To prevent pasta from sticking together when cooking it in water and oil in a pan simultaneously, you can follow these steps:
Use an adequate amount of water: Ensure that you use a large pot with plenty of water to cook the pasta. Using a small amount of water can increase the chances of the pasta sticking together.
Add salt to the boiling water: Before adding the pasta, bring the water to a rolling boil and then add salt. The salt will not only enhance the flavor of the pasta but also help prevent sticking.
Stir the pasta immediately after adding: Once you add the pasta to the boiling water, stir it immediately and frequently during the first couple of minutes. This will prevent the strands from clumping together.
Avoid overcooking: Cook the pasta until it reaches the desired level of doneness, usually al dente. Overcooking can make the pasta more likely to stick together. Follow the cooking instructions on the pasta package as a general guideline.
Use a high-quality pasta: Choosing a good quality pasta that is less prone to sticking can make a difference. Look for pasta brands made with durum wheat, which tends to have a firmer texture and is less likely to clump together.
Add oil after cooking: Instead of adding oil to the boiling water, you can add a small amount of oil (such as olive oil) to the cooked and drained pasta. Toss the pasta gently to coat it with the oil, which will help prevent sticking.
Rinse the pasta (optional): If you're using the pasta for cold dishes like pasta salad, you can rinse it with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch, which can contribute to sticking.
By following these tips, you can minimize the chances of your pasta sticking together when cooking it in water and oil in a pan simultaneously.