How to cook pasta properly (Slideshow version)
Stage 5/8 : 7 min.
Stir and leave to cook uncovered for the time indicated on the pasta packet (usually 8-9 minutes, but it depend on type of pasta).The best way is to taste near end of cooking. It's very important not to overcook pasta, otherwise it becomes too soft and unpleasant.
Italians, pasta masters since Marco Polo, call this ideal texture "al dente".
During cooking, stir once or twice to prevent pasta sticking.