How to Make Wagon Wheel Pasta

When you think of pasta, your mind probably does not automatically go to wagon wheel shapes. However, the strange shape can add a fun twist to your dinner! This blog article will teach you how to make this noodle dish and how it originated.

Basic Ingredients for Wagon Wheel Pasta

Ingredients:

-1 pound spaghetti or macaroni
-1/2 cup vegetable oil
-1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-1/4 teaspoon pepper

-1/4 teaspoon salt

-1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
-1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley leaves
-3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain well.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the oil. Add the pasta and cook, stirring, until coated with the oil. Add the cheese, pepper and salt and stir until the cheese is melted. Add the tomatoes and parsley and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve hot.

You will need a rolling pin, a chef’s knife, and a cutting board.

Tips and Tricks for Making Your Own Homemade Wagon Wheel Pasta

Making your own pasta can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get started.

1. Choose the right type of flour. You want a flour that is soft but not sticky, like all-purpose flour. Hard flours, such as durum wheat, will not give your pasta the desired texture. Try to use a blend of two or more types of flour to get the best results.

2. Be creative with your ingredients. You can use just about any type of vegetable or meat in your pasta dough, and you can even add fresh herbs for extra flavor. Try using ricotta cheese, pumpkin puree, or shredded chicken for an interesting variation.

3. Roll out the dough carefully. Too much pressure will cause the dough to become tough and chewy, while too little pressure will result in limp and weak pasta. Follow the instructions provided with your pasta machine for proper rolling technique. Be sure to keep a firm grip on the dough as you roll it out; over-working it will result in poorer quality pasta.

4. Cook the pasta properly!

Conclusion

Wagon wheel pasta is made by winding thin sheets of dough around a wooden rod or dowel, which creates the characteristic swirls and curves. It’s easy to make, tastes great, and can be served as an appetizer, main course, or side dish. Give it a try this holiday season!