Can you use sourdough for pasta?

Absolutely! In fact, that’s exactly what this sourdough pasta recipe is all about. Instead of using only eggs and flour, the dough includes a sourdough starter —either active or discard. The natural fermentation process adds flavor, breaks down gluten, and makes the dough softer and more elastic. You don’t need commercial yeast or baking powder; the starter does all the work when it comes to texture and subtle tang. Whether you're a sourdough pro or just beginning, it’s a fantastic way to stretch the usefulness of your starter and create something totally unexpected.

Is sourdough pasta better for you?

Many people find that pasta made with a sourdough pasta recipe is easier to digest and less likely to cause bloating. That’s thanks to the lactic acid bacteria in the starter, which help pre-digest gluten and reduce anti-nutrients like phytic acid. While it’s not gluten-free, fermented pasta may be gentler on the digestive system—especially when compared to store-bought pasta made from refined flours. It also has a slightly lower glycemic index, making it a smart choice for those watching blood sugar. So yes—it's often considered a healthier alternative, especially when paired with whole grain flours or seasonal veggies

Do Italians use sourdough?

They sure do—but not always in pasta. While most traditional Italian pasta is made with flour and egg or water, Italians have a long history of fermentation. Sourdough—known in Italy as “lievito madre” —is commonly used in bread and pastries, especially in rustic and regional cooking. That said, some traditional Italian kitchens do incorporate long rests or slight fermentation in their pasta dough. So while the classic sourdough pasta recipe may not be widespread in Italy, the idea of using time and natural fermentation is very much in line with Italian culinary philosophy.

What not to do with sourdough?

Great question! Whether you're baking bread or working on a sourdough pasta recipe , here are a few things to avoid: Don’t rush the process. Fermentation takes time, and skipping it means missing out on flavor and texture. Don’t use a weak starter. Make sure your sourdough is bubbly and active (or at least fresh discard). Don’t over-ferment. Too much time can make the dough overly acidic, sticky, and difficult to work with. Don’t overcook. Fermented dough cooks faster—check at 2 minutes to avoid mushy noodles. Avoiding these missteps will make your sourdough pasta experience smooth and rewarding. Like I always say: be patient, trust your senses, and enjoy the process. Check out this sourdough troubleshooting guide if you’re running into issues with dough behavior or flavor.

Sourdough Pasta Recipe: The Best Homemade Twist for Health & Flavor

Name: Sourdough Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 12 h
Yield: 2-4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup semolina flour; 2 large eggs + 1 yolk; 1/2 cup sourdough starter; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp olive oil; 1-2 tbsp water

Description

This sourdough pasta recipe is a flavorful and gut-friendly twist on traditional homemade pasta. Made with a natural sourdough starter, this dough ferments slowly to develop a rich taste and tender texture. Perfect for those looking to enhance digestibility and elevate their pasta game, this recipe is ideal for fettuccine, lasagna, ravioli, and more. Includes simple ingredients, fermentation tips, and step-by-step instructions for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup semolina flour
2 large eggs + 1 yolk
1/2 cup active sourdough starter
1/2 tsp salt1 tsp olive oil (optional)
1–2 tbsp water (as needed)

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Instructions

Make a flour well and mix in eggs, starter, salt, and oil.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
Wrap and ferment 6–12 hours.
Roll thin and cut.

Cook in salted boiling water for 2–3 minutes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 0.5g
Sodium: 180 mg
Fat: 6g
Protein: 10g

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Nutrition

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