Quick & Easy Pici all’Aglione (Tuscan Garlic Tomato Sauce) – Italian Pasta Recipe

Introduction:

Craving a bold yet simple Italian dish that celebrates the beauty of rustic flavors? This Quick & Easy Pici all’Aglione is a Tuscan classic that delivers comforting depth with just a few humble ingredients. Thick, hand-rolled pici pasta is coated in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce, aglio meaning garlic, and aglione referring to a larger, milder Tuscan garlic that gives this dish its signature flavor. Don’t worry if you can’t find the original garlic, regular garlic works beautifully too. It's the ultimate Italian comfort food that’s easy enough for weeknights but tastes like a dish straight from a countryside trattoria.

Ingredients:

Serves 2–3

1. 250g (about 9 oz) fresh or dried pici pasta (or substitute thick spaghetti or bucatini)
2. 6–8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced (or 3–4 if using large, mild garlic like aglione)
3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. 1 (14 oz) can crushed or peeled San Marzano tomatoes
5. Salt to taste
6. Pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
7. Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
8. Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pici according to package directions (usually 20–22 minutes if fresh, less if dried). Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook gently, stirring frequently, until soft and fragrant—about 2–3 minutes. Avoid browning it, as that can turn it bitter.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Stir and let it simmer on low for 10–15 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic. Add red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Combine & Finish

Add the drained pasta to the sauce, along with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Toss well to coat the pici thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

Plate immediately and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. No cheese needed, this dish shines in its simplicity.

Optional Variations:

• Add Depth: Stir in a touch of tomato paste or a splash of dry red wine while simmering the sauce.
• Make It Hearty: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a veggie-forward version.
• Spicy Version: Use more red pepper flakes or even a crushed Calabrian chili for heat.
• Protein Twist: Serve alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple & Authentic – Minimal ingredients, maximum Italian flavor.
• Garlic Lover’s Dream – Sweet, mellow garlic infused throughout the dish.
• Perfectly Rustic – Thick pasta and rustic sauce for true Tuscan comfort.
• Meatless Marvel – A satisfying vegetarian main with no need for cheese or meat.
• Budget-Friendly – Made with pantry staples and big flavor.

This Pici all’Aglione is a perfect reminder that the best Italian food isn’t fussy, it’s fresh, honest, and made with love. Whether you're recreating Tuscan charm in your kitchen or just looking for a new meatless pasta night go-to, this dish is bound to become a favorite.