Boil water with salt in a large pot at least 4 times the quantity of pasta. So, 1 cup of pasta would need at least 4 cups of water. Once the water comes to a boil, add the pasta and give it a good stir. Let the pasta cook for about 8 to 12 minutes. The best way to check pasta is to taste it. It has to be Al Dente - meaning soft but still have a bite. Then, drain the pasta dish and set it aside until ready to use it in the sauce.