Fusilli pasta is a delightful corkscrew-shaped noodle that brings a unique twist to any meal. Its spiral form is perfect for holding sauces, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of dishes. This pasta is often paired with rich tomato-based sauces, creamy cheese mixtures, or vibrant vegetable medleys, delivering a satisfying texture and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal for guests, fusilli pasta is sure to impress.
You’ll Love This Fusilli Pasta
Fusilli pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its shape makes it an excellent choice for capturing sauces and ingredients, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. From simple marinara to more complex pesto or alfredo sauces, this pasta pairs well with various ingredients. It can be served hot or cold, making it perfect for pasta salads and dishes that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Once you try it, you’ll find countless ways to incorporate this delightful pasta into your meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare a delicious fusilli pasta dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 300g fusilli pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 400g can of chopped tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delectable fusilli pasta dish:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine with Fusilli:
- Add the cooked fusilli pasta to the tomato sauce. If the mixture appears too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Toss well to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Plate our pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
You can serve fusilli pasta in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Consider pairing it with:
- Garlic Bread: A side of toasted garlic bread is perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad can complement the richness of the pasta dish.
- Protein Additions: Top your fusilli with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for a more filling meal.
- Cold Pasta Salad: Chill the leftover pasta for a refreshing cold salad, mixing it with diced vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette.
MORE RECIPES: Oreo Ice Cream Recipe & Moist Chocolate Carrot Cake
How to Store Fusilli Pasta
Additional Tips: Fusilli Pasta
- Cooking Time: Be mindful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as crushed red pepper flakes for heat or fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end of cooking.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked fusilli pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Fusilli Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- colander
- wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 300 g fusilli pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 400 g can of chopped tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh basil for garnish
- grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Cook the Fusilli Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine with Fusilli:Add the cooked fusilli pasta to the tomato sauce. If the mixture appears too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Toss well to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish:Plate the fusilli pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
