She Strengthens

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Perfect Pasta

It’s Not as Simple as You Think

Cooking pasta may seem like a no-brainer, but achieving that perfect al dente texture can be a challenge. From selecting the right pot to seasoning the water, there are many factors to consider. Get it right, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious, restaurant-quality meal. Get it wrong, and you’ll be stuck with a plate of mushy, unappetizing noodles.

The Secret to Success Lies in the Details

To cook pasta like a pro, follow these easy tips:

Choose the Right Pot

Select a large pot that gives your pasta plenty of room to move around. This is the perfect opportunity to break out that 8- or 12-quart stockpot.

Use the Right Amount of Water

Use 5-6 quarts of water for a standard 16 oz. package of pasta. Don’t be tempted to use less water to speed up the cooking process. Your pasta needs plenty of H2O to cook evenly.

Salt the Water

Add at least 1 tablespoon of salt to the water for every 6 quarts. This will bring out the flavor of your pasta. And don’t worry, it won’t make your dish too salty.

Bring the Water to a Boil

Bring the water to a full, rolling boil before adding your pasta. This will help cook your noodles evenly and prevent them from sticking together.

Stir, Stir, Stir

Stir your pasta frequently to prevent it from clumping together. This is especially important during the first few minutes of cooking.

Test the Pasta

Check your pasta for doneness 2 minutes before the recommended cooking time. Take a strand out of the pot, let it cool, and bite into it. If it still has a bit of crunch, it’s not quite ready.

Save That Pasta Water

Before draining your pasta, scoop out a cup or two of the starchy water. This can be used to thin out sauces or help them bind to your noodles.

Drain, Toss, and Serve

Drain your pasta, add your sauce, and toss to coat. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

• Cooking times can vary depending on the type and shape of pasta you’re using.
• Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried pasta, typically in 2-3 minutes.
• Stuffed pasta, like ravioli, will float to the surface when it’s cooked.
• Don’t add oil to your pasta water, as it can prevent sauces from clinging to your noodles.
• Don’t rinse your pasta after cooking, as this can wash away the starches that help sauces bind.

A Game-Changing Technique

Now that you’ve mastered the classic method, it’s time to try something new. Cooking pasta in a sauté pan with a small amount of water is a game-changer. It defies everything we’ve been taught, but trust us, it’s worth trying.