Making homemade pasta is a rewarding culinary experience that brings a fresh, flavorful touch to your meals. While store-bought pasta is convenient, nothing compares to the taste and texture of freshly made pasta. The process is simple, but it requires patience and a little practice.
Ingredients:
To start, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour (or 00 flour for a more delicate texture)
- 2 large eggs
- A pinch of salt
- A splash of water (if needed)
Steps:
- Form the Dough: On a clean surface, create a mound with the flour and make a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well, add a pinch of salt, and whisk gently with a fork. Slowly incorporate the flour from the edges into the eggs. As the dough begins to come together, knead it by hand until smooth and elastic—about 8-10 minutes.
- Rest the Dough: Let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes, covered with a damp cloth. This helps relax the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out.
- Roll and Shape: After resting, roll out the dough on a floured surface until thin. Use a pasta machine or a rolling pin for even thickness. Cut into your preferred shape, whether it’s fettuccine, tagliatelle, or pappardelle.
- Cook: Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried, typically in 2-4 minutes. Serve with your favorite sauce!