Farfalle (bowties) Cooking Time — Boil 10-12 min for Al Dente

Overview

Farfalle (bowties) cooking time: 10-12 min in boiling salted water. Thick center takes longer than thin wings. Test by biting the center. Works with light cream or pesto sauces.

Key Details

• Cook Time: 10-12 min
• Water: Boiling, heavily salted (should taste like sea water)
• Thick center takes longer than thin wings. Test by biting the center. Works with light cream or pesto sauces.
• Al dente: slight resistance when bitten (1-2 min less than package time)
• Use 4-6 quarts water per pound of pasta

Why This Matters

• Pasta cooking time varies significantly by shape and size
• Al dente pasta has lower glycemic index than overcooked
• Proper pasta water salt level is key to pasta flavor

How To

1. 1Bring large pot of water to rolling boil
2. 2Add salt generously (1-2 tbsp per pound)
3. 3Add farfalle (bowties), stir immediately
4. 4Cook 10-12 min for al dente
5. 5Save 1 cup pasta water before draining — starchy water helps sauce cling
6. 6Thick center takes longer than thin wings. Test by biting the center. Works with light cream or pesto sauces.

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