Because of its delicate nature, angel hair pasta (also known as capellini) is easy to overcook. It can happen in a matter of seconds, and the result is a clumpy mess. It is best to cook angel hair as closely to using as possible. Use plenty of boiling water, so noodles aren’t crowded. A gentle, soft boil vs. a violent, hard boil is desirable. Stir noodles occasionally while cooking, to prevent sticking. Depending on the amount of noodles and water, angel hair will cook within 3 to 5 minutes. Don’t rinse the pasta if you are putting it in a sauce. The remaining starch allows the sauce to cling to the noodles. If noodles are to be reheated in sauce, slightly undercook, allowing for additional heat while finishing in the sauce. If noodles are to be used later, cool under cold running water and toss with a drizzle of olive oil. Reheat for a minute in boiling water.
Claire’s tip of the week: Don’t overcook angel hair
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