How to Make Authentic Homemade Italian Pasta (Easy Traditional Recipe)

Discovering the Joy of Homemade Pasta

There is something magical about making pasta by hand — something that slows you down, grounds you, and instantly brings that comforting Italian feeling into your kitchen.

This is the recipe I use at home all the time — simple, reliable, perfect for beginners and perfect for anyone who wants to taste real Italian pasta. Once you try it, you'll never go back to store-bought!

Let’s get started.

Easy Homemade Pasta Recipe (Beginner-Friendly)

Ingredients (for 2 people)

• 100 g Italian 00 flour

• 100 g semolina flour

• 2 eggs
  (General rule: 1 egg for every 100 g of flour.)

Instructions

1. Mix the 00 flour and semolina together on a clean surface.

2. Create a small well in the center and crack the eggs into it.

3. With a fork, gently start mixing the eggs while pulling in a little flour at a time.

4. When the dough starts to come together, knead with your hands for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Wrap the dough and let it rest for 20–30 minutes.

6. Roll it out with a rolling pin or pasta machine and cut into your favorite shape.

7. Cook in salted boiling water for 2–3 minutes.
   Enjoy!

Crafting Different Shapes: A Creative Adventure

Pasta comes in all shapes and sizes, each holding its own unique charm. From delicate fettuccine to hearty orecchiette, each shape has a story to tell. Fettuccine, flat and ribbon-like, begs to be paired with a creamy Alfredo sauce, while orecchiette, resembling little ears, are perfect for catching a chunky sauce. Want something fun? Farfalline, or bow-tie pasta, adds a playful twist to any dish! The key to recognizing them lies in their texture and shape—smooth for tagliatelle and ridged for fusilli. With a little practice, you’ll be able to identify each beloved shape in no time!

For a deeper dive into the art of handmade pasta, check out my book, The Timeless Tradition of Italy’s Handmade Pasta, available in the My Books section. Inside, you’ll find detailed recipes, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to master every pasta shape like an Italian chef. Perfect for anyone who wants to bring authentic Italian traditions to their own kitchen!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pasta Dough

Creating the perfect pasta dough may seem daunting, but fear not! Here are some tips to help you achieve that silky, elastic texture that makes all the difference. First, remember to knead the dough until it’s smooth and pliable—this can take anywhere from 8 to 10 minutes. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour, but avoid overdoing it; you don’t want tough pasta. And here's a pro tip: let your dough rest for at least 30 minutes, wrapped in plastic. It allows the gluten to relax, making your pasta easier to roll out.

Common mistakes can happen, so don't be discouraged! A frequent pitfall is using too much flour while rolling out your dough, which can lead to dry pasta. Instead, use just enough to keep it from sticking. If your pasta strands start to break when cooking, gently reduce the boiling time next time. Remember, practice makes perfect!

Creating traditional Italian pasta at home is not merely about the end product; it’s a journey—a celebration of love, family, and flavors. So, roll up your sleeves, bring the family to the table, and let the magic happen. Buon Appetito!