How to Cook Pasta Perfectly
Al dente pasta that tastes good and holds sauce properly — the foolproof method.
3 min read
TechniquesMost people overcook pasta and undersalt the water. Two simple rules fix everything.
1
Use Plenty of Water
Use at least 4-6 quarts of water per pound of pasta.
2
Salt the Water Generously
Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt per gallon. It should taste like the sea.
3
Don't Add Oil
Oil coats pasta and prevents sauce from clinging. Skip it.
4
Cook to Al Dente
Start tasting 1-2 minutes before the package time. Tender but with a slight bite.
5
Reserve Pasta Water
Scoop out 1-2 cups before draining. The starchy water helps sauce cling.
6
Finish in the Sauce
Drain 1 minute early and finish cooking in the sauce, adding pasta water as needed.
Pro Tips
- Fresh pasta cooks in 2-4 minutes.
- Rinse only if making cold pasta salad.
- Long noodles for light sauces, short shapes for chunky.