Pasta 101

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0705pasta-apronAnna Williams

A foolproof, step-by-step guide to making perfect pasta―from putting on a pot of water to matching up pasta shapes and recipes.

Essential Kitchen Tools Checklist

Cooking is easier and faster with the right equipment. Stock your kitchen with these basics.

  • Ladle. Look for a large “bowl” that makes it easy to serve soups. Also, a bent handle at the top allows you to hook the ladle on the side of a pot without it falling in.
  • Locking tongs. Select a style with nonslip handles and scalloped tips for a firm grip. Use for turning meats and tossing vegetables in a skillet.
  • Metal spatula. An offset thin blade will allow you to get under delicate items like cookies and pancakes. A medium-length blade will prevent flipping or picking up foods at an awkward angle.

View The Entire Checklist

How To: Cook Pasta

Surprising tricks that make for quicker, tastier spaghetti dinners.

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