Tonnarelli Recipe

Tonnarelli is a delicious type of pasta that originates from the beautiful region of Lazio in Italy, particularly in the city of Rome. This thick, square-shaped noodle is similar to spaghetti but has a unique texture that makes it perfect for holding sauces. Tonnarelli has become increasingly popular around the world, especially among pasta lovers who appreciate its hearty bite and the ability to soak up flavors.

Historically, tonnarelli was a humble dish prepared by families with a passion for traditional Italian cooking. Its simplicity and comfort make it a beloved recipe in homes and restaurants alike. The appeal of tonnarelli lies in its versatility; it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sauces, whether creamy, tomato-based, or earthy.

In this blog post, we will guide you through making your own tonnarelli from scratch, so you can enjoy a taste of Italy right in your kitchen!

Ingredients

*Tip:* If you have a gluten sensitivity, you can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center.
– Crack the eggs into the well. If you’re using olive oil, add it now.
– Using a fork, whisk the eggs gently, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges until a dough begins to form.

2. Knead the Dough:
– Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead it with your hands for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.
– Wrap the kneaded dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the pasta easier to roll out.

3. Roll Out the Dough:
– After resting, divide the dough into four pieces. Keep the pieces you aren’t using covered to prevent them from drying out.
– Roll out each piece with a pasta machine or a rolling pin to about 1/8 inch thick. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.

4. Cut the Tonnarelli:
– Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into strips about 1/4 inch wide. Make sure to dust the cut pasta with flour to keep it from sticking together.

5. Cook the Tonnarelli:
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tonnarelli and cook for 2-4 minutes until they float to the top and are al dente (cooked but still firm).
– Drain the pasta and reserve some of the pasta water to adjust your sauce’s consistency.

6. Serve:
– Toss the tonnarelli with your favorite sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Enjoy your delicious homemade tonnarelli!

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

– For a richer flavor, try using semolina flour instead of all-purpose flour.
– You can customize your tonnarelli by adding herbs like basil or parsley to the dough for added color and taste.
– Always taste your pasta while cooking to avoid overcooking. Homemade tonnarelli cooks faster than store-bought pasta.
– Avoid sticking! Dust flour on the pasta after cutting and keep it separated.

FAQs

What is tonnarelli?

Tonnarelli is a type of pasta that is similar to spaghetti but is thicker and square-shaped, making it perfect for holding various sauces.

Can I make tonnarelli without eggs?

Yes! You can make a vegan version by substituting eggs with water and using a simple recipe with just flour and water.

How do I store leftover tonnarelli?

Store cooked tonnarelli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a little olive oil or in the microwave.

What sauces go well with tonnarelli?

Tonnarelli pairs well with a variety of sauces, including tomato sauces, creamy sauces, or even pestos and olive oil-based dressings.

Can I freeze tonnarelli?

Yes! You can freeze uncooked tonnarelli for up to 2 months. Just make sure to dust them with flour and store them in a freezer-safe bag.

How long does it take to cook tonnarelli?

It typically takes 2-4 minutes to cook tonnarelli in boiling salted water. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!

Is tonnarelli gluten-free?

Traditional tonnarelli contains gluten, but you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free flour instead.

What can I add to tonnarelli for extra flavor?

You can add grated cheese, fresh herbs, or spices to your tonnarelli for an extra burst of flavor before serving.

Can I use a pasta machine to make tonnarelli?

Absolutely! A pasta machine is a great tool to help you roll out the dough evenly and achieve the perfect thickness.

What dishes can I make with tonnarelli?

You can make a variety of dishes with tonnarelli, such as cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper), tonnarelli all’amatriciana (with tomato and guanciale), or simply toss it with garlic and olive oil.

Now that you know how to make tonnarelli, gather your ingredients and enjoy this delightful pasta dish with family or friends! Buon appetito!