Adding oil to pasta boiling water

Not adding oil to boiling water

Adding oil to pasta boiling water is a common mistake that some believe prevents pasta from sticking. But in fact, this practice can lead to undesirable results. When you add oil to water, the oil floats on the surface, preventing the pasta from absorbing flavor from the water. Instead, you must boil pasta in well-salted water, helping enhance its flavor. To avoid pasta sticking, make sure to stir it well during the first minutes of boiling, and wash it with cold water after cooking if you plan to use it in salad or cold dishes.