A pasta timer is a kitchen tool designed to help cooks determine the optimal cooking time for different types of pasta. It typically features a simple design, often resembling a traditional hourglass or a digital timer. By setting the timer according to the pasta type and desired doneness, users can avoid overcooking or undercooking their pasta. Many pasta timers come with pre-set times for various pasta shapes, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Some advanced models may even include features like alarms or countdown displays, making it easier to keep track of cooking times while multitasking in the kitchen.