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.
Once kernels are slightly more tender than al dente, add slurry. — Heather Riske, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 June 2026 Cooking pasta al dente and pairing it with protein, fiber, and healthy fats can help reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes. — Brittany Poulson, Verywell Health, 1 June 2026 Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. — Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 2 June 2026 Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer until the couscous is al dente, about 10 minutes. — Kate Williams, AJC.com, 22 June 2026 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

Rhymes for al dente

See All Rhymes for al dente

Browse Nearby Words

Alden
al dente
alder
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Al dente.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/al%20dente. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on al dente

Nglish: Translation of al dente for Spanish Speakers

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