Whole Wheat Fusilli Pasta Salad with Cheese

Indulge in a vibrant and flavorful pasta salad that combines the nutritious benefits of whole wheat fusilli with the fresh and tantalizing flavors of cherry tomatoes, yellow bell peppers, and cucumber. This delightful dish is highlighted by creamy mini mozzarella balls and the aromatic touch of basil pesto. Perfect for a quick lunch or a savory take-along meal, this salad can be enjoyed immediately or stored for later consumption. It's a versatile dish that satisfies cravings for something both hearty and refreshingly light. Whether you’re planning a picnic or a family gathering, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit. The preparation is straightforward and can be accomplished in just 30 minutes. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate healthy greens and colorful veggies into your diet. Your taste buds will thank you for this delightful culinary experience!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

150 g whole wheat fusilli pasta
150 g red cherry tomatoes
1/2 yellow bell pepper
1/2 long cucumber
125 g mini mozzarella balls, halved
3-5 tbsp basil pesto

Preparation Time

Total time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by boiling a pot of water and add a pinch of salt for flavor.
Add the whole wheat fusilli pasta to the boiling water.
Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package, usually 8-10 minutes.
While the pasta is cooking, wash the cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and cucumber thoroughly.
Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Remove the seeds from the yellow bell pepper and slice it into thin strips.
Cut the cucumber lengthwise, remove the seeds, and slice it into half-moons.
Add the sliced bell pepper and cucumber to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Shake off any excess water from the pasta and add it to the mixing bowl.
Add the halved mini mozzarella balls to the bowl.
Spoon in the basil pesto and gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
Ensure that the pesto is evenly distributed throughout the salad for maximum flavor.
Taste and add more pesto if desired, adjusting to your preferred taste.
If serving later, transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate.
When ready to serve, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute flavors.
If desired, garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for added aroma and presentation.
Serve chilled or at room temperature for a delicious experience.

Tips

For a zesty twist, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
If you're out of basil pesto, substitute with a sun-dried tomato or walnut pesto.
This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or salmon for added protein.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
Protein: 14g
Fats: 10g
Carbohydrates: 45g

Variations

For a vegan option, replace mozzarella with tofu cubes and use dairy-free pesto.
Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Add olives, artichoke hearts, or capers for a Mediterranean twist.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
Pair with a crisp, chilled white wine or a light, fruity iced tea.
Serve alongside a leafy green salad for a complete meal.

Best Places

Experience similar flavors and culinary ingenuity at these top 10 places around the world:

Café de Flore - A Parisian classic offering exquisite salads with a view. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
The Cheeseboat - Known for its fresh and cheesy pasta dishes. Location: 80 Berry Street, Brooklyn, New York, USA.
Jamie’s Italian - Famous for its cozy atmosphere and mouthwatering pasta. Location: 107 Pitt Street, Sydney, Australia.
Rosso Pomodoro - Authentic Italian flavors at their best. Location: 1 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Australia.
La Paradeta - Enjoy fresh, locally sourced dishes. Location: 39 Calle Comercial, Barcelona, Spain.
Dishoom - A charming venue with an exciting menu. Location: 12 Upper St. Martin’s Lane, London, UK.
Pici Pasta Bar - A pasta lover's dream come true. Location: 16 St. Francis Yard, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
Da Michele - Traditional delights in an intimate setting. Location: 1B South Parade, Manchester, UK.
Pasta e Basta - Known for its lively ambiance and delightful food. Location: 61 Korte Leidsedwarsstraat, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Linguini Fini - Where sustainability meets taste. Location: 49 Elgin Street, Central, Hong Kong.