What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- A pinch of salt
- Your choice of filling (spinach and ricotta, mushroom and cheese, or any other filling you desire!)
- A pasta roller or rolling pin
- A cookie cutter or ravioli mold (optional)
Step 1: Making the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Using a fork, gradually mix the eggs with the flour until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough feels dry, you can add a small amount of water, one teaspoon at a time. Once the dough comes together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
Step 2: Kneading the Dough
Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This will ensure that your pasta dough has the right texture. If the dough feels sticky, add more flour as needed, but do it sparingly. Once kneaded, shape the dough into a ball and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Rolling the Dough
After resting, your dough is now ready to be rolled out. Divide the dough into smaller portions, as it will be easier to work with. Take one piece and flatten it with your hands. Using a pasta roller or a rolling pin, roll the dough out into a thin sheet. If using a roller, start with the widest setting and gradually work your way to a thinner setting.
Step 4: Filling and Shaping
Now comes the fun part – filling and shaping your stuffed pasta! Spoon your desired filling onto one-half of the rolled-out dough, leaving some space between each mound of filling. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling. Press gently around each mound of filling to remove any air bubbles and seal the edges.
Step 5: Cutting and Cooking
You can either use a cookie cutter to cut out individual stuffed pasta pieces or use a ravioli mold for a more uniform shape. If using a cookie cutter, press firmly around each filling mound to cut out your desired shape. If using a ravioli mold, place the filled dough over the mold, press it gently, and trim off any excess dough. Once shaped, your stuffed pasta is ready to be cooked!
Final Thoughts
With a little practice, you’ll soon be making delicious stuffed pasta dough like a pro. Get creative with your fillings and experiment with different shapes and sizes. Trust us, the effort is absolutely worth it when you take that first bite of your homemade stuffed pasta. Buon appetito!