| Step | Do | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Save water | Scoop out a mug before draining | Starchy water loosens and binds the sauce |
| Pour | Colander in the sink, pour away from you | Keeps the hot steam off your face |
| Shake | Shake, but don't drain bone-dry | A little clinging water helps sauce grip |
| Don't rinse | Rinse only for cold pasta salad | Rinsing washes off the sauce-gripping starch |
How to Drain Pasta
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Set a colander in the sink first, scoop out a mug of the starchy cooking water to save, then pour the pot away from you into the colander and give it a shake. Don't drain it bone-dry or rinse it — a little clinging water and starch help the sauce coat the pasta — unless you're making a cold pasta salad.