This past weekend I decided to give homemade pasta an old college try. My mom is quite the pro at homemade pasta, so I think I’ve always been intimated by some big shoes to fill. But now that I’ve tried it on my own, I can’t believe I waited as long as I did. The effort is totally worth it. Yes, it takes more time but sometimes you just need to slow it down, enjoy the process and pull off a nice dinner.
I chose a whole wheat pasta recipe, both because it seems more nutritious and also because of its slightly-rustic tasting flavor. The texture had a little bit of a bite to it and it cooked to a perfect al dente.
And, before people who know me ask….I did not use the fancy pasta maker that attaches to my stand mixer. I know, I know, it was a gift, I already have it and it would have been easier. Trust me, I definitely see its benefits now that I’ve been through one go around.
Rolling out the dough, old school style. Yes, that's glass of wine in the corner and yes, it's essential to the process.
But for my first time making homemade pasta, I wanted it to be a more authentic experience. And let’s be honest here: rolling out dough is a good outlet for any stress and tension. I liked the simplicity and sense of accomplishment in making homemade pasta without any fancy equipment.
Her super smart technique: Once you get the piece of dough nice and thin, roll it up and then cut it into smaller pieces.
I used this recipe from a blog I follow, Sugarlaws, and followed her technique as well. She’s very smart about the process and has some great advice about resting the dough in between rolling it out. I also just think she’s a very talented blogger, so it’s worth checking out.
Then you simply unroll each piece. Genius!
It’s definitely a great standard recipe to have on hand and not at all difficult. And especially since you really only need a rolling pin, it’s something I definitely recommend trying at least once. It’s nice knowing you can make something out of the ordinary – with or without any special equipment.
Homemade Pasta and Sauce: A Perfect Saturday Night Dinner
Have you tried making homemade pasta? Did you opt for a pasta-making machine or go for a more DIY method?
That looks amazing! Will you teach me when I come to visit??
P.S., totallly caught the wine glass in the corner before I read the caption
Yes, she was feeling very Italian. It was a real treat! (I also had some of the wine.)
I’m so glad that you try it. Homemade pasta is always best. Try different kinds as well. Like tomato pasta, spinach pasta, and egg pasta. With different sauce it’s great.
Enjoy
Man, you really put me to shame for neglecting my own blog
How long was the whole process for you? I’m making a special dinner Thursday night, but dont want to be working too long at it since I have to make this right before cooking. I havent made pasta since my pasta class, but I think its way over do! thanks for sharing this one