Save Crispy, golden pasta chips tossed with zesty lemon, Parmesan, and a kick of chili, perfect for snacking or entertaining.
This snack quickly became a favorite at family gatherings thanks to its bold flavor and easy preparation.
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.
Save This recipe is a favorite family snack that brings everyone together around the table.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 270, Total fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 34 g, Protein 11 g per serving.
Save Enjoy this tangy snack fresh for the best crunch and flavor.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What type of pasta works best for chips?
Short tubular shapes like rigatoni or penne are ideal as they crisp evenly and hold coatings well.
- → How can I ensure the chips become crispy?
Drain and rinse the pasta well to remove excess starch and dry thoroughly before coating and baking.
- → Can I use different cheeses instead of Parmesan?
Yes, Pecorino or vegan Parmesan alternatives offer tasty variations while maintaining the savory flavor.
- → Is baking or air frying better for these chips?
Both methods yield crispy results; baking takes longer, while air frying is quicker and requires shaking halfway through.
- → How spicy are the chips and can I adjust the heat?
Chili flakes provide a mild to moderate heat that can be increased or decreased to suit your taste preferences.
- → What garnishes best complement these chips?
Fresh parsley and lemon wedges add brightness, while extra grated cheese boosts flavor right before serving.