The Perfect Pasta

"Al dente" is used to describe pasta that is cooked to perfection. Literally translated, it means "to the tooth". In other words, it should be firm to the bite. When pasta is overcooked, it is limp and not appetizing. But now, cooking pasta is easier than ever.

Try these helpful hints:

* Always use the right amount of water when boiling pasta; just follow the directions on the package. This will help dilute the starch released during cooking and therefore prevent sticking.

* When using a small pot to cook spaghetti, don't cut the noodles to fit them into the pan. Hold spaghetti in a bunch and put one end into the water. As the ends of the pasta soften, bend the pieces and feed the rest in gradually or coil them around using a wooden spoon or fork until they are submerged.

* Drain pasta quickly and use immediately. Do not rinse pasta in cold water unless it will be served cold. The cool splash removes surface starch, which helps the sauce hold on or cling to the pasta.