Are you dreaming of a delicious, homemade pasta dinner without the fuss? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Giada De Laurentiis, offers a surprisingly simple way to create fresh pasta from scratch. Forget those dry, store-bought noodles – prepare for a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor in every bite! This is a perfect recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful balance of ease and elegance. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this easy recipe for fresh pasta that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Dough
- On a clean work surface, create a mound with the flour. Make a well in the center.
- Crack the eggs into the well, add the olive oil and salt.
- Using a fork, gently whisk the eggs, gradually incorporating the flour from the sides.
- Once the dough starts to come together, use your hands to knead it for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a smoother, more tender pasta.
Step 2: Rolling and Cutting the Pasta
- After resting, divide the dough into four equal portions. Keep three portions covered while you work with one.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough using a rolling pin or a pasta machine, starting with a thicker setting and gradually reducing the thickness to your desired level. Aim for a thin sheet, but not so thin that it tears easily.
- Lightly dust the rolled-out dough with flour to prevent sticking.
- Using a knife or a pasta cutter, cut the dough into your preferred shape – fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even simple noodles.
Step 3: Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fresh pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until al dente. Taste-test to ensure perfect doneness.
- Drain the pasta and toss immediately with your favorite sauce.
Tips for Pasta Perfection:
- Flour Power: Use good quality flour for the best results.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in tough pasta.
- Rest is Key: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for a more manageable and flavorful pasta.
- Sauce It Up: This fresh pasta is delicious with any sauce – try a simple tomato sauce, pesto, creamy Alfredo, or a vibrant primavera.
Delicious Variations:
- Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the dough for extra flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Spinach Pasta: Blend some cooked spinach into the dough for vibrant green pasta.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the sauce and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fat: 5-7g
This fresh pasta recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests with a homemade touch. The process is easier than you think, and the reward of fresh, flavorful pasta is well worth the effort. Enjoy your delicious, homemade creation!