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dried spaghetti in a pot with water
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How to Cook Pasta

Learn How to Cook Pasta perfectly. Follow my step-by-step tutorial to cook spaghetti, or other types and serve with sauce or in a pasta salad!
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 210kcal
Author Yumna Jawad

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pasta dried
  • 6 quarts water
  • 3 tablespoons salt

Instructions

  • Fill a pot with six quarts water, bring to a boil.
  • Add the salt, followed by the dried pasta.
  • Stir until the water returns to a boil.

With a Sauce or Cooling For Later

  • Cook for one minute less than the packaged instructions.
  • Strain and cool briefly, but do not rinse. Toss in olive oil.
  • When ready to use, add to warm sauce and finish cooking or chill.

With a Cold Salad

  • Cook according to packaged instructions
  • Strain and cool briefly, but do not rinse. Toss in olive oil.
  • Place in refrigerator covered.

Video

Notes

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Photo Credit: Erin Jensen

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2655mg | Potassium: 126mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 1mg