1. Use the right pasta type
Italians believe that certain pasta types pair better with certain types of sauces. For example, penne pasta goes well with thicker, chunkier sauces such as arrabbiata or amatriciana, while spaghetti works well with more delicate sauces like Aglio e Olio. The next time you’re cooking pasta at home, make sure to choose the right type of pasta that complements the sauce you’re making.
2. Cook pasta al dente
The term “al dente” translates to “to the tooth,” and it refers to pasta that’s cooked just enough so that it’s still slightly firm when you bite into it. Cooking pasta al dente is essential to achieving the perfect texture and taste. Overcooked pasta results in a mushy texture, while undercooked pasta can be tough and chewy.
3. Use quality ingredients
When it comes to Italian cuisine, simple is best. Most traditional Italian pasta dishes only require a few high-quality ingredients. For example, spaghetti carbonara is made with just eggs, guanciale or bacon, Pecorino or Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients like these will make a significant impact on the overall taste and quality of your pasta dish.
4. Don’t forget to salt the water
Adding salt to the water when cooking pasta might seem like a minor detail, but it’s essential to the flavor of the dish. The rule of thumb is to use one tablespoon of salt per four liters of water. Adding salt to the water not only enhances the flavor of the pasta but also helps to prevent it from sticking together.
5. Use pasta water to create the sauce
Instead of draining all of the pasta water after cooking, reserve a cup of it to use in your pasta sauce. The starchy water helps to thicken the sauce and also enhances its flavor. When you’re ready to combine the pasta and sauce, use tongs to transfer the pasta from the pot to the pan with the sauce, and then add a couple of spoonfuls of pasta water to produce the perfect texture.
In conclusion, making pasta the Italian way is all about getting back to basics and using simple, quality ingredients. By following these five tips, you can take your pasta dishes to the next level and impress your friends and family. Whether you’re making a classic spaghetti bolognese or a creamy carbonara, these tips are bound to make your pasta dishes taste just like they came straight from Italy. So, go ahead and get your apron on, set that pasta water to boil, and get ready to cook up a storm. Buon appetito!