Regional Italian Pasta Dishes You Must Try this World Pasta Day

It's World Pasta Day on 25th October, so we thought that this feature would be a good follow-up to our recent post on World Pasta Day.

Italy is a culinary paradise, with each region boasting its own unique pasta dishes that reflect local flavours, ingredients, and traditions. From the sunny south to the rolling hills of Tuscany, the variety of pasta dishes is astounding.

 Here’s a guide to some of the most iconic regional pasta dishes that you simply must try when visiting Italy or dining at a proper Italian restaurant.

1. Pesto alla Genovese – Liguria

Liguria, in the north-west of Italy, is famous for its vibrant green sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmigiano Reggiano, and extra virgin olive oil. Traditionally served with trofie or trenette pasta, Pesto alla Genovese is a perfect representation of Ligurian cuisine, showcasing the simple yet fragrant flavours of the Mediterranean.

2. Tagliatelle al Ragù – Emilia-Romagna

Often misunderstood as spaghetti Bolognese, this dish is the pride of Bologna. The region of Emilia-Romagna is home to tagliatelle al ragù, a rich and slow-cooked meat sauce made with minced beef, pork, vegetables, wine, and tomatoes, served over wide ribbons of fresh egg pasta. The depth of flavour in this dish is unmatched, making it a must-try for lovers of hearty Italian fare.

3. Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa – Puglia

In the southern region of Puglia, orecchiette, meaning “little ears”, is a beloved pasta shape that pairs perfectly with cime di rapa (turnip greens). This dish is simple yet flavourful, combining the slightly bitter greens with garlic, chilli, and anchovies. It's a wonderful example of how Puglian cuisine relies on fresh, local produce to create bold and satisfying flavours.

4. Spaghetti alla Carbonara – Lazio

Rome's culinary contribution to the world would not be complete without spaghetti alla carbonara. Made with just a handful of ingredients—guanciale (cured pork cheek), pecorino Romano, eggs, and black pepper—this dish is creamy, indulgent, and utterly delicious. The key to a perfect carbonara lies in creating a smooth, velvety sauce without using cream, which is achieved by skilfully combining the egg and cheese mixture with hot pasta.

5. Trofie al Pesto – Liguria

Another Ligurian speciality, trofie al pesto is made with the short, twisted trofie pasta, which clings beautifully to the fresh basil pesto sauce. Often served with green beans and potatoes, this dish is a celebration of the region's fresh produce and Mediterranean flavours.

6. Pappardelle al Cinghiale – Tuscany

Tuscany is known for its rustic, countryside cuisine, and pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar ragu) is a perfect example. Thick ribbons of pappardelle pasta are coated in a slow-cooked sauce made from wild boar, red wine, tomatoes, and herbs. This hearty dish is a favourite during the cooler months and a great way to experience Tuscany's deep-rooted culinary traditions.

7. Cacio e Pepe – Lazio

Simple yet intensely flavourful, cacio e pepe is a Roman classic made with just three ingredients: pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta. Typically served with tonnarelli or spaghetti, this dish relies on the starchy pasta water to create a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. It's a must-try for anyone who loves bold, cheesy flavours.

8. Fettuccine al Tartufo – Umbria

The region of Umbria is famous for its truffles, and one of the most luxurious pasta dishes you can try here is fettuccine al tartufo. This dish is made with freshly shaved black or white truffles, butter, and sometimes a touch of cream. The rich, earthy aroma of truffles infuses the pasta, making it a decadent treat that is often reserved for special occasions.

9. Bigoli in Salsa – Veneto

A traditional Venetian dish, bigoli in salsa is made with thick, long pasta called bigoli, which is typically served with a sauce made from anchovies, onions, and olive oil. It’s a humble yet flavour-packed dish that reflects the region’s love of seafood and simple, wholesome ingredients.

10. Malloreddus alla Campidanese – Sardinia

Sardinia’s most famous pasta dish, malloreddus, also known as Sardinian gnocchi, is a small, ridged pasta often served with a hearty sausage and tomato sauce, flavoured with saffron. This dish has a distinctively rich and comforting flavour, and it’s a great way to experience the unique culinary traditions of the island.

