How long does it take to cook dried spaghetti?

Cooking time for dried spaghetti can vary depending on the brand and the desired texture. Here are some general guidelines for boiling spaghetti until al dente:

- 8-12 minutes for al dente: This is the traditional Italian way to cook spaghetti, where the pasta still has a slight bite to it and holds its shape well.

- 12-15 minutes for softer pasta: If you prefer softer spaghetti, cook it for a few minutes longer, until it reaches your desired texture.

Steps for cooking dried spaghetti:

1. Bring Water to a Boil: Fill a large pot or saucepan with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Make sure the pot has enough space for the spaghetti to expand.

2. Add Salt (optional). Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water. The general rule of thumb is 1 tablespoon of salt per pound of spaghetti. Some recipes may skip this step, as the salt content can be adjusted according to personal taste later on.

3. Add Spaghetti: Once the water is boiling and salted (if desired), carefully drop the spaghetti into the pot. You may need to break the spaghetti in half if it doesn't fit into the pot. Stir gently to separate the strands and prevent them from sticking together.

4. Boil: Let the spaghetti cook undisturbed for the recommended time, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Refer to the package instructions or the guidelines mentioned earlier (8-12 minutes for al dente, 12-15 minutes for softer pasta).

5. Taste Test: After the suggested cooking time, remove a strand of spaghetti and taste it. It should be cooked through but still have a slight firmness or bite to it when you bite into it.

6. Drain: When the spaghetti is cooked to your desired doneness, drain it immediately in a colander. Shake the colander gently to remove excess water.

7. Serve: Toss the spaghetti with your favorite sauce, add grated cheese, and serve immediately.

Remember that the cooking time can also vary depending on your personal preference and the specific type of spaghetti you are using. Some packages might provide specific cooking instructions, so make sure to read those for best results.