al dente

[al den-tey, -tee, ahl den-te] / æl ˈdɛn teɪ, -ti, ɑl ˈdɛn tɛ /

ADJECTIVE

of a firmer texture when cooked

Synonyms

WEAK

firm medium

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Add the asparagus and let everything turn glossy for a few minutes, then toss with sweet snap peas, chives and al dente pasta.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

Be sure to salt your water heavily — “like the ocean,” as chef Anne Burrell always says — and to cook al dente, even a minute or two shy of the box directions.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2025

Meanwhile, bring pasta water to a boil, and cook the orecchiette until it’s al dente.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 9, 2024

Bring to a boil over medium-high, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the mixture is saucy.

From Washington Times • Sep. 6, 2023

They resembled noodles that had been cooked al dente.

From "The Hot Zone" by Richard Preston