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.
Add the orzo and cook according to package instruction until al dente. Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 25 Mar. 2025 Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions, until just al dente. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 6 Mar. 2025 Add pasta; cook according to package directions for al dente. Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 17 Mar. 2025 Chef Alvarado advises cooking vegetables last to keep them al dente and fresh. Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024 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 15 Apr. 2025.

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