Red Wine Pasta Dough: A Vibrant Twist on Homemade Noodles
There’s something deeply comforting about homemade noodles. It’s warm, it’s carby, and it’s the kind of thing that makes your kitchen smell like love. Whether you’re rolling it out by hand or letting your trusty KitchenAid do the heavy lifting, pasta-making is one of those rituals that feels like a hug from long ago. My aunt used to make pasta all the time—there may have been wine in the dough once or twice, but not a word would’ve been said about it, not—a—word.
A Little Wine, A Lot of Dough
Red wine pasta dough isn’t some fancy culinary invention—it’s just a fun, flavorful twist on a classic. The wine adds a subtle richness and a beautiful burgundy hue that makes your homemade noodles look like they’ve been kissed by a vineyard. It’s also a great excuse to open a bottle while you cook. Not that you needed one.
Ingredients for Red Wine Pasta Dough
To make your own batch of wine-tinted noodles, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (Cabernet, Merlot, or whatever’s open)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions: How to Make Homemade Noodles with Wine
Step 1: Make a Flour Well
On a clean surface, pile your flour and create a well in the center. This is where the magic happens.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Wine
Crack the eggs into the well, pour in the wine, and sprinkle in the salt. Use a fork to gently whisk the eggs and wine together, slowly pulling in flour from the edges.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Once it starts to come together, knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, add flour. If it’s dry, splash in a little more wine. You’re looking for a dough that feels like playdough but smells like a dinner party.
Step 4: Rest the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This gives the gluten time to relax—and you, too.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
Use a pasta machine or rolling pin to flatten the dough to your desired thickness. Cut into noodles—fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even ravioli if you’re feeling ambitious.
Step 6: Cook and Serve
Boil in salted water for 2–3 minutes. Serve with your favorite sauce. Butter and garlic are always a win, but a splash of wine in the sauce wouldn’t hurt either.
Why Homemade Pasta Is Worth It
Making pasta from scratch is one of those things that feels intimidating until you do it. Then it’s just flour, eggs, and a little confidence. The wine adds flair, but the real magic is in the process—kneading, rolling, and watching something simple become something special.
Homemade noodles are comforting, impressive, and surprisingly easy. Plus, they make your kitchen feel like a cozy trattoria. Keep your kitchen fresh, y’all.
Final Thoughts: Pasta Is a Hug You Can Eat
Red wine pasta dough is a little more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder that cooking doesn’t have to be perfect to be joyful. Whether you’re channeling a tipsy aunt and her timeless eggplant lasagna or just looking for a new way to spice up dinner, this dish delivers. So, pour a glass, roll some dough, and make some beautiful homemade noodles. Your kitchen—your dinner guests—and your soul—will thank you.
