Cooking 101: Al Dente Pasta? Perfecto

Sometimes cooking the simplest foods prove challenging. Here, three easy steps to primo pasta. From spaghetti to penne, fettuccine to fusilli, cooking pasta is as easy as 1,2,3.

1. Bring a large, deep pot of water to a boil. At least 4 L/qt. water and 1 tsp (5 mL) salt per L/qt.

2. At boil, add dry pasta. With straight pastas, avoid bunching; break sticks in half or add to pot in loose spiral. Lightly stir to prevent noodles from sticking together. Bring water to a rapid simmer. Set a timer.

3. Angel hair or capellini will cook in about 5 minutes. Other shapes vary. Begin sampling at 8 minutes, then every 30 seconds, until desired doneness. Drain. Serve hot. Or shock with cold water if you are preparing for pasta salad.