Your not going to believe this until you try it. I didn't. I got this from "Hints from Heloise" and wanted to share it with everyone.

Put 3 quarts of water in a 4 quart pot that has a tight fitting lid; bring to a full rolling boil. Then add a tablespoon of salt.

After the water is again bubbling fast and furiously, put in 8 ounces of spaghetti or linguini, adding it slowly so the water continues to boil. Then give it a good stir or two. Immediately put the lid on the pot and twist it (that makes a vacuum) and turn off the heat.

Remove from burner and let the pot sit for exactly 20 minutes. Don't remove the lid during this time. That's the secret. Then drain quickly because it's done.

It's always done to perfection and it frees a burner for cooking other things. Thanks Heloise!