Final Thoughts

Italian pasta dishes are as diverse as the regions they come from, with each area offering its own interpretation of pasta based on local ingredients and traditions. Whether you’re drawn to the simple elegance of cacio e pepe or the rich, gamey flavours of pappardelle al cinghiale, exploring regional Italian pasta dishes is a journey through the heart of Italy’s culinary heritage.

Next time you're cooking or dining out, make sure to seek out one of these classic regional pasta dishes—you won't be disappointed!

Our World Pasta Day post:- https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2024/10/celebrate-world-pasta-day-dining-out-or.html

Celebrate World Pasta Day: Dining Out or Feasting at Home?

World Pasta Day, celebrated annually on 25th October, is the perfect excuse to indulge in one of the most beloved and versatile foods on the planet.

Whether you're a fan of creamy carbonara, hearty Bolognese, or delicate aglio e olio, pasta offers endless possibilities. 

This year, why not mark the occasion in style, either by enjoying an evening out at your favourite Italian restaurant or hosting a cosy pasta feast at home? Here are some ideas to make your World Pasta Day truly memorable.

1. Dining Out: Treat Yourself to an Italian Feast

If you fancy someone else doing the cooking, dining out is a wonderful way to celebrate. Italian restaurants across the UK are known for their warm atmosphere, authentic dishes, and of course, expertly cooked pasta. Here’s how to make the most of your pasta-filled night out:

Explore Local Italian Eateries: Use the day as an opportunity to discover a new Italian restaurant near you. Whether it’s a high-end Italian bistro or a cosy family-owned trattoria, there's no shortage of choices. Many restaurants may even offer special menus or discounts to celebrate World Pasta Day.

Try Something New: While you might love a classic spaghetti Bolognese or lasagne, World Pasta Day is the perfect time to expand your pasta palate. Why not try something more adventurous, like pappardelle with wild boar ragu, cacio e pepe, or pasta alla norma with aubergine and ricotta?

Pair It with Wine: Pasta and wine are a match made in heaven. For a creamy Alfredo or carbonara, pair it with a crisp white like a Pinot Grigio. If you're enjoying a robust meat sauce, a bold red such as Chianti or Montepulciano will complement the flavours beautifully.

2. Feasting at Home: A Homemade Pasta Celebration

For those who prefer a more intimate celebration or simply love cooking, hosting a pasta feast at home is equally rewarding. Here’s how to turn your kitchen into a mini Italian trattoria:

Cook from Scratch: Why not go the extra mile and make your pasta from scratch? Homemade pasta is surprisingly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients. Get the whole family involved in rolling out the dough, or invest in a pasta machine for an even more authentic experience. Tagliatelle, ravioli, or even hand-rolled gnocchi are great options to try.

Create a Themed Pasta Bar: If you're hosting guests, a pasta bar is a fun and interactive way to celebrate. Set up different stations with a variety of pasta shapes, sauces (think rich marinara, velvety Alfredo, or spicy arrabbiata), and toppings such as roasted vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Let everyone customise their own pasta bowl!

Pair with Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: Autumn is the ideal season for hearty, comforting dishes. Incorporate seasonal produce like pumpkin, butternut squash, mushrooms, and sage into your pasta creations for a truly seasonal meal. A simple sage and brown butter sauce over fresh ravioli can be as indulgent as it is comforting.

Don’t Forget Dessert: To finish your pasta feast on a sweet note, whip up a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu, panna cotta, or gelato. Light, refreshing, and a perfect contrast to a rich pasta main course.

3. The Best of Both Worlds: Pasta Cook-Along with Friends

If you’re torn between dining out and staying in, why not merge the two? Host a virtual pasta cook-along with friends and family. Choose a recipe, share the ingredients list in advance, and cook together over a video call. It’s a fun way to stay connected while celebrating the day with loved ones. After cooking, sit down to enjoy your creations while catching up over good food and laughter.

