Pasta Cooking Tips
Food Network chef Antonia stressed not adding oil to boiling pasta water to ensure sauce clings properly [https://x.com/i/status/2031430247653028301].
Adding oil can prevent the pasta from releasing starch, which is needed for the sauce to bind. Some chefs recommend against rinsing pasta after boiling, as it washes away the starch. However, if you're making a cold pasta salad, rinsing is acceptable. Using a large pot with plenty of water helps to keep the pasta from sticking together. Salting the water is also crucial for flavoring the pasta itself.
