Pasta that is cooked perfectly is called al dente, or "to the tooth." The best way to tell if your pasta is ready is to taste it. The pasta should be soft but not mushy. There should be a little firmness or resistance when you bite down. If the pasta seems woody or crunchy in the center, it's not ready yet. Pasta packages usually have a recommended cooking time. Start checking the pasta a minute or so before the time is up.