How to Drain Pasta Without a Colander

Living in a small apartment often means limited kitchen space. If your kitchen lacks essential tools, like a colander, don’t worry. Senior food editor Rick Martinez confirms that a colander is more of a "nice to have" than a necessity. When you need to drain pasta or blanched vegetables from boiling water, consider these alternatives:

1. Tongs or a Fork

If you've invested in a set of tongs, they can be quite handy. Use tongs to grab long pasta such as spaghetti directly from the pot. If you don’t have tongs, a fork will do. However, be prepared for longer draining times as you'll need to fish out each strand individually.

2. Spoon

For smaller pasta shapes and blanched vegetables, a spoon works well. Choose the largest spoon available. Use it to scoop your food out of the pot. Tilt the spoon slightly against the pot's edge to drain excess water. This method is effective but can be time-consuming.

3. Slotted Spoon or Spider

A slotted spoon or spider can help you drain water efficiently. These utensils function like mini-colanders, allowing water to escape while retaining your food. This method offers a simple solution when you’re without a colander.

4. The Lid

Another effective method involves using the pot's lid. When pouring out hot water, keep the lid slightly askew, about ¼ inch. Use insulated oven mitts to hold down the lid. Always hold the pot away from your body to prevent steam burns while pouring. This approach allows the lid to catch your pasta or veggies as you drain.

Remember, it’s all about safety first; colanders can wait.

Earlier, SSP told how to choose a healthy mayonaise.