Galaxy Pasta Charcoal Swirl (Printable Version)

Colorful, cosmic pasta ribbons paired with velvety cream sauce and a dramatic charcoal swirl.

# Components:

→ Pasta Dough

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2–1 teaspoon food-grade activated charcoal powder
06 - Gel food coloring (purple, blue, pink; a few drops each)

→ Sauce

07 - 1 cup heavy cream
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - 1 clove garlic, minced
11 - Salt, to taste
12 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnishes

13 - Edible gold dust (optional)
14 - Fresh basil leaves

# Preparation steps:

01 - On a clean surface, mound flour and create a well in the center. Add eggs, olive oil, and salt. Gradually incorporate ingredients to form a dough. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into four equal portions. Mix activated charcoal into one portion to create a deep black dough. Tint the remaining portions with purple, blue, and pink gel food coloring. Wrap each portion individually in plastic wrap and allow to rest for 20 minutes.
02 - Roll each colored dough portion into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin. Layer the sheets and gently press them together. Roll the layered dough into a log, then slice into ribbons to reveal the swirl pattern. Lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.
03 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the prepared pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
04 - In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
05 - Toss the cooked pasta with the prepared sauce until evenly coated. Plate the pasta. If desired, lightly dust with edible gold and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Creates a stunning visual impact that's Instagram-worthy
  • Surprisingly straightforward technique once you understand the layering method
  • Customizable colors to match any theme or occasion
  • Delicious creamy sauce complements the visual drama
02 -
  • Food-grade activated charcoal is safe in small amounts but should be used sparingly
  • This pasta is best served immediately as the colors are most vibrant when fresh
  • The technique works with any pasta shape but ribbons show the swirl pattern best
03 -
  • Work in a cool room as the dough becomes more difficult to handle when warm. If your kitchen is hot, place the colored dough portions in the refrigerator for 5 minutes before rolling.
  • When creating your color layers, think about color theory – placing complementary colors next to each other creates the most dramatic swirl effect.
  • For the most professional-looking results, invest in a pasta machine rather than hand-rolling, as consistent thickness is key to even cooking and visual impact.
  • Finally, don't rush the kneading process – properly developed gluten creates the perfect texture that holds up to the sauce.

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