The Easiest Pasta Shapes to Make at Home: A Beginner’s Guide

Are you looking to try your hand at making homemade pasta but aren't sure where to start? Look no further! The world of pasta making can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Two of the easiest pasta shapes to make at home are pappardelle and parpadelle. These flat, wide ribbons are simple to prepare and perfect for a variety of sauces. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make both of them and why they’re such great choices for beginner pasta makers.

Parpadelle: The Perfect Starting Point for Homemade Pasta

Parpadelle is a type of Italian flat, wide ribbon pasta that is incredibly easy to make. You can create this delightful pasta just by using a rolling pin and some basic kitchen tools. The process involves flattening a pasta dough into a sheet, then cutting it into strips. It’s that simple!

To make parpadelle, first, prepare your pasta dough. Knead and roll it until it is smooth and elastic. Then, use your rolling pin to flatten the dough into a thin sheet. Once the dough is flat, use a knife or pizza cutter to cut it into long, wide ribbons. These strips can be slightly narrower or wider depending on your preference. The simplicity of the technique makes parpadelle an excellent choice for beginners.

Pappardelle: Wide Ribbons with Lots of Flavor

Pappardelle is another flat, wide ribbon pasta that is relatively easy to make at home. Unlike parpadelle, pappardelle is typically made from sheets of pasta that are easily cut into ribbons without needing a pasta machine. This makes it an even more accessible option for those new to pasta making.

To create pappardelle, follow these steps:

Prepare and roll out your pasta dough into a thin sheet. Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to cut the sheet into wide, flat ribbons. The width of the ribbons can be adjusted to your liking, but pappardelle is typically quite wide. Once cut, the pappardelle can be cooked and served immediately or stored in the freezer for later use.

Pappardelle, with its wide, flat sheets, is an excellent pasta shape when paired with hearty, flavorful sauces such as a garlic and oil sauce or fresh pesto. The wide surface area of the pasta allows the sauce to be evenly distributed, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Why Choose These Easy Pasta Shapes?

Homemade pappardelle and parpadelle are not only easy to make but also offer a simple way to enjoy a fresh, authentic taste of Italy in your own kitchen. They are versatile shapes that can be used with a wide range of sauces and ingredients, making them perfect for beginners or experienced cooks alike.

Both shapes are budget-friendly, as they require basic ingredients and simple tools. Plus, making pasta from scratch is a rewarding experience that can help you appreciate the nuances of flavor and texture that store-bought pasta might lack. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a small gathering, pappardelle and parpadelle will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave a lasting impression.

Ready to give these easy pasta shapes a try? Start by experimenting with different sauces and toppings to find your favorite combination. You’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily you can become a pasta-making pro!