How to cook perfect pasta everytime   by Shauna Hanus

Finally you can stop wondering how do I cook my pasta. There are a few simple rules to follow that will have you cooking pasta pleasing meals each and every time.

First and most important use plenty of water. Using too little water will make for sticky gooey pasta. You should start with about 4 quarts of fresh cool water. This means take out that big spaghetti pot and stop using your favorite sauce pan. As you portion out the pasta you should cook about 2 ounces per person. Bring the fresh cool water to a rolling boil. Once the water is boiling, but before adding the noodles, add 1 heaping tablespoon of salt for every four servings. Always add the salt to the water. If you wait until the pasta is cooked you will end up with salty noodles. By adding the salt now the pasta can absorb the salt and your pasta will taste better. Finally add the pasta, allow the water to soften the noodles and stir gently. Never allow the noodles to stick to the bottom of the pan.

Angle hair pasta and spaghetti should take about 8-10 minutes to cook; heavier noodles such as penne can take up to 20-25 minutes. To test for doneness just scoop out one noodle and taste it. You can cook the noodles a couple of minutes longer for softer pasta.

Once the pasta is cooked drain it in a large colander or strainer. Immediately pour the pasta back into the hot pot it cooked in. Never run the pasta under water, this only serves to weaken the taste. In the pot mix a small amount of butter and sauce in with the pasta. This will keep the pasta moist until it is time to serve. The sauce should be added in larger quantities at the table or as you are serving.

About the Author

Shauna Hanus is a gourmet cook who specializes in creating gourmet meal plans. She has extensive experience cooking with easy to find grocery items to create delightful gourmet meals. She is also the publisher of a no cost bi-monthly gourmet newsletter. Her newsletter is always fun and informational packed with tips and trivia you can use everyday. http://www.gourmayeats.com