Ingredients
Pasta Dough
Instructions
Step 1
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl until they are well mixed and form a cohesive dough. It's essential to ensure all the flour is combined for a smooth texture.
Wrap the dough in a plastic bag or food wrap to keep it moist. Let it rest for *30 minutes*, allowing the gluten to relax, which makes it easier to roll out later.
Step 2
Once the dough has rested, roll it out to your desired thickness. If using a pasta machine, aim for *level 6*. This ensures a uniform thickness for even cooking.
Feed the dough through a cutting attachment to make your desired pasta shape, or use a sharp knife to cut the dough into strips of the desired width. *Uniformity in size* is key for even cooking.
Step 3
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. It should be salty like the sea to season the pasta well.
Cook the pasta for approximately *2.5 minutes*. Fresh pasta cooks much quicker than dried, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Drain and serve with your favorite sauce immediately for the best taste and texture.
Servings
Equipment
Ideal for rolling out your dough evenly, saving you time and effort. If you're serious about homemade pasta, investing in a pasta machine can transform your kitchen experience.
If you prefer doing things the traditional way, a rolling pin will work just fine for manually flattening the dough to your desired thickness.
Use a sharp knife to cut your pasta into strips or any shape your heart desires. A good blade ensures precise cuts for the perfect pasta.
A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your flour and eggs into a smooth dough.
Wrap your dough and let it rest, allowing the gluten to relax and make it easier to roll out later.
Variations
For those on a **gluten-free journey**, swap traditional wheat flour for **gluten-free flour** and follow the same steps for equally delicious results. π
If you're on a **vegan path**, replace eggs with a mix of **water and olive oil** or try incorporating **aquafaba**βthe liquid from a can of chickpeasβas a binding agent. π± You'll be amazed at how these substitutes work to create a flavorful pasta that aligns with your vegan lifestyle.
Faq
- How long does homemade pasta need to rest?
Allow your pasta dough to rest for at least 30 minutes. This relaxes the gluten, making rolling easier.
- Can I freeze the pasta dough if I don't use it all?
Yes, you can freeze unused pasta dough. Just wrap it well and store it in the freezer for up to a month.
- What's the secret to keeping pasta from sticking?
Ensure there's enough water in your pot, and give the pasta a gentle stir immediately after adding it. You can also add a splash of olive oil to help.
- Does the type of flour affect the pasta texture?
Yes, using "00" flour is recommended for a smoother texture, but all-purpose flour can work if that's on hand.
- Can I use whole eggs instead of extra yolks?
Yes, but using extra yolks adds richness and gives a more tender pasta.
- How do I achieve the perfect pasta thickness?
Experiment with your pasta machine settings. For most dishes, a level 6 (moderate thickness) works well, providing the right balance of tenderness and bite.