Teresa's Recipes
Pici Pasta with Garlic Tomato Sauce
Pici is a traditional Tuscan pasta, hand-rolled into thick, delightful strands reminiscent of fat spaghetti. Originating from the picturesque province of Siena, this comforting dish showcases the rich culinary heritage of Tuscany. Paired with a vibrant garlic tomato sauce, this recipe is not only simple but also a celebration of fresh ingredients. Each bite is a perfect harmony of flavors, enhanced by fragrant basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this Pici Pasta dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 400g Pici pasta
- 2 cans (400g each) Canned tomatoes
- 4 cloves, minced Garlic
- 4 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1/2 cup, torn Fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon (or to taste) Chili flakes
- to taste Salt
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 60g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pici pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and chili flakes, sautéing until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon. Season with salt and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta. Add the drained pasta to the simmering sauce, tossing gently to combine. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the torn fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately, topped with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.
- You can also add sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- If you don't have Pici pasta, you can substitute it with another thick pasta like fettuccine or bucatini.