitchen, there’s something special about bringing people together. For aspiring chefs and golf enthusiasts, Alex’s tale is a delicious reminder to explore, experiment, and most importantly, enjoy the culinary journey that accompanies every sporting adventure.

Conclusion: An Ongoing Journey

While Marina Alex’s golfing career may be drawing to a close, her culinary story is just beginning. Each bite of Pasta alla Zozzona serves as a reminder of her time on the LPGA Tour — one filled with competition, camaraderie, and creativity. So, gather your ingredients and invite friends to partake in this delightful dish, creating memories and connections that echo the spirit of playing alongside champions on the tour.

In this culinary adventure, we not only celebrate a delicious recipe but the many flavors of life that both food and sport have to offer. Whether you are an avid golfer or simply a lover of good food, there’s something here for everyone to savor and enjoy.