Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Pasta Dough
- Prepare the Flour: On a clean surface, pour the flour and create a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well and add the salt.
- Mix the Dough: Using a fork, gently beat the eggs, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges of the well until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Once the dough starts to come together, use your hands to knead it for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour; if it’s too dry, add a few drops of water.
- Rest the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Pasta
- Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into four parts. Using a pasta roller or rolling pin, roll each piece into thin sheets (around 1/8-inch thick for spaghetti).
- Cut the Dough: Use a knife or a pasta machine attachment to cut the sheets into thin spaghetti strands.
- Dry the Pasta: Place the cut pasta strands on a floured surface or hang them to dry for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and if using fresh tomatoes, add them here along with the tomato paste. Stir in the sugar, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Add the fresh pasta to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles float to the surface. Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried pasta, so keep a close eye on it.
- Drain and Combine: Drain the pasta and add it directly to the simmering sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta in the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Plate the spaghetti, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy: Serve with crusty bread and a green salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal!
Tips for Perfect Homemade Spaghetti
- Work with Small Batches: Rolling and cutting the dough in smaller portions makes it easier to achieve thin, even strands.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer thicker pasta, roll the dough a little thicker or use a fettuccine cutter for wider noodles.
- Store Leftover Sauce: If you make extra sauce, it freezes beautifully. Store in an airtight container for up to three months.
Customizing Your Spaghetti
Homemade spaghetti is endlessly adaptable:
- Add Meat: For a heartier sauce, add browned ground beef or sausage.
- Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Homemade spaghetti is an incredibly satisfying dish, made even more rewarding by the care that goes into crafting fresh pasta. Each bite brings a comforting yet vibrant taste that celebrates simple, fresh ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to an Italian classic, this homemade spaghetti recipe will bring warmth and flavor to your table. Enjoy!
