Since Lockdown hit last year, we have been inundated with TikTok food trends, from the famous baked feta pasta to Dalgona (whipped) coffee. Now, yet another TikTok food trend has taken over our For You Page with #pastachips gaining over 350 million views. However, despite its popularity, ‘pasta chips’ have been incredibly divisive, with many hardcore connoisseurs cringing at the thought of air frying pasta.
This crispy pasta snack is deceptively simple to make and gives endless possibilities to tantalize your tastebuds may that be herbs, spices or serving dips. As an avid pasta fan, I knew I had to try this newest trend out.
To make your pasta chips (or crisps as we should be calling them here in the UK), start by boiling some pasta. After draining and letting the pasta dry a little, drizzle on some olive oil; sprinkle on a boat load of parmesan cheese and stir in your herbs and spices. I opted for: Italian mixed herbs, chilli flakes, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and some oregano but, the great thing about this recipe is that you can really mix it up to your own liking. Then, simply cook your pasta in an air fryer for 10 minutes at 200°C and you’re done! Serve your crispy pasta snack on its own, or with your favourite dip. I decided to serve mine with some Tzatziki and crumbled feta with some hummus on the side which, I must say, went down a treat; but these pasta chips would also be great with a side of salsa or Greek yoghurt too. There really are endless possibilities with this recipe, there is always the opportunity of a fresh take if you do decide to make them again.
Side note, you can absolutely still give this recipe a go if you do not have access to an air fryer. Follow all the steps above but, instead of popping the pasta into an air fryer simply cook them in a preheated oven for about 20 minutes at 200°C.
Now for the interesting part: the reviews. Controversial opinion warning – I simply do not understand the hype around this trend! As easy as the snack was to make, let’s just say I probably won’t be making it again. Being home for the summer, I made a larger portion for my family to dig into too, but we were largely in agreement that whilst the crisps were very moreish and not entirely inedible, they weren’t a snack that any of us would be craving again any time soon. The crunchy texture was definitely enjoyable; however, the crispy exterior contrasted with the soft interior made it difficult to get through after a while.
Perhaps a different combination of herbs and dips would have made the world of difference but, based on the batch I made, the pasta chip craze will be remaining low on my TikTok to do list.
