Cold Tomato Sauce With Fusilli Pasta
A refreshing cold tomato sauce with fresh basil and garlic, perfect for summer pasta dishes. Light, flavorful, and ideal for a quick, chilled meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine olive oil, basil leaves, peeled and chopped tomatoes, and minced garlic in a blender or food processor and process until smooth.
- Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Cool cooked pasta under cold running water and toss with the prepared sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a tablespoon of capers for extra flavor. If fresh basil isn't available, try using fresh parsley or spinach as a substitute. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Always use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cold tomato sauce pairs beautifully with fusilli pasta but can also be served over zucchini noodles for a lighter option. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Serve with a side of the Best Green Salad I Ever Et to complement the meal, or enjoy with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the sauce thickens, you can loosen it with a bit of olive oil or water when reheating. The pasta can be stored separately to maintain its texture, and reheating can be done gently in a pan with a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Tomato Sauce With Fusilli Pasta contains roughly 440 calories, with 12g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1036mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be used, especially if fresh tomatoes are out of season. Opt for high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor. Just blend them with the other sauce ingredients as directed.
How can I make this dish vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that the pasta you use is also vegan; most dried pasta is. You can enhance the flavor with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
What other pasta shapes work with this sauce?
Besides fusilli, you can use penne, rotini, or even spaghetti for this cold tomato sauce. The key is to choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce well. Experiment with different shapes to find your favorite!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).