How do you know if pasta is stale?

* Appearance: Stale pasta may have a dull or cloudy appearance compared to fresh pasta.

* Texture: Stale pasta can become brittle and break easily when cooked.

* Smell: Stale pasta may have a musty or unpleasant odor.

* Taste: Stale pasta may have a flat or bland taste compared to fresh pasta.

* Nutritional Value: Stale pasta may have a lower nutritional value compared to fresh pasta, as nutrients can degrade over time.

Preventing pasta from going stale:

* Store pasta in a cool, dry place: Store pasta in an airtight container in a cool pantry or cupboard, away from sources of heat and moisture.

* Use pasta within its expiration date: Check the expiration date on the pasta package and consume it before that date for the best quality and flavor.

* Refrigerate or freeze leftover cooked pasta: Leftover cooked pasta can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days, or frozen for up to 2-3 months.