The way you cook pasta really changes how it feels when you eat it. This is super important in Italian cooking. There are three main ways to cook pasta: boiling, baking, and sautéing. Each method gives pasta a unique texture.

1. Boiling:

   • This is the most popular way to cook pasta. You do it by boiling pasta in salted water.
   • To get that perfect "al dente" texture, which means it has a little firmness, you usually cook it for about 8-12 minutes.
   • For example, spaghetti usually cooks in 8-10 minutes, and penne may take 12-14 minutes.
   • When pasta is cooked al dente, it feels firm and has about 60% moisture.

2. Baking:

   • This method is great for dishes like lasagna. Baking adds a crispy layer on top and helps the flavors mix together.
   • You can bake pasta at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes. This creates a chewy inside and a crunchy top.

3. Sautéing:

   • In this method, you quickly cook pasta that has already been boiled in oil or sauce. This adds flavor and can make the outside a little crispy.
   • Sautéing for 2-5 minutes helps remove some moisture and makes the pasta firmer, especially when you add veggies or meats.

In summary, how you cook pasta changes not just how it feels in your mouth, but also how well it soaks up sauces. Pasta that’s slightly undercooked can hold onto sauce better, which means more flavor. Picking the right cooking method helps show off the pasta's true qualities, making your dish more delicious and enjoyable.