How to Cook Pasta Like a Pro
Serves 6
15 mins cook
15 mins total
How to cook pasta, 101! Learn the basic steps for cooking pasta from start to finish, with pro techniques for cooking times, salting pasta water and equipment.
Yield: One pound pasta, enough for 4-6 people as a main course
Get FREE mobile app to save your favorite recipes
Scan QR code to download mobile
Bring the water to a rolling boil in a 5-6 quart tall pot. Add the salt and stir it in to dissolve.
Add the pasta to the pot and stir. Bring the water back to a boil, then adjust the heat to a lively simmer. Cook the pasta uncovered until al dente (use the time chart above as a guideline), stirring it frequently. Use a slotted spoon to sample the pasta for doneness as it cooks.
Before draining, scoop out some of the pasta cooking water and reserve for your sauce recipe, if needed. The starchy water helps "marry" the pasta with the sauce.
Transfer the pasta to a pan or serving bowl and combine with your sauce. Serve hot pasta right away!
