Pin it Crispy, golden pasta chips tossed with zesty lemon, Parmesan, and a kick of chili, perfect for snacking or entertaining.
This recipe is my go-to snack when I want something flavorful yet easy to make. The combination of lemon and chili gives it a unique kick.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 250 g (about 9 oz) rigatoni or penne pasta, 1½ liters (6 cups) water, 1 tsp salt
- Coating: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste), 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp smoked paprika, Zest of 1 lemon, ½ tsp black pepper, 80 g (¾ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp sea salt
- Garnish: Extra grated Parmesan, Fresh parsley chopped, Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) or set air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
- Step 2:
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt and pasta. Cook until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Step 3:
- In a mixing bowl, toss cooked pasta with olive oil, chili flakes, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon zest, black pepper, and 60 g (½ cup) Parmesan. Season with sea salt.
- Step 4:
- Arrange pasta in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
- Step 5:
- Bake for 18-22 minutes (oven) or air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Step 6:
- Immediately sprinkle with remaining Parmesan. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.
Pin it This snack was a hit during family game nights. We loved dunking the chips into marinara sauce and chatting late into the evening.
Notes
Try dipping these chips in marinara or herbed yogurt sauce for extra flavor. Adjust chili flakes to your preferred heat level.
Required Tools
Large pot, Colander, Mixing bowl, Baking sheet or air fryer, Parchment paper (if baking), Grater or zester
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) and Milk (Parmesan cheese). Check Parmesan label for animal rennet if vegetarian. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Pin it A perfect snack that combines ease and bold flavors, ready to brighten any gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve crispy pasta chips?
Cook the pasta until just al dente, drain well, and dry before coating with oil and spices. Baking or air frying at high heat ensures a crispy texture.
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Short tubular pastas like rigatoni or penne work best as they crisp evenly and hold the coating well.
- → How can I adjust the heat level?
Modify the amount of chili flakes used. Reduce for mild flavor or increase for more spice.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for brightness, or pair with marinara or herbed yogurt sauces for dipping.
- → Are there alternative cheese options?
Pecorino or vegan Parmesan-style cheeses can be used as flavorful substitutes to Parmesan.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Best served fresh for maximum crispness, but can be stored in an airtight container and reheated briefly to restore crunch.