A fresh, homemade pasta dough can transform a simple meal into something truly special. Making your own pasta dough may seem daunting, but with just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create a delicious pasta that will impress your loved ones. This recipe for Pasta Dough For Two is perfect for a cozy date night at home or a small family dinner.
### Pasta Dough For Two
#### Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 large egg
– Pinch of salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Water, as needed
#### Instructions:
1. **Create the Flour Mound:** Place the flour in a mound on a clean work surface, creating a well in the center large enough to hold the egg and salt without spilling over.
2. **Add the Egg and Salt:** Crack the egg into the well and sprinkle the salt over the egg. Drizzle the olive oil on top of the egg.
3. **Mix the Ingredients:** Using a fork, gently beat the egg in the center of the well, gradually incorporating the surrounding flour. Continue mixing until a shaggy dough begins to form.
4. **Knead the Dough:** Once the dough is too thick to mix with a fork, use your hands to knead it together. If the dough is too dry, add a little water, one teaspoon at a time, until it comes together in a smooth ball.
5. **Rest the Dough:** Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and makes the dough easier to roll out.
6. **Roll Out the Dough:** After resting, place the dough on a floured work surface and roll it out to your desired thickness. You can use a rolling pin or a pasta machine to achieve the desired thickness.
7. **Cut the Pasta:** Once you have rolled out the dough, cut it into your preferred pasta shape. You can make fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even ravioli.
8. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fresh pasta for about 2-3 minutes, or until al dente. Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried pasta, so keep an eye on it.
9. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and toss it with your favorite sauce. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and some freshly cracked black pepper.
10. **Bon Appétit:** Enjoy your homemade Pasta Dough For Two with a glass of wine and some crusty bread for a cozy and romantic meal. Fresh pasta has a tender texture and a rich flavor that store-bought pasta just can’t match, making it a delightful treat for special occasions or whenever you want to impress your guests.
By taking the time to make your own pasta dough, you can elevate any meal with a touch of homemade goodness. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master and enjoy. So, roll up your sleeves, get ready to knead, and savor the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch.
