Pici with Pecorino and Black Pepper
A simple, rustic pasta dish with thick, chewy noodles coated in a creamy pecorino and black pepper sauce. This version uses a shortcut dough with egg for an easier, weeknight-friendly approach.
- Total time
- 40 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 380
- Protein
- 18g

Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 cup, grated pecorino romano cheese
- 2 tsp, freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- 1
On a clean surface, make a mound with the 2 cups flour and create a well in the center. Add the 2 eggs and 2 tbsp water into the well, then use a fork to gradually incorporate the flour until a shaggy dough forms.
- 2
Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding a little flour if sticky. Wrap in plastic and let rest for 15 minutes.
- 3
Roll the dough into a rough rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Using a knife, cut into 1/4-inch wide strips, then roll each strip between your palms to form long, thin ropes. Dust with flour and set aside.
- 4
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pici and cook for 3-4 minutes until they float and are tender but still chewy. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- 5
In a large skillet, combine 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water and the 2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then add the drained pici and toss to coat.
- 6
Remove the skillet from heat and gradually add the 1 cup grated pecorino, tossing constantly until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Add more pasta water a splash at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- 7
Serve immediately, topped with extra grated pecorino and a crack of black pepper if desired.
Tools you’ll need
- large pot
- skillet
- knife
- rolling pin
- grater
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