Final Thoughts

World Pasta Day is all about enjoying this beloved comfort food, whether you're in the mood for dining out or creating something special in your own kitchen. With so many types of pasta and sauces to choose from, the possibilities are endless. Whether you explore new Italian restaurants, perfect a new pasta recipe, or simply cook your favourite dish, make sure to savour every bite this World Pasta Day.

Buon appetito!

Creating Delectable Homemade Pasta Sauces:

There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of preparing your own pasta sauce from scratch. Fresh, flavourful, and free from preservatives, homemade pasta sauces elevate any pasta dish to a new level of culinary delight. 

Whether you’re a fan of rich and hearty sauces or prefer something light and fresh, crafting your own sauce at home allows you to tailor the flavours to your liking. Here, we explore some classic and contemporary pasta sauces that you can easily make in your own kitchen.

Classic Tomato Sauce

A classic tomato sauce is a staple in any cook's repertoire. It's versatile, delicious, and the perfect base for many pasta dishes.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

800g tinned tomatoes

1 tablespoon tomato purée

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil, torn (optional)

Method:

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

Pour in the tinned tomatoes and add the tomato purée. Stir well to combine.

Add the sugar, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.

Stir in fresh basil just before serving for an extra burst of flavour.

Creamy Alfredo Sauce

This rich and indulgent Alfredo sauce is perfect for fettuccine or any pasta of your choice.

Ingredients:

100g butter

250ml double cream

100g grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method:

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Pour in the double cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately over hot pasta and garnish with fresh parsley.

Pesto Genovese

This vibrant green sauce is packed with the fresh flavours of basil, garlic, and pine nuts. It’s a quick and easy sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta.

Ingredients:

50g fresh basil leaves

2 cloves garlic

30g pine nuts, toasted

60g Parmesan cheese, grated

120ml olive oil

Salt to taste

Method:

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.

Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.

With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.

Season with salt to taste.

Toss with freshly cooked pasta and serve immediately.

Bolognese Sauce

A hearty Bolognese sauce is perfect for a comforting meal. This meat-based sauce is traditionally served with tagliatelle or spaghetti.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, finely chopped

2 celery sticks, finely chopped

500g minced beef

150ml red wine

400g tinned tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato purée

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 10 minutes.

Add the minced beef and cook until browned.

Pour in the red wine and cook until it has mostly evaporated.

Add the tinned tomatoes, tomato purée, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Let the sauce simmer gently for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally, to develop deep, rich flavours.

Serve over your favourite pasta.

Conclusion

Making your own pasta sauces at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to customise flavours and enjoy fresher, healthier meals. Whether you’re simmering a robust Bolognese or whipping up a quick pesto, these recipes are sure to bring a touch of Italian flair to your British kitchen. So, don your apron, grab your ingredients, and start creating delicious homemade pasta sauces that will impress family and friends alike. Buon appetito!

Crafting Homemade Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fresh Pasta from Scratch

Introduction

There’s something truly special about making your own pasta from scratch. 

The process is both therapeutic and rewarding, resulting in a delicious and authentic dish that’s far superior to store-bought pasta. 

With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create fresh pasta that will elevate your meals to new heights.

Here, Iwe'll guide you through the process of making homemade pasta, from mixing the dough to cutting the noodles.

Ingredients

To make enough pasta for four servings, you will need:

400g (14oz) ‘00’ flour (Italian finely milled flour)

4 large eggs

A pinch of salt

Semolina flour or extra ‘00’ flour for dusting

Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough

Measure the Flour:

On a clean, flat surface or in a large mixing bowl, measure out the 400g of ‘00’ flour. Create a well in the centre of the flour mound.

Add the Eggs:

Crack the eggs into the well. Add a pinch of salt to the eggs. Using a fork, gently beat the eggs, gradually incorporating the surrounding flour until a thick paste begins to form.

Mix the Dough:

Once the eggs are mostly mixed with the flour, use your hands to bring the dough together. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a small amount of water, a teaspoon at a time.

