Pasta making is a simple process that involves mixing flour and water to create a dough. The most common type of flour used is semolina, which gives pasta its firm texture. Once the dough is kneaded until smooth, it is rolled out and cut into various shapes, such as fettuccine or penne. After cutting, the pasta can be cooked immediately or dried for later use. Cooking typically involves boiling the pasta in salted water until it reaches the desired tenderness. Freshly made pasta often cooks faster than dried varieties, making it a popular choice for quick meals.