How Long Should You Cook Fresh Pasta For?

Here’s a simple guide to making your own homemade pasta dough:

Ingredients Required (For 2 Servings)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs

Steps:

• Pour the flour onto a clean surface and make a well in the center. Crack the eggs into this well. Using a fork, gently beat the eggs and begin incorporating the flour from the edges of the well.
• Once the egg mixture starts to come together, use your hands to knead it for about 8-10 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out.
• After resting, divide the dough into smaller pieces. 
• Roll out each piece to your desired thickness, then cut your pasta sheets into your chosen shape. (you can use a pasta machine or a rolling pin and knife to roll pasta).

How to Cook Pasta

Cooking fresh pasta is easy. Here’s how to do it:

• Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Gently place your fresh egg pasta into the boiling water. Stir it once or twice to prevent sticking.
• After about 2 minutes, start checking the pasta. It should be cooked ‘al dente’, which is tender on the outside but still slightly firm to the bite. If you’re cooking filled pasta such as tortellini, tortelloni, or ravioli, it might take a bit longer to cook.
• Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it immediately. Set aside a cup of pasta water for your sauce.

How to Make a Basic White Pasta Sauce

Here’s how to make a basic white pasta sauce, often known as Alfredo or béchamel:

Ingredients Required:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups milk (preferably whole milk)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

• In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure not to let it brown.
• Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk together. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes. 
• Gradually add the milk to the flour mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
• Continue to cook the sauce on medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
• Add salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, stir it in until it’s melted.

How to Make a Basic Red Pasta Sauce

Here’s how to make a basic red pasta sauce, also known as marinara:

Ingredients Required:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 can (about 14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• A pinch of sugar
• Salt
• Pepper
• Optional: a teaspoon of dried basil or oregano.

Steps:

• Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Fill the empty tomato can a quarter full with water and swirl it around to catch any remaining tomato, then add it to the pan.
• Add the pinch of sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Stir well to combine.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook, uncovered, for about 20-30 minutes. 
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Summary

Keep in mind, that fresh pasta’s cooking time can vary slightly, but it usually takes around 1-3 minutes. So, when you’re cooking it, be sure to keep an eye on it and taste it as you go. And for effortless pasta making every time, check out MisterChef Pasta Maker. With its user-friendly design and precise settings, making your favorite pasta recipes has never been easier. Shop with us today.