Knead the Dough:

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for developing the gluten, which gives the pasta its structure and chewiness. The dough should be firm but pliable.

Rest the Dough:

Wrap the dough in cling film and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

2. Rolling Out the Dough

Divide the Dough:

After resting, divide the dough into four equal portions. Keep the portions you’re not working with covered to prevent them from drying out.

Flatten the Dough:

Using a rolling pin, flatten one portion of dough into a rough rectangle or oval shape. If you have a pasta machine, set it to the widest setting.

Roll the Dough:

If using a pasta machine, feed the dough through the machine at the widest setting. Fold the dough into thirds, like an envelope, and pass it through the machine again. Repeat this process 2-3 times to develop the dough’s elasticity. Gradually reduce the machine’s setting, one notch at a time, rolling the dough through each setting until you reach the desired thickness. For most pasta types, the dough should be thin enough to see your hand through when held up to the light.

Hand Rolling Option:

If rolling by hand, continue using a rolling pin to roll the dough as thin as possible. This will take some effort, but the results are worth it.

3. Cutting the Pasta

Prepare for Cutting:

Lightly dust the rolled-out dough with semolina flour or ‘00’ flour to prevent sticking. If you’re making long noodles like tagliatelle or fettuccine, gently fold the dough into a loose roll.

Cut the Pasta:

Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into the desired width. For tagliatelle, cut into strips about 1cm (1/2 inch) wide. For fettuccine, cut into slightly narrower strips. If making shapes like farfalle (bow ties), cut into rectangles and pinch in the centre.

Unfold and Dust:

Carefully unfold the cut pasta and dust with more flour to prevent sticking. Lay the pasta out on a floured surface or hang it over a pasta drying rack.

4. Cooking Fresh Pasta

Boil the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried pasta, typically in 2-4 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness and type of pasta.

Test for Doneness:

Test the pasta by tasting a piece. It should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente).

Drain and Serve:

Drain the pasta and toss it immediately with your favourite sauce. Fresh pasta pairs beautifully with simple sauces like a classic tomato sauce, aglio e olio (garlic and oil), or a rich, creamy Alfredo.

Conclusion

Making your own pasta from scratch is a delightful culinary adventure that results in a truly superior dish. With just a few basic ingredients and some time, you can create delicious, fresh pasta that will impress your family and friends.

Whether you’re making simple spaghetti or intricate ravioli, the process of crafting homemade pasta is both satisfying and rewarding. So, roll up your sleeves, dust off your rolling pin, and dive into the wonderful world of homemade pasta! Buon appetito!

Pasta Nostra Stirring Up the Instant Snack Pots Category With the Launch of Six Healthy Pasta Pots, Made in Italy

In an era where convenience unfortunately often trumps nutrition, Pasta Nostra is setting a new standard by offering a range of healthy and delicious instant snack pots. 

These innovative pasta pots, made authentically in Italy, are poised to revolutionise the instant food market with their focus on quality ingredients, health benefits, and authentic Italian flavours.

A Culinary Revolution in a Pot

Pasta Nostra’s new product line includes six distinct pasta pots, each crafted to provide a nutritious, flavourful meal in minutes. Unlike many instant snacks that rely heavily on preservatives and artificial flavours, Pasta Nostra’s offerings are rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Italy. The brand’s commitment to authenticity is evident in every bite, transporting consumers straight to the heart of Italy with their deliciously wholesome recipes.

The Six Pasta Pots

Pasta Nostra instant fusilli pasta pots are available in six tempting and utterly delicious flavours, two containing meat, Bolognese, Carbonara; three vegetarian options, Tomato & Mozzarella, Cheese & Pepper and Mushroom; and vegans haven't been left out. For the vegans is a gorgeous Arrabbiata. 

Each recipe is 70g and when boiling water is added to the fill line, provides a 250g serve, with calories for the different flavours ranging from 233-263 kcal per pot.

