How do you make spaghetti-?

Ingredients:

* Spaghetti: 1 pound (about 16 ounces)

* Water: 6-8 cups

* Salt: 1 tablespoon

* Olive oil: 1 tablespoon

* Your favorite sauce: (See notes below for sauce ideas)

Equipment:

* Large pot

* Colander

* Tongs or slotted spoon

* Serving bowl or plates

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:

* Fill the pot with water and bring to a rolling boil.

* Add the salt to the boiling water. This helps season the pasta.

* Add the spaghetti to the boiling water. Stir gently to prevent sticking.

* Cook according to the package directions, usually 8-10 minutes.

* The spaghetti should be al dente, meaning it's tender but still has a slight bite to it.

2. While the pasta is cooking:

* Heat your sauce over medium heat in a saucepan. If you're making your own sauce, you'll need to do this while the pasta cooks.

3. Drain the pasta:

* When the pasta is al dente, drain it in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta unless you're using it in a cold pasta salad.

4. Add pasta to the sauce:

* Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. You may need to add a tablespoon of pasta water to the sauce to help the sauce cling to the pasta.

5. Serve:

* Serve the spaghetti immediately. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, basil leaves, or other desired toppings.

Sauce Ideas:

* Classic Tomato Sauce: Use canned crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, and herbs.

* Creamy Alfredo Sauce: Made with butter, cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.

* Meat Sauce: Ground beef or Italian sausage, tomato sauce, onions, garlic, herbs.

* Pesto Sauce: Fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil.

Tips:

* Don't overcook the pasta! Overcooked pasta will be mushy.

* Use enough water for the pasta to have room to cook evenly.

* Stir the pasta occasionally while it's cooking to prevent sticking.

* Add a pinch of sugar to your tomato sauce to balance the acidity.

Enjoy your homemade spaghetti!