Pici with Cherry Tomatoes and Lemon-Scented Ricotta
Category: First Courses
Servings: 4
This Pici con Datterini e Ricotta al Profumo di Limone is a delightful Italian dish that combines the rustic charm of handmade pasta with the vibrant freshness of cherry tomatoes and creamy ricotta. Infused with the delicate aroma of lemon zest, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy during a warm spring or summer evening. The hand-rolled pici pasta, seasoned with a savory tomato sauce, is complemented beautifully by the smooth ricotta, which adds richness and a tangy citrus finish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (00 flour) | 300g |
| Water | 150g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Cherry tomatoes (datterini) | 400g |
| Tomato paste | 20g |
| Anchovy fillets | 2 |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 bunch |
| Extra virgin olive oil (for sauce) | 5 tbsp |
| Ricotta cheese (cow’s milk) | 200g |
| Lemon zest | ½ lemon |
| Extra virgin olive oil (for ricotta) | 25g |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Lemon zest (for garnish) | to taste |
| Fresh basil leaves (for garnish) | a few sprigs |
| Black pepper (for garnish) | a dash |
Instructions
Prepare the Pici Pasta
- Begin by preparing the fresh pici pasta. On a clean surface, make a well with the flour, and pour the water and olive oil into the center. Gradually combine the flour with the liquid, working until a stiff, smooth, and homogeneous dough forms.
- Once the dough comes together, knead it for about 10 minutes until it’s elastic and smooth. Form the dough into a ball and cover it with an overturned bowl. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- While the dough is resting, prepare the tomato sauce. Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- In a large skillet, heat 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the anchovy fillets and let them dissolve in the oil, stirring occasionally.
- Add the grated garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Cover the pan and let the tomatoes simmer for about 10-12 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
Prepare the Ricotta
- In a bowl, place the ricotta cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a generous amount of lemon zest. Slowly drizzle in 25g of extra virgin olive oil while stirring to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Set aside.
Shape the Pici
- After the dough has rested, roll it out using a rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of about 1 cm. Cut the dough into strips approximately ½ cm wide.
- Take each strip and roll it with the tips of your fingers to form long, thick strands of pasta. This is the pici – hand-rolled, rustic, and delicious.
Cook the Pici
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pici and cook for about 3 minutes, or until they float to the surface, signaling they’re done.
Assemble the Dish
- Once the pici is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it into a large bowl. Add the prepared tomato sauce and toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve the pici by dividing it among plates. Top each serving with a generous dollop of the lemon-scented ricotta. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, a few basil leaves, and a dash of black pepper.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Your Pici con Datterini e Ricotta al Profumo di Limone is ready to be served! Enjoy this fresh, aromatic dish with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water for a complete, refreshing meal.
Tips and Variations
- Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the pici dough in advance. After resting, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling and cutting.
- Substitutes: If you can’t find fresh ricotta, try using mascarpone or another soft cheese like goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, substitute the ricotta with a plant-based ricotta or a creamy cashew-based sauce. Make sure to use olive oil instead of butter for the sauce as well.
This recipe is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients like fresh pasta, tomatoes, and ricotta can come together to create a delightful and aromatic dish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these Pici con Datterini e Ricotta al Profumo di Limone are sure to impress. Enjoy the flavors of Italy in every bite!
