Reply To: What is the purpose of those twist tops on certain pot covers?

I would leave the vent open for boiling noodles, to avoid boilover. The lid you describe is a GREAT idea. I usually have to leave th cover slightly askew to achieve that same result. ALways use a BIG pot for pasta, ebcause you need to cook it in sufficient water and have enough room for the noodles to expand. Covering the pot keeps the water temp higher.