Italian Phrase
Non dimenticare di condire il cibo.
Meaning
This phrase is a direct instruction or reminder to add seasoning—such as salt, pepper, or oil—to a dish. In Italian culinary culture, 'condire' is a fundamental step to ensure that the natural flavors of the ingredients are properly enhanced.
When to use
You should use this phrase in a kitchen or dining setting when giving advice or a friendly reminder to someone who is cooking. It is perfect for informal situations with friends or family members.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nondimenticaredicondireilcibo
Negative Imperative (Tu)
In Italian, to tell someone 'don't' do something (informal 'tu'), you use 'non' + the infinitive form of the verb.
Preposition 'Di'
The verb 'dimenticare' (to forget) is followed by the preposition 'di' when it precedes another verb in the infinitive.
Condire
This is a third-conjugation verb (-ire) that means to season, flavor, or dress food, often implying the use of oil, salt, or vinegar.
🗨In Conversation
La pasta è quasi pronta, la scolo?
The pasta is almost ready, should I drain it?
Sì, ma non dimenticare di condire il cibo prima di portarlo in tavola.
Yes, but don't forget to season the food before bringing it to the table.
✕Common Mistakes
Non dimentichi di condire il cibo.
For the informal negative imperative (tu), Italian uses 'non' followed by the infinitive 'dimenticare' rather than a conjugated form.
Non dimenticare a condire il cibo.
The verb 'dimenticare' requires the preposition 'di' when followed by another verb, not 'a'.
↔Alternatives
Ricordati di salare il piatto.
Remember to salt the dish.
Metti un po' di condimento.
Add some seasoning.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, 'condire' often refers specifically to dressing a salad or finishing a dish with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and salt. While it is common to season food while cooking, be aware that adding salt to a finished dish at a high-end restaurant can occasionally be seen as a slight to the chef.