Fusilli: All about the pasta variety
Spiral pasta is often used for chunky or creamy sauces, as its extra edges and corners allow the sauce to adhere better. A good example of this is fusilli, probably the most popular type of spiral pasta.
Fusilli is a type of pasta that originally comes from Campania, Italy. They are usually 40 to 70 mm long and 6 to 15 mm wide. Its name is derived from the Italian word “fuso”, which means “spindle”.
In this article, you will learn all about fusilli and find delicious recipes to go with this type of pasta.
Fusilli: origin and meaning
| Pasta type | Fusilli |
| Category | Spiral noodles |
| Length | approx. 40 to 70 mm |
| Width | approx. 6 to 15 mm |
| Thickness | varies |
| Origin | Campania, Italy |
| Meaning | Derived from the Italian “fuso”, meaning “spindle”. |
| Synonyms | Fusillo |
| Similar types of pasta | Gemelli, Rotini |
Where does fusilli come from?
Fusill originated in southern Italy. Back then, they were formed by rolling strips of pasta over a stick to create a twisted shape reminiscent of a telephone cable. Nowadays, fusilli are mass-produced by pressing the pasta dough into a special mold. The result is the distinctive corkscrew shape that most people are familiar with.
What does fusilli mean?
The word “fusilli” is known to derive from the word “fuso”, which means “spindle” in Italian and refers to the way in which the pasta is “spun” by pressing and rolling a small stick over the thin strips of pasta to wind them into a corkscrew shape.
Fusilli come in different varieties, the best known of which are fusilli lunghi (long fusilli) and fusilli bucati (short fusilli).
What is the difference between fusilli and rotini?
Although the two pasta shapes have a lot in common, fusilli and rotini each have their own characteristics and uses, which can be used to distinguish them. Fusilli have larger and thicker spirals, while rotini have tighter and more compact spirals.
The different shapes of these two types of pasta also affect how and where they are used. Rotini are better suited to lighter sauces or even pasta salads, while fusilli are better suited to thicker, heartier sauces.
Recipe with fusilli
Fusilli with butternut and bacon
Fusilli goes well with most sauces, but did you know that it can also be used in pasta salads? Crispy bacon, roasted butternut squash, sautéed spinach, garlic and rosemary – and you’ve got a nutritious pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Pumpkin and spinach fusilli with pecans
This incredibly tasty and healthy pasta with pumpkin, spinach and pecans is not only suitable for vegetarians. It is a low-fat and low-calorie recipe that is easy to prepare and can be made in just 50 minutes!
Final considerations
Fusilli pasta is one of the most popular staple foods and for good reason. They are extremely versatile and go well with most sauces. Whether in a hearty meat sauce or simply with fruit in a macaroni salad, fusilli pasta is guaranteed to enrich your next pasta meal.
