How Fresh Pasta Is Made: The Tradition of Emilia-Romagna’s Sfogline

Who Are the Sfogline?

The sfogline (singular: sfoglina) are masters of handmade pasta, a title earned through years of practice and dedication. Using just a rolling pin (mattarello) and a wooden board (spianatoia), they transform simple ingredients—flour and eggs—into silky sheets of dough, known as sfoglia, that form the foundation of Emilia-Romagna’s most beloved dishes.

The Importance of Pasta in Emilia-Romagna

In this region, pasta is more than a staple; it’s a celebration of local ingredients and culinary pride. Traditional dishes like tortellini, tagliatelle, and lasagna owe their flavor and texture to the care and precision of the sfogline. For instance, the width of tagliatelle is traditionally said to match 1/12,270th of the height of Bologna’s iconic Asinelli Tower—a playful yet serious nod to the region’s attention to detail.

The Art of Rolling Out the Perfect Sfoglia

Crafting the perfect sfoglia is a blend of technique and intuition. The sfoglina kneads the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, then rolls it out into a thin, even sheet. The process is entirely manual, requiring strength and precision to achieve the ideal thickness. Each pasta shape has its own requirements, and the sfogline know exactly how to adapt the dough for different recipes, whether it’s delicate ravioli or sturdy pappardelle.

More Than a Craft: A Living Tradition

For many families in Emilia-Romagna, making fresh pasta is a communal activity tied to holidays and celebrations. It’s not uncommon to find multiple generations gathered around a table, sharing stories and laughter while shaping tortellini. The sfogline play a key role in preserving this tradition, keeping the art alive in an age of industrial production.

Experience It Yourself

If you’re planning a trip to Emilia-Romagna, don’t miss the chance to attend a pasta-making workshop with local sfogline. Not only will you learn the techniques behind this ancient craft, but you’ll also get to savor traditional dishes prepared with your own hands—a memory as rich and flavorful as the pasta itself!

This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the artistry of fresh pasta and introduce you to the warmth of Emilia-Romagna’s culinary heritage:  Click here