Pasta is a staple in most households, and for a good reason — it’s quick and easy to cook, delicious to eat, and amazingly versatile. But cooking the perfect flavor-packed pasta isn’t always as simple as throwing noodles into a pot of boiling water. Here are tips on making sure you’re eating the very best pasta every single time.

Measure your Water

Many people don’t realize that the amount of water used for pasta is just as significant as the type of pasta you’re cooking. The right amount of water used in cooking dough results in a more delicate and flavorful finished product. The boiling process should take between 5 and 8 minutes, depending on whether you’re cooking spaghetti, fettuccine, or macaroni. Don’t add salt to your pasta until just before the end of the cooking time.

Taste the Water

The best way to tell if your pasta will be perfectly cooked is by tasting your cooking water. It should taste slightly salty, but not too salty. If it tastes too salty, add more water and taste again until it’s just right.

Don’t Rinse the Pasta after You Drain it.

Rinsing pasta after you’ve drained it can remove up to 60 percent of its flavor. The flavor molecules are still in the pasta; they need a little help to stick to the surface. For better flavor retention, you should let your pasta sit in a colander for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Cook Your Pasta in the appropriate Pan

Not all types of pasta are the same, so cooking them in the right pot is crucial. Spaghetti should be cooked in a wide, shallow pan with a lid to allow it to steam and keep it moist and tender. Fettuccine should also be cooked in a wide pan with plenty of room to maneuver and turn over.

Pasta is one of the most versatile, filling, and delicious foods you can make. When cooked properly, it can be the star of your next entrée. Follow these tips, and you’ll enjoy your pasta in no time!