Pasta Nostra has a suggested retail price of £1.75 per pot and further details and stocking queries are available from info@pasta-nostra.com or use the website contact form https://www.pasta-nostra.com.

Why Choose Pasta Nostra?

Authenticity and Quality: Each pasta pot is crafted in Italy using traditional methods and the finest ingredients. This ensures that every product not only tastes great but also stays true to its Italian roots.

Health Conscious: Pasta Nostra prioritises nutrition without sacrificing flavour. The pasta pots are designed to be low in calories, rich in nutrients, and free from artificial additives. This makes them a great option for health-conscious consumers who still want to enjoy delicious food.

Convenience: In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare healthy meals can be challenging. Pasta Nostra’s instant pasta pots are ready in just minutes, making them an ideal solution for busy professionals, students, or anyone in need of a quick meal.

Sustainability: Pasta Nostra is committed to sustainable practices. Their packaging is eco-friendly, and they source their ingredients from responsible suppliers. This ensures that enjoying their products is not only good for you but also good for the planet.

Pasta Nostra’s launch of six healthy pasta pots marks a significant milestone in the instant snack category. By combining convenience with authentic Italian flavours and a strong emphasis on nutrition, they are catering to the growing demand for healthier, more mindful eating options. Whether you’re at work, at home, or on the go, Pasta Nostra provides a delicious and nutritious solution to satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds.

Embrace the change with Pasta Nostra, where convenience meets culinary excellence, and every meal is a celebration of Italian heritage.

Celebrating the Launch of National Spaghetti Bolognese Day (22 May)

Introduction: A New Tradition for the Nation

Today marks the inaugural celebration of National Spaghetti Bolognese Day! As 22 May dawns, kitchens across the UK are brimming with the tantalising aromas of rich, savoury Bolognese sauce simmering to perfection. 

This day is dedicated to honouring a dish that has become a beloved staple in British homes, a dish that brings families together and transforms ordinary meals into delightful feasts.

The History of Spaghetti Bolognese

Though Spaghetti Bolognese has its roots in Italy, it has been wholeheartedly embraced by the British public. Originating from the city of Bologna, the traditional “ragù alla Bolognese” is a meat-based sauce that has evolved over time. In the UK, this dish has taken on a unique character, often featuring minced beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a medley of herbs. The combination of these ingredients, served over al dente spaghetti, creates a comforting and hearty meal that is as versatile as it is delicious.

Why We Love Spaghetti Bolognese

There are countless reasons why Spaghetti Bolognese holds a special place in our hearts:

Comfort Food at Its Best: The rich, meaty sauce paired with tender spaghetti is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a dish that warms you up from the inside out.

Family Favourite: Spaghetti Bolognese is often a go-to for family dinners. It’s easy to prepare in large quantities, making it perfect for feeding hungry children and adults alike.

Customisable: Everyone has their own twist on Spaghetti Bolognese. Whether you prefer adding a splash of red wine, a hint of chilli, or a dash of cream, this dish can be tailored to suit individual tastes.

Affordable and Accessible: The ingredients for Spaghetti Bolognese are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making it an accessible dish for people from all walks of life.

How to Celebrate National Spaghetti Bolognese Day

There are myriad ways to join in the celebrations today:

Cook and Share: Prepare a big pot of Spaghetti Bolognese and invite friends and family over for a cosy dinner. Share your favourite recipe or try a new one together.

Recipe Exchange: Swap recipes with your neighbours, family members or colleagues. Discover the diverse variations of this classic dish and perhaps find a new favourite ingredient or technique.

Culinary Challenge: Host a Spaghetti Bolognese cook-off! Challenge your friends to create their best version of the dish and enjoy a tasting session to determine the ultimate Bolognese champion.

Community Feast: Organise a community gathering or potluck where everyone brings their version of Spaghetti Bolognese. Celebrate the unity and diversity within your community through the shared love of this delightful dish.

