How to Boil Pasta
In recipes, cooking pasta is oftentimes boiled down to (no pun intended) to just one step that says, “cook the pasta” or “cook the pasta according to package instructions.” We recently had to break down this step for a class and realized just how many smaller steps go into this recipe step. We also wanted to break this down because pasta is a well-loved dish that is accessible for kids, teens, and adults and can take on many flavors and accommodate many diets. Learning to make pasta is a great first step for beginner cooks, especially tweens, teens, and adults with disabilities who are looking to become more independent.
How to Boil Pasta
Decide what kind of pasta you want to make and how much.
Pick a pot large enough to fit your pasta. Fill it with enough water to cover your pasta.
Put the pot on a burner on the stove and turn heat to high until the water boils rapidly.
Heavily salt the water.
Put a colander in the sink.
When the water is boiling, add your pasta and turn the heat down to medium.
Check the pasta packaging for the recommended cooking time. Set a timer.
When the pasta is done cooking, carefully drain the water from the pasta by pouring the pot into the colander in the sink.
When water is completely drained, mix the pasta with the sauce you want.
Then, spoon the covered pasta into your bowl. Eat and enjoy!