Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook pasta
Knowing how to cook pasta properly is the foundation for many a great meal. Simply follow a few basic steps using a big pot with lots of water, more salt than you think you need, and watching the clock. Quick and simple recipe on cooking pasta to al dente.
Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 280kcal
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Pasta uncooked
- 4-6 Quarts Water
- 1-2 Teaspoons Salt
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with lots of water. Make sure there is enough to cover the pasta. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.4-6 Quarts Water
- Once the water is boiling, add a generous amount of salt. This adds flavor to the pasta as it cooks. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1-2 tablespoons of salt for every 4-6 quarts of water.1-2 Teaspoons Salt
- Carefully add the pasta to the boiling water. Stir gently to prevent the pasta from sticking together.1 Pound Pasta
- Throughout the cooking process, stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from clumping and sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Begin checking for doneness a few minutes before the package’s recommended cooking time. Pasta should be cooked until it is al dente, meaning it’s tender but still slightly firm to the bite.
- To test if the pasta is ready, carefully remove a piece with a fork or spoon and taste it. It should have a slight resistance when bitten into.
- Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, immediately drain it in a colander placed in the sink. Shake the colander gently to remove excess water.
- Transfer the cooked pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Serve it immediately with your favorite sauce, toppings, or accompaniments.
Your Own Private Notes
Notes
5 Different Ways to Cook Pasta and the Time it Takes
Here are 5 different ways to cook pasta along with the cooking times. Boiling on the Stove Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions or until al dente, usually around 8-12 minutes depending on the type and thickness of the pasta. One-Pot Pasta In a large pot or skillet, combine pasta, water, and any desired seasonings or sauce ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, usually around 10-15 minutes. Baking in the Oven Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine uncooked pasta with sauce and any desired ingredients in a baking dish, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged in liquid. Cover with foil and bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbling. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly if desired. Pro tip. A general guideline is to use about 2 1/2 to 3 cups of liquid for every 8 ounces (about 225 grams) of uncooked pasta. However, this can vary depending on the recipe and the type of pasta being used. Steaming Place a heatproof bowl containing the pasta in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Steam the pasta for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s cooked to your desired doneness. Microwave Cook the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl with water for about 2-3 minutes per ounce of pasta, stirring occasionally until al dente.Nutrition
Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 424mg | Potassium: 169mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 1mg