Perfectly Boiled Pasta

Learn how to cook pasta so it’s perfectly al dente every time, the ideal base for any sauce or dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) dry pasta
• 4–6 quarts water
• 1 tablespoon salt
• Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Bring 4–6 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot.
2. Add the salt to the boiling water to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
3. Gently add the pasta to the boiling water and stir to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally.
5. Test the pasta by tasting it 1–2 minutes before the suggested cooking time. It should be tender but firm to the bite (al dente).
6. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander. Do not rinse unless the recipe specifically requires it.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite sauce or seasoning.