How to Cook the Perfect Al Dente Pasta

Dr. Andrew Weil recently appeared on Dr. Oz's show and mentioned the importance of eating pasta al dente (firm but not hard). He said that pasta that is al dente has a lower glycemic index, making it better for our bodies because it doesn't get converted to sugar as quickly. Now you're probably wondering - how exactly do you cook al dente pasta?

One of the most important steps is to have the water completely boiling before you put your pasta into it {the instructions really do know what they're talking about ;) }.

Set your timer for 5-6 minutes. Keep the water boiling the entire time the pasta cooks. Test the pasta after about 4 minutes to be sure it isn't cooking more quickly than expected.

Also be sure to take into account the size of your pasta - small pieces of pasta will not need to cook as long as the larger shapes. Adjust your cooking time according to the size of your pasta to keep the texture consistent.

After your pasta has reached the perfect al dente texture, take it off the stove immediately and drain the water. You're done!