Start by boiling a large pot of water and adding salt to it. Then, add the desired amount of pasta while stirring every once in a while to prevent it from sticking. Cook for about 8–12 minutes, depending on the type and the package instructions. The pasta needs to be al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander. Mix it with your choice of sauce or whatever you wish to serve it with.

How long does it take to cook pasta?

Pasta usually takes 8–12 minutes to cook, but this can vary depending on the type and thickness of the pasta. Smaller varieties tend to cook faster, whereas thicker ones may require more time. You should always check the package instructions for specific cooking times.

Can you cook pasta in the microwave?

Yes, you can cook pasta in the microwave. Begin by placing it in a large microwave-safe bowl and pouring boiling water on top. Microwave the pasta on high for 4 - 5 minutes, then stir well to prevent it from sticking. Continue heating it in two-minute intervals at high power, stirring after each interval. It should take around 9–10 minutes to achieve the al dente consistency.

How to keep pasta from sticking together?

To keep the pasta from sticking together, make sure to use a large pot and plenty of water. If there is not enough water and space, the pasta will not have room to separate from each other. This causes the water to become too starchy, resulting in pasta that sticks together. But there are more solutions to the problem. Make sure to salt the water generously, stir the pasta often to separate any clumps, and avoid using oil, as this can make it harder for the sauce to adhere to the pasta.

Why add salt to pasta water?

Adding salt to the pasta water prevents the starches in the pasta from clumping together. As a bonus, it also adds flavo u r to the pasta. Aim for about 1–2 tablespoons per litr e of water. Make sure to add the salt as soon as the water boils.

How much water to boil pasta?

For cooking 1 00 grams of dry pasta, use at least 500 ml of water or up to 1 litre . This gives the pasta enough room to cook evenly and prevents it from sticking together. Make sure to salt the water as well, as this helps to flavo u r the pasta.

Should pasta be rinsed after cooking?

No, pasta should not be rinsed after cooking. Rinsing removes the starch that makes the pasta sticky. It also cools off the pasta and makes it harder for the sauce to stick to it. However, if you are preparing a dish like a cold pasta salad, it is okay to rinse it.

How to know when pasta is cooked?

There are a few ways to determine if the pasta is properly cooked . One way is to check for an “al dente” texture, meaning the pasta should be firm to the bite. Simply take a bite to assess the texture. You can also cut one in half; if it is cooked firm and slightly chewy, you will notice an area that is lighter in colo u r than the rest of the pasta. The slight difference in colo u r indicates it has reached ideal firmness.

Where is pasta originally from?

Pasta is believed to have originated in Italy around 400 BCE. Over the centuries, it has become a global phenomenon, enjoyed by people worldwide for lunch, dinner, and special occasions. Although some claim that pasta originated in China, Italian pasta and Chinese noodles, despite their similar taste and texture, have developed independently of each other.

How many types of pasta are there?

There are around 350 different types of pasta, which can be broadly categori s ed into four main groups: long pasta, short pasta, soup pasta, and stuffed pasta. Some pasta types may fit into multiple categories, and they often vary in shape and size based on regional preferences. Some have pockets or indentations that are good for capturing chunky sauce ingredients, while others are long and slender, making them ideal for clinging to sauces.

What types of pasta are there?

The most common pasta types are spaghetti, penne, fusilli, and fettuccine. There are hundreds of different types , making a comprehensive list quite extensive. Other popular varieties include linguine, farfalle, macaroni, ravioli, and lasagna, and they can be used in many ways depending on the dish.

How long does pasta keep?

Cooked pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for approximately 3 - 5 days. Dry, uncooked pasta, on the other hand, has a longer shelf life. Fresh pasta will last a few days in the refrigerator or can be frozen for 2 - 3 months before cooking.

What to do with leftover cooked pasta?

Use leftover cooked pasta to make new, exciting dishes. You can always mix it with leftover sauce and reheat it, or you can make a fresh pasta salad. Soups and casseroles are also great for putting leftover pasta to good use . They will warm up nicely and slowly in the casserole and absorb the flavo u rs. Similarly, you can make a baked pasta dish with just a few ingredients or serve it with olive oil, garlic, and herbs as a simple side dish.

Pasta is stored in different ways depending on the type. For cooked pasta, including leftovers, ensure it is completely cooled before placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can be stored for 3 - 5 days. Uncooked pasta requires different handling; dry pasta should be kept in a cool, dry place inside an airtight container. Filled pasta, which typically has a shorter shelf life, should be stored in the refrigerator.

Can you freeze cooked pasta?

Yes, you can freeze pasta, but make sure it is completely cool first. Once cooled, transfer it into an airtight container or a freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 - 3 months. However, be aware that the flavour and texture may not be as good as when it is fresh.

There are several ways to reheat cooked pasta. You can start by placing it in boiling water for 30 - 40 seconds. All you need to remember is to use a large pot similar to the one you would use for initially cooking the pasta. Simply add the pasta, let it heat through, then drain and use the pasta for whatever dish you desire .

The world of pasta

Dive into the world of pasta, where we present informative articles, easy recipes, and inspiration for your pasta cooking adventure. Explore our many delicious recipes or learn more about different pasta types and what each of them is particularly good for.

