Imagine transforming simple ingredients into delicate, silky strands of pure Italian culinary magic right in your own kitchen! This fresh angel hair pasta recipe isn't just a meal—it's an experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy. Whether you're a passionate home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking skills and impress even the most discerning food lovers with its simplicity and elegance.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 mins
Total Time: 32 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, create a flour well by forming a mound with the all-purpose flour and making a deep center crater.
- Crack the three large eggs into the flour well, then add salt and olive oil directly into the center.
- Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour from the edges into the eggs, mixing slowly to create a shaggy dough mixture.
- Once the initial mixing is complete, use your hands to knead the dough on a clean, lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a compact ball, then cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow gluten to relax.
- After resting, divide the dough into 4 equal portions and work with one portion at a time, keeping others covered.
- Roll out each dough portion using a pasta machine or rolling pin, gradually reducing thickness to create very thin sheets suitable for angel hair pasta.
- Cut the thin sheets into delicate angel hair strands using a pasta machine's thin cutting attachment or a sharp knife.
- Dust the fresh pasta strands with flour to prevent sticking and let them dry slightly before cooking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then carefully add the fresh angel hair pasta.
- Cook the pasta for 1-2 minutes until al dente, stirring gently to prevent clumping.
- Drain the pasta quickly and serve immediately with your preferred sauce or preparation.
Tips
- Temperature matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better dough consistency.
- Kneading technique: Be patient during kneading—a full 8-10 minutes develops the perfect gluten structure.
- Resting is crucial: Never skip the 30-minute dough rest, as it allows gluten to relax and makes rolling easier.
- Flour is your friend: Keep your work surface and pasta lightly floured to prevent sticking.
- Work in small batches: Divide and cover dough portions to maintain moisture and workability.
- For thin pasta: If using a rolling pin, aim for almost translucent dough sheets.
- Cooking tip: Salt your boiling water generously and cook pasta briefly to maintain its delicate texture.
- Serve immediately: Fresh angel hair pasta is best enjoyed right after cooking for optimal taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
