Mediterranean Whole Wheat Pasta Chips

This Italian snack recipe combines authentic flavors with modern cooking techniques. Ready in 25 minutes, serves 4 people. Serve these crunchy bites warm in a large sharing bowl. Accompany them with a side of homemade marinara sauce or a zesty garlic-herb Greek yogurt …

Cuisine: Italian Type: Snack Time: 25 min Servings: 4 Calories: 323 per serving
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Nutrition Information

Each serving contains approximately 323 calories and 10.0g of protein. Macronutrients include 46.0g carbohydrates and 11.0g fats per serving.

Per Serving

Calories
323
Protein
10.0g
Carbohydrates
46.0g
Fats
11.0g

Total

Calories
1292
Protein
40.0g
Carbohydrates
184.0g
Fats
44.0g

Ingredients

This recipe requires 9 ingredients. All ingredients are commonly available at grocery stores.

  • 8.0 oz Whole Wheat Farfalle Pasta
    100% whole grain, dried bowtie pasta (or penne)
  • 2.0 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
    Cold-pressed, for tossing
  • 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
    Part-skim, fresh grated
  • 1.0 tbsp Dried Italian Seasoning
    Salt-free herb blend (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1.0 tsp Garlic Powder
    Pure granulated garlic (not garlic salt)
  • 0.5 tsp Sea Salt
    Fine grain, adjust to taste
  • 0.25 tsp Black Pepper
    Freshly ground
  • 2.0 tbsp Fresh Parsley
    Finely chopped, for garnish
  • 1.0 cup Marinara Sauce
    No sugar added, low sodium, for dipping

Instructions

Follow these 5 steps to prepare this dish. Each step includes detailed instructions for best results.

1. Mise en Place & Pre-heating

  1. Gather equipment: Large pot for boiling, colander, clean kitchen towel, large mixing bowl, measuring spoons, and air fryer (or baking sheet).
  2. Fill the large pot with water and place on high heat to boil.
  3. Preheat Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C) or oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Measure 2 tbsp (30ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 0.25 cup (60ml) Grated Parmesan Cheese, 1 tbsp (15ml) Dried Italian Seasoning, 1 tsp (5ml) Garlic Powder, 0.5 tsp (2.5ml) Sea Salt, and 0.25 tsp (1.25ml) Black Pepper.
  5. Finely chop 2 tbsp (30ml) Fresh Parsley and set aside for garnish.

2. Boil Pasta

  1. Once water is boiling, carefully add 8 oz (225g) Whole Wheat Farfalle Pasta.
  2. Boil pasta until al dente (firm to the bite), typically 8-9 minutes.
  3. Drain pasta thoroughly in a colander, shaking off excess water.

3. Dry & Season

  1. Spread cooked pasta onto a clean kitchen towel and pat the surface very dry (crucial for crunchiness).
  2. Transfer dried pasta to the large mixing bowl.
  3. Drizzle with the olive oil and add the measured parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Toss vigorously until every piece of pasta is evenly coated.

4. Crisp (Air Fry)

  1. Arrange pasta in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding).
  2. Air fry for 3 minutes.
  3. Remove basket and shake well to ensure even browning.
  4. Air fry for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve

  1. Transfer hot pasta chips to a serving bowl.
  2. Sprinkle with the chopped fresh parsley.
  3. Pour 1 cup (240ml) Marinara Sauce into a side dish for dipping and serve immediately.

Plating

  1. Select a large, shallow serving bowl or a rustic wooden serving board to present the chips for sharing.
  2. Pour the warm marinara sauce into a small ceramic dipping bowl or ramekin and place it securely in the center of the serving vessel or off to the side.
  3. Mound the warm pasta chips generously around the dipping sauce, allowing them to tumble naturally to create height and abundance.
  4. Finish by dusting the chips with a little extra grated Parmesan cheese and scattering the fresh chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant pop of green color.

Family Beverage

Sparkling water infused with fresh cucumber slices, lemon, and a sprig of mint for a refreshing palate cleanser.

Alcohol Beverage

A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a light, dry Rosé complements the savory herbs and salty cheese perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crunchy bites warm in a large sharing bowl. Accompany them with a side of homemade marinara sauce or a zesty garlic-herb Greek yogurt dip for dipping. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Notes

To achieve the perfect crunch, ensure the cooked pasta is thoroughly patted dry with a towel before tossing with the olive oil and seasonings. If using an air fryer, shake the basket halfway through to ensure even browning. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

Storage

Allow the pasta chips to cool completely to room temperature to prevent condensation from softening the texture. Transfer to an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 days. If the chips lose their crunch, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Freezing

Freezing the finished chips is not recommended as moisture will compromise the crispy texture and result in sogginess upon thawing. For advanced preparation, boil the pasta ahead of time and freeze the plain, cooked pasta in freezer-safe bags for up to 1 month; thaw completely in the refrigerator and pat dry before seasoning and baking.

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