1.   Every day, as she hurries to her job as a pasta cook at the Marche restaurant inside the mall, she slips into a pew.

2.   For example, while the pasta cooks, use your imagination in preparing a sauce and vegetables.

3.   On the al dente front, good pasta cooks learn to trust their instincts.

4.   The Chronicle Food staff, along with some of our contributors and great pasta cooks, have joined forces to give you their favorite fast pasta recipes.

5.   While the pasta cooks, heat the clam juice and cream to a boil in a small saucepan.

6.   While pasta cooks, place the skillet over medium-high heat, and add tuna.

7.   While the pasta cooks, drain and rinse the beans.

8.   While the pasta cooks, tear the basil leaves into small pieces and add to the tomatoes.

9.   While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat.