Now that you have mastered the fresh pasta recipe let’s move on to some sauces that will elevate that fresh pasta to a whole new level.

Pasta Carbonara or Spaghetti alla Carbonara is simply pasta with eggs, cheese, bacon and black pepper. It may sound simple, but those ingredients are so transformative when added to fresh pasta it is unbelievable. This version calls for pancetta and Pecorino Romano but feel free to substitute a favorite bacon or other semi-hard cheese.

Pasta Carbonara

1 full recipe Fresh Pasta

10 ounces Pancetta, roughly chopped

3 large Eggs

1 cup Pecorino Romano Cheese, grated

1 tsp (or more, if you prefer) Black Pepper, freshly ground

Salt to taste

In a small bowl, mix eggs, cheese and black pepper. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add pancetta and brown slightly. Cook pasta according to directions. When pasta is cooked transfer it to the pan containing the pancetta and stir in egg mixture. To this add a tablespoon of the pasta cooking water. At this point remove from the heat and allow the residual heat to slightly cook the egg mixture. It is important to note that the egg mixture may not cook all the way and anyone with a sensitivity to raw eggs should pass on this dish. Serve immediately on warmed plates. Top with more Pecorino Romano.

The egg and cheese in this dish soak into the fresh noodles and transform them into something heavenly. The salt and fat from the pancetta give the dish a hearty, satisfying finish.

Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil

Another simple yet fabulous dish to make with fresh pasta is Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil. This dish is so simple and is really best when tomatoes are in season. Simply dice fresh tomatoes and basil and combine with the best olive oil you have. A lighter oil works best here because it will really let the fresh ingredients shine. Cook the fresh pasta according to directions, when done toss it with the tomato basil mixture. Season with salt and pepper. This dish is excellent served hot but takes on an even more complex flavor when served room temperature.

For an even more simple preparation; cook fresh pasta according to directions and transfer it directly to a serving bowl. Dress the pasta with olive oil to taste and a pat of butter. While this is still hot, add a clove of minced garlic, a handful each of chopped basil and Parmesan cheese. Toss and serve immediately.