Cooking pasta is a simple process that begins with boiling water in a large pot. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add a generous amount of salt to enhance the flavor. Then, carefully add the pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cooking times vary depending on the type of pasta, so it's important to check the package instructions for guidance. To determine if the pasta is done, taste a piece for the desired texture, known as "al dente," which means it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water if you plan to use it in a salad. Otherwise, toss it with your favorite sauce for a delicious meal.