A Classic Recipe to Try

If you’re looking to celebrate National Spaghetti Bolognese Day with a tried-and-true recipe, here’s a classic version to get you started:

Ingredients:

500g minced beef

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

400g tin of chopped tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato purée

1 carrot, finely diced

1 celery stick, finely diced

150ml beef stock

1 glass of red wine (optional)

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

400g spaghetti

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese to serve

Method:

Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the onions, garlic, carrot, and celery until soft.

Add the minced beef and cook until browned.

Stir in the tomato purée, chopped tomatoes, beef stock, and red wine if using.

Add the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper.

Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Serve the sauce over the spaghetti and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion: A New Favourite Day

National Spaghetti Bolognese Day is more than just an excuse to enjoy a delicious meal; it’s a celebration of a dish that embodies comfort, family, and tradition. So, gather your loved ones, don your aprons, and let’s make this day a cherished annual event filled with laughter, joy, and, of course, mouth-watering Spaghetti Bolognese. Happy cooking!

The UKs favourite Italian food brand, Filippo Berio, has undertaken a survey of spaghetti bolognese fans and has created a top ten list of special ingredients that we Brits love to add to our spag bol:-

Worcester sauce (19%)

Chilli (15%)

Ketchup (14%)

Carrots (14%)

Gravy (7%)

Sweetcorn (6%)

Balsamic (6%)

Soy (6%)

Sugar (6%)

Cream (6%)

Voted one of the UKs top dishes, 1 in 5 of us reporting eating  spaghetti bolognese at least once every month, with over 1 in 10 (14%) enjoying it weekly. And of the 2,000 people surveyed no one had gone for longer than 12 months without a bowl of spag bol. 

We'd like to thank Fillippo Berio for sharing the results of their survey with us and our readers.

https://www.filippoberio.co.uk

The Basics of Homemade Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfecting Your Pasta-Making Skills

Pasta is a beloved staple in many households, but have you ever considered making it from scratch? 

Homemade pasta offers a freshness and flavor that store-bought varieties simply can't match. Plus, the process of making pasta from scratch can be incredibly rewarding and surprisingly simple. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the steps of making homemade pasta, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the art of shaping and cooking.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

The beauty of homemade pasta lies in its simplicity. All you need are a few basic ingredients:

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and texture of the pasta.

Eggs: Bind the flour together and add richness.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the pasta.

Optional: Semolina flour or tipo "00" flour for a finer texture.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Start by creating a mound of flour on a clean work surface. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add a pinch of salt. Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs until a shaggy dough forms.

Once the dough comes together, knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process helps develop the gluten in the flour, giving the pasta its characteristic chewiness.

Step 3: Rest the Dough

After kneading, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and shape.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has rested, divide it into smaller portions for easier handling. Using a rolling pin or pasta machine, roll out each portion of dough into thin sheets. If using a pasta machine, start with the widest setting and gradually decrease the thickness with each pass until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 5: Shape Your Pasta

Now comes the fun part – shaping your pasta! There are countless shapes and styles to choose from, including spaghetti, fettuccine, ravioli, and more. Experiment with different techniques and tools to create your favorite shapes.

Step 6: Cook and Enjoy

Once your pasta is shaped, it's time to cook it. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and carefully add the pasta. Fresh homemade pasta cooks much quicker than dried pasta, usually in just 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it and toss it with your favorite sauce or toppings. Whether you prefer a classic marinara, creamy Alfredo, or simple olive oil and garlic, homemade pasta is the perfect canvas for your culinary creations.

Making homemade pasta may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice and patience, anyone can master the art of pasta-making. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious, fresh pasta that will impress family and friends alike. So roll up your sleeves, dust off your rolling pin, and get ready to elevate your pasta game to new heights!

(Image courtesy of Miroro from Pixabay)

Tesco cuts price of pasta and cooking oil with thirty products reduced

The cut in prices comes after the retailer announced drops in the price of milk, butter and bread in recent weeks.                                     

Tesco has announced another significant price reduction for a number of store cupboard essentials. Tesco own brand pasta has been reduced by 15p in stores and online, and vegetable and sunflower oil have also been reduced by up to 15p, too.

