al dente

adjective

al den·​te äl-ˈden-(ˌ)tā How to pronounce al dente (audio)
al-
: cooked just enough to retain a somewhat firm texture
al dente pasta
al dente adverb
pasta cooked al dente

Examples of al dente in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cook egg noodles: Cook egg noodles according to package directions for al dente; drain and keep warm. Amanda Stanfield, Southern Living, 19 Feb. 2025 Cook pasta in batches until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Judy Bart Kancigor, Orange County Register, 30 Jan. 2025 Add pasta; cook until 1 minute short of al dente, about 5 minutes. Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 29 Jan. 2025 Add 1 teaspoon salt and orzo; cook until al dente according to package directions. Cathy Thomas, Orange County Register, 1 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for al dente

Word History

Etymology

Italian; literally, to the tooth

First Known Use

1920, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of al dente was in 1920

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Cite this Entry

“Al dente.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/al%20dente. Accessed 1 Mar. 2025.

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