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.
Continue adding stock as needed, stirring frequently, and cook for another 9 minutes or until the rice is al dente and the vegetables are tender. Shivani Vora, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 Cook macaroni in salted water until the noodles are al dente. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Apr. 2025 Meanwhile, add pasta to boiling water and cook until al dente, about 12 minutes. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 2 Mar. 2025 The soft color, the al dente snap, the grassy taste. The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 2 May 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 22 May. 2025.

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