For best flavor and texture, drain pasta thoroughly so no cooking water sticks to the pieces and dilutes the sauce.
Removing Drainer Insert
If using a pasta pot with an insert, lift up the insert by the handles (protect your hands with hotpads, if necessary). The cooking water will drain back into the pot.
Draining in a Colander
Set a colander in the sink. If using a standard pot without a drainer insert, pour the pasta and water into the colander as soon as the pasta is done.