Authentic Pici Pasta with Tomato-Basil Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Hand-rolled Tuscan pasta noodles tossed in a vibrant tomato-basil sauce, featuring the true texture and simplicity of Italian tradition. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 75 minutes blends all-purpose flour, extra virgin olive oil, ripe tomatoes into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 385 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.0 (9 ratings) Prep: 45 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 385 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Form a well in 2 cups all-purpose flour on a clean surface, add 1/4 cup water and 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, then mix with a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Step 2: Knead the dough for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic, then wrap in plastic and rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
  3. Step 3: Divide the rested dough into 4 equal portions and roll each into 1/4-inch-thick ropes on a floured surface, then cut into 12-inch lengths.
  4. Step 4: Gently roll each length between your palms to create thin, slightly irregular noodles, about 1/8 inch thick.
  5. Step 5: Simmer 1.5 lbs peeled, seeded, and chopped ripe tomatoes with 2 minced garlic cloves in a saucepan over medium heat for 20 minutes until thickened and reduced by half.
  6. Step 6: Stir in 1/4 cup fresh basil and 1 tsp sea salt, then cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce is glossy and fragrant.
  7. Step 7: Cook 4 portions of pici pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 3 minutes until al dente, then drain and toss immediately with the tomato-basil sauce.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Authentic Pici Pasta with Tomato-Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 75 minutes (45 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Authentic Pici Pasta with Tomato-Basil Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Authentic Pici Pasta with Tomato-Basil Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Authentic Pici Pasta with Tomato-Basil Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Authentic Pici Pasta with Tomato-Basil Sauce vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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