Myth – Oil floats on water and doesn’t affect pasta. Proper stirring prevents sticking.
Adding oil to pasta water is ineffective since oil floats on water’s surface, never contacting the pasta. Here’s the correct method:
Use plenty of water: 4-6 quarts per pound of pasta Add salt: 1-2 tablespoons per pound (for flavor, not to prevent sticking) Bring to full boil before adding pasta Stir within first 2 minutes to prevent clumping Stir occasionally throughout cooking Test for doneness 2 minutes before package time suggests
To prevent sticking after draining:
- Don’t rinse (except for cold pasta salads)
- Reserve 1 cup cooking water
- Immediately add sauce or a small amount of olive oil if serving plain
- If not serving immediately, toss with a small amount of cooking water
Common mistakes:
- Using too little water
- Not stirring initially
- Overcooking
- Letting pasta sit without sauce
For long-term storage, cool pasta completely before refrigerating to prevent clumping.
