Pasta's starchy water, a byproduct of cooking, contains amylopectin and amylose, long-chain carbohydrates that contribute to its creamy texture and ability to coat sauces. Around 20% of pasta's weight is lost during cooking. Researchers at the University of Naples Federico II have studied the effect of different flours (durum wheat from regions like Puglia, Italy, is preferred) on pasta's texture, finding that protein content significantly impacts its firmness and elasticity after cooking. The ideal cooking time for al dente pasta, around 8-11 minutes, depends on factors like pasta shape (e.g., spaghetti vs. penne), altitude (higher altitudes require longer cooking times due to lower boiling points), and the specific brand's form