What is al dente pasta?

Al dente is an Italian term that translates to "to the tooth" in English. It refers to pasta that is cooked until it is firm to the bite, but not overly soft or mushy. Cooking pasta al dente allows it to maintain a slightly chewy texture and retain some resistance when bitten into.

To achieve al dente pasta, it is best to cook it for the shortest amount of time recommended on the package instructions, typically around 9-11 minutes for most types of pasta. It is important to taste the pasta frequently during cooking to ensure it reaches the desired consistency.

Al dente pasta is often preferred in Italian cuisine as it is considered the ideal texture for pasta dishes. It is also easier for the body to digest and has a lower glycemic index compared to overcooked pasta.