Everything about pasta: tips, guides, and recipes

Explore our pasta universe consisting of interesting articles, including a guide to sauce pairings and a list of quick and easy pasta recipes. We also provide an encyclopaedia that goes through the different types of pasta, how they are shaped, and what meals they are often used in.

Top 10 pasta recipes

Get cooking with this selection of our ten most popular pasta recipes.

15 min

Spaghetti pesto

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35 min

Buffalo chicken mac and cheese

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20 min

Creamy mushroom pasta

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30 min

Salmon and broccoli pasta

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20 min

Easy spaghetti Bolognese

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45 min

Vegetarian lasagne

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30 min

Carbonara with pancetta

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45 min

Ravioli

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45 min

Spinach and ricotta lasagne

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15 min

Penne arrabbiata

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Spaghetti

Simple and versatile, spaghetti is a staple in most kitchens. The long strands of pasta can be found in either fresh or dried versions and are often used in spaghetti Bolognese and carbonara.

Discover our spaghetti recipes

15 min

Carbonara with egg yolk

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15 min

Pasta with pesto

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30 min

Mushroom carbonara

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20 min

Vegetarian carbonara

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Lemon pasta

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30 min

Courgette carbonara

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50 min

Creamy spaghetti bolognese

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20 min

Easy spaghetti Bolognese

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25 min

Cacio e pepe

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20 min

Spaghetti aglio e olio

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Elbow pasta

Elbow pasta is a type of macaroni and a common choice for comfort foods such as mac and cheese and casseroles. The small, curvy pastas are perfect for creamy sauces and rich meals.

Discover our elbow pasta recipes

30 min

Béchamel pasta

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35 min

Vegetable pasta bake

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10 min

Quick mac and cheese

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45 min

Butter chicken mac and cheese

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35 min

Buffalo chicken mac and cheese

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1 h

Mac and cheese balls

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25 min

Baked mac and cheese

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Lasagne sheets

Most people know the large, flat sheets of pasta that are often used for lasagne. They can be found in dried and fresh forms and are perfect for holding layers of meat, vegetables, and sauce when baked. Fresh lasagne sheets can also be used for homemade cannelloni.

Discover our Lasagne recipes

1 h

Lasagne

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45 min

Vegetarian lasagne

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1 h 45 min

Cottage cheese lasagne

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45 min

Spinach and ricotta lasagne

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45 min

Spinach and courgette lasagne

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30 min

Salmon lasagne

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45 min

Cannelloni

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Spinach and ricotta cannelloni

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1 h

Chicken cannelloni

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Fettuccine

Fettuccine is a long, flat ribbon with a robust yet tender texture. It pairs well with anything from hearty meat sauces to delicate cream-based preparations, so with fettuccine in hand, you can vary your cooking endlessly.

Discover our fettuccine recipes

30 min

Chicken pasta with béchamel sauce

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30 min

Chicken fettuccine Alfredo

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30 min

Fettuccine Alfredo with broccoli and chicken

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35 min

Cajun chicken Alfredo

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35 min

Fettuccine Alfredo

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20 min

Creamy mushroom pasta

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35 min

Steak fettuccine

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20 min

Prawn fettuccine

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Penne pasta

These hollow cylindrical pastas are popular in many homes thanks to their versatility. They hold up well to baking, which makes them a good choice for casseroles and pasta bakes. However, they also pair well with various sauces – both the lighter, delicate ones and the more robust ones.

Discover our penne pasta recipes

30 min

Pasta with aubergine and tomato sauce

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15 min

Penne arrabbiata

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50 min

Chicken fajita pasta bake

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25 min

Mediterranean pasta salad

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30 min

Pasta salad

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25 min

Cheesy pasta

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45 min

Chicken pasta bake

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30 min

Tuna pasta bake

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We have more inspirational recipe categories for you

The world of pasta is enormous, and there is always more to explore. In this section, we provide additional inspiration for cooking with various types of pasta, so dive in and find your next favourite pasta recipe.

Stuffed pasta

Ravioli, tortellini, and cannelloni. No matter the type, stuffed pasta offers the perfect combination of pasta and filling in each bite. Pair them with luscious sauces or refreshing sides to create a satisfying meal.

Noodles

Most people know about the thin threads of pasta called noodles. They can be used in various ways and paired with numerous ingredients, from chicken and fish to vegetables and sauces. Our collection includes recipes for ramen, pad Thai, stir fry noodles, and more.

FAQ

Do you want to know more about pasta? We have gathered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare the pasta for your favourite dishes. Whether you are interested in cooking, storing, or finding the proper pasta type, you have come to the right place.

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The world of pasta

Everything about pasta: tips, guides, and recipes

Top 10 pasta recipes

Spaghetti

Discover our spaghetti recipes

Elbow pasta

Discover our elbow pasta recipes

Lasagne sheets

Discover our Lasagne recipes

Fettuccine

Discover our fettuccine recipes

Penne pasta

Discover our penne pasta recipes

We have more inspirational recipe categories for you

Stuffed pasta

Noodles

FAQ

Discover all our articles about pasta

The best pasta and sauce pairings

Stuffed pasta

Spaghetti

Quick and easy pasta recipes

Penne pasta

Pasta types – an exhaustive encyclopaedia

Lasagne sheets

Fettuccine