Gather Your Ingredients
To make gluten-free fresh pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups gluten-free flour blend
- 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Step 1: Mixing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour blend, xanthan gum, and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and crack the eggs into the well. Add the olive oil.
Using a fork, beat the eggs and oil together within the well until well combined. Slowly start incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Continue mixing until a sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Kneading the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a clean and lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, adding additional flour as needed to prevent sticking. The dough should become smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Resting the Dough
Wrap the kneaded dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the gluten-free flour to hydrate and the dough to relax, making it easier to roll out later.
Step 4: Rolling and Cutting the Pasta
After the resting period, divide the dough into two equal portions. Take one portion and flatten it into a rectangle shape, lightly dusting it with gluten-free flour as needed.
Using a rolling pin, start rolling out the dough from the center towards the edges, rotating it occasionally to maintain an even thickness. Aim for a thin and smooth sheet of pasta.
Once the desired thickness is achieved, lightly dust the sheet of pasta with gluten-free flour and fold it loosely like a jelly roll. Use a sharp knife to cut the pasta into your desired shape, such as fettuccine or lasagna noodles.
Step 5: Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gluten-free fresh pasta and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until al dente. Be mindful not to overcook the pasta, as gluten-free pasta may become mushy if cooked for too long.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it with your favorite gluten-free sauce or use it as a base for your favorite pasta dish.
Final Thoughts
With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy homemade gluten-free fresh pasta that rivals the taste and texture of traditional wheat pasta. Experiment with different flours and shapes to find your perfect combination. So grab your apron, get your pasta maker ready, and have fun unleashing your creativity in the kitchen!