Making your own pasta from scratch
What you'll need
- A large mixing bowl
- A wooden spoon or a fork
- A rolling pin or a pasta machine
- A sharp knife or a pizza cutter
- A large pot of boiling water
- A colander
- Your favorite sauce and toppings
Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Water as needed
Steps
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add the olive oil and start mixing with a wooden spoon or a fork, gradually incorporating the flour from the sides of the well.
2. When the dough becomes too stiff to mix with a spoon or a fork, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead it with your hands for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add some water if the dough is too dry, or some flour if it is too sticky.
3. Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into four equal pieces and work with one piece at a time, keeping the rest covered with plastic wrap. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin or a pasta machine until it is thin enough to see your hand through it. You can also cut the dough into smaller pieces if it is easier to handle.
5. Cut the dough into your desired shape and size with a sharp knife or a pizza cutter. You can make long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine, or short ones like penne or macaroni. You can also make stuffed pasta like ravioli or tortellini by placing some filling on one piece of dough and covering it with another piece, then sealing the edges with water or egg wash.
6. Place the pasta on a baking sheet dusted with flour and let it dry for about 15 minutes, or until slightly firm. You can also freeze the pasta for later use by placing it in an airtight container or a freezer bag.
7. To cook the pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta in batches. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until al dente (tender but firm to the bite). Drain the pasta in a colander and toss it with your favorite sauce and toppings. Enjoy!
