Cook Pasta in a Frying Pan to Save Time

The Problem

Boiling a huge pot of water takes 10+ minutes and wastes energy. By the time water boils, you could have been done.

The Hack

Place dried pasta in a wide skillet or frying pan. Add enough cold water to just cover the pasta. Add salt. Bring to a boil, stir, and cook until al dente.

Why It Works

A shallow pan has more surface area, so less water heats faster. The concentrated starch from less water makes the cooking liquid naturally sauce-ready.

Pro Tips

• This works for any short pasta — penne, fusilli, farfalle
• The starchy water left in the pan is perfect for building sauces
• Total time from dry pasta to plate: about 15 minutes
• Add garlic and olive oil to the water for extra flavor as it cooks