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### **5️⃣ Overcooking or Undercooking Pasta**
🚫 **Mistake:** Not following the **al dente** rule.
✅ **Fix:** Cook pasta **1–2 minutes less** than package instructions for **al dente texture**—firm but tender. If mixing with sauce, finish cooking in the sauce for better absorption.
### **6️⃣ Draining All the Pasta Water**
🚫 **Mistake:** Pouring all the starchy pasta water down the sink.
✅ **Fix:** Save **about ½ cup** of pasta water before draining. The starch helps **bind the sauce** to the pasta, making it richer and silkier.
### **7️⃣ Rinsing Cooked Pasta**
🚫 **Mistake:** Rinsing pasta under cold water (unless for a cold pasta salad).
✅ **Fix:** **Never rinse hot pasta**—it removes the natural starches that help sauce stick. Just drain and mix directly with your sauce.
### **8️⃣ Not Tossing Pasta with the Sauce**
🚫 **Mistake:** Pouring sauce on top of plain pasta instead of mixing.
✅ **Fix:** **Always toss pasta in the sauce** while still hot. This helps flavors blend and ensures every bite is delicious.
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## **Bonus Tips for Perfect Pasta Every Time!**
🍝 **Use fresh pasta when possible** – It cooks faster and tastes amazing.
🍝 **Experiment with pasta shapes** – Different shapes hold sauces differently.
🍝 **Try homemade sauces** – A simple garlic butter or tomato basil sauce makes all the difference.
🍝 **Add cheese at the end** – Parmesan melts best when sprinkled after serving.
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## **Final Thoughts**
If you’ve been making these mistakes, don’t worry—you’re not alone! By following these **simple fixes**, you’ll never have bland, mushy, or sticky pasta again. Whether you’re making **classic spaghetti, creamy fettuccine, or a hearty penne dish**, these tips will **elevate your pasta game to perfection**.
🍝 **Try these hacks today and taste the difference in your next pasta dish!** 😍
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