How is "al dente" pasta characterized?

"Al dente" pasta is characterized as being firm to the bite. This term, which translates from Italian as "to the tooth," describes the ideal texture of pasta that is cooked just enough to maintain a slight resistance when bitten into. Cooking pasta to this state ensures that it retains its shape and provides the perfect balance of chewiness and tenderness, enhancing the overall dining experience. This texture allows the pasta to hold sauces better, preventing it from becoming overly soft or mushy, which can occur when pasta is overcooked. The ideal "al dente" texture is particularly important in Italian cuisine, where the quality and texture of pasta play a crucial role in the dish's success.