The reductions come after the supermarket dropped the price of milk, butter, and bread in recent weeks as part of its commitment to provide great value for customers.

As families continue to watch their weekly spend, the retailer will cut the price of thirty pasta and oil products. The price cuts include dinner-time favourites like penne and spaghetti, down to 80p for 500g. Meanwhile a litre of vegetable oil will drop to £1.85.

A spokesperson said: "Tesco will continue to work closely with its suppliers to ensure customers can benefit from the best possible value."

Tesco Group Chief Product Officer, Ashwin Prasad, said: “As we see deflation coming through on key cupboard essentials like pasta and cooking oil, we're pleased to pass on these savings to customers."

“We hope by reducing prices on these thirty products which are bought week-in, week-out, we can help customers spend less."

“So whether you’re buying a branded favourite covered by our price lock, stocking up on essentials from Aldi Price Match, or treating yourself to an exclusive deal with Clubcard Prices – you can be confident of finding great value at Tesco.”

www.tesco.com.

You won't go pasta these! New! nSriracha Chilli, Original Mac N'cheese, from Kabuto at Tesco

This will be a fantastic find for your pantry! Brand new Kabuto Mac n'Cheese pasta pots. Bursting onto the shelves at Tesco, there's a sizzlingly hot Sriracha Chilli and creamy, oozy Original variations to tantalise the tastebuds and take you on a fun, fusion flavour journey. Available at Tesco stores now. 

These are  the first ever pasta meals from Kabuto, (normally known for its and they're the 'posh pot noodles') are easy peasy cheesy pots of goodness, perfect for Mac n'Cheese obsessed and for those busy souls who need a quick, decent meal packed to the brim with taste. 

It's the ultimate in comfort food heaven and is only ever four four minutes away! Stun your colleagues and make them go spinach pasta green with envy when you whip out this perfect pot at lunchtime, or look forward to a #macncheesemonday when you get home if you just haven't got the energy or time to cook.

After successful roll outs at Ocado and Sainsbury's, this will be Kabuto's third retail listing for their pasta pots. 

Kabuto has modernised this universally acclaimed and beloved dish and made it easier than ever to get your cheesy fix. What specialist items and tools do you required? Nothing more complicated that some cold water and a microwave. 

So, what does this mean, exactly? No more crunchy mac, just proper, soft, squishy tubes of pasta mixed with the creamiest of creamy sauces.

With a market beating 12g of protein too, this is a filling fix that will banish grumbling tummies. No more feeling hangry! 

And there are no additives, preservatives or artificial colours and stuffed full of ,quality ingredients, all Kabuto products are now 100% Vegetarian to cater for Veggie and flexitarian lifestyles too.

And when you're done, pop the whole thing into your recycling, because all of Kabuto's product packaging is100% recyclable and the UK business is carbon neutral, too.

Kabuto Founder Crispin Busk says:- “A Tesco listing for our new Mac N'Cheese is the dream. For far too long the instant mac and cheese at the supermarkets has meant crunchy pasta, bland sauces and no real taste at all, we knew it was time to revitalise and reinvent this delicious dish. 

"We've nailed noodles and it was time to perfect pot pasta, and we think we've smashed it with our new range. We can't wait for the nation's pasta fans, busy families and possibly even the odd hungover foodie to enjoy our latest range of deliciousness. Sales of convenience food is booming and consumers are looking for adventurous meals that don't break the bank."

Available at Sainsburys, Ocado and now Tesco, RRP £1.50 for 85g.

Check out where Mac n'Cheese lives for recipe ideas, hacks, fun and more: https://www.tiktok.com/@kabutonoodles 

Nutritional Values

Original

Fat 2g per 100g

Fat of wich saturates 1.1g per 100g

Salt 0.6g per 100g

Protein 4.6g per 100g

Calories 128 per 100g

Siracha

Fat 2g per 100g

Fat of which saturates 1g per 100g

Salt 0.7g per 100g

Protein 4.6g per 100g

Calories 127 per 100g