After making fresh pasta a few times, it can be done in one’s sleep.  Most pasta machines on the market are standard, affordable and durable.  I start many days by making a ball of pasta dough to have later for a quick and fun meal.  Have the dough ready to roll for a dinner party to show off to your friends and even let them have a go.  I sometimes consider fresh pasta as an artisan vehicle for fresh veggies, meat, cheese or fish (of course).  If you really want to get crazy (or really impress your guests), the pasta can also be flavored with likewise ingredients.  I’ve made nettle leaf pasta, beet pasta, spinach pasta, saffron pasta, lemon and pepper pasta, and even shrimp pasta.

Recipe: Fresh Pasta, Fresh