Trader Joe's · 454g
Trader Joe's Fusilli Pasta
What it is
This is a package of dry fusilli pasta made from durum wheat. Fusilli is a spiral-shaped pasta, often described as corkscrew-shaped. The spirals are created by extruding the dough through a die. This shape is popular because it holds sauces well. The pasta is dried, which gives it a long shelf life and makes it convenient to store in the pantry. It is a staple ingredient for many home cooks.
How people cook with it
Pasta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. It serves as the base for many comforting and flavorful meals.
- As a base for pasta salads
- Mixed with pesto sauce
- Tossed with marinara
- Baked in casseroles
To cook this pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fusilli and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, meaning it is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. You can then toss it directly with your favorite sauce, add it to a soup, or use it in a cold pasta salad. The pasta water can be used to help emulsify and thicken sauces.
How it differs from similar foods
Fusilli's spiral shape is its defining characteristic. Unlike smoother pasta shapes like spaghetti or penne, the twists and turns of fusilli are excellent at trapping and holding onto chunkier sauces, pesto, or small ingredients like peas and bits of meat. This makes it a great choice when you want every bite to be full of flavor.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a classic pasta shape that pairs well with many different sauces and ingredients.
How to keep the rest
Store the unopened package in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Once opened, ensure the bag is sealed tightly to keep out moisture and pests. Properly stored, dry pasta can last for a very long time, though it is best used before the expiration date for optimal texture and flavor.