Make your best noodles yet with these pasta best practices from our pros!

How much pasta should I cook per person? Generally, cooking about 2 ounces of pasta (dry weight) per person is a good rule of thumb.

What’s the best way to cook dry pasta? Start with 8 parts water to 1 part pasta. Bring salted water to a rapid boil, then cook for 8-10 minutes depending on pasta shape. Once cooked to your desired doneness, drain pasta and add a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Can you really throw pasta against the wall to tell if it’s done? You can! If the pasta is cooked enough, the soft texture and starch on the outside will make it stick. If it’s not cooked enough, the pasta won’t stick, BUT it will also stick if it’s overcooked. The easiest way to tell if pasta is done is to try a piece!

Should I rinse my pasta after cooking? No, you don’t need to rinse cooked pasta. The starch on the pasta is actually your friend and adds a little creaminess to any sauce you add.

How do I store leftover pasta? Add a little oil (if the pasta is plain) and let it cool uncovered, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. Freezing is not recommended.

You can also make your own noodles from scratch with this easy recipe!