Dear Pasta, I love you.  I love you so much that I cannot bear to have you mistreated, overcooked and turned into a mushy-noodle sort of mess.  

al dente  /äl ˈdentā, al /

 adjective and adverb 

of food, typically pasta) cooked so as to be still firm when bitten.

Al dente literally translates as “to the tooth” or “to the bite.”

Al dente describes the proper texture to which pasta should be cooked.  Pasta should be tender but still have a slightly firm and chewy texture.  Pasta should not be starchy or sticky - this comes from overcooking.  In order for pasta to hold up to whichever sauce it is to meet, it must bear a strong consistency.  It should not disintegrate when pressed lightly between two fingers.  

Respect the pasta. 

Happy Wednesday!

Sincerely,

Pedantic Foodie