Viral Crispy Pasta Salad: Your New Favorite Crunchy Delight

Discover the crowd-pleasing Viral Crispy Pasta Salad, a quick and customizable dish combining crunchy pasta and fresh veggies.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Lunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Crunch

2 cups Pasta shells Use any short pasta like bow ties.
2 tablespoons Olive oil Coats the pasta for air frying.
1/2 cup Freshly grated parmesan Adds rich flavor; try nutritional yeast for a plant-based twist.

For the Creamy Dressing

1 cup Plain yogurt Base for the dressing; Greek yogurt enhances creaminess.
1 tablespoon Honey Dijon mustard Adds depth to the dressing.
2 tablespoons White balsamic vinegar Brings acidity; apple cider vinegar works as an alternative.
1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors.

For the Fresh Veggies

2 cups Romaine (finely diced) Offers freshness; spinach can substitute.
1 cup English cucumber (finely diced) Adds hydration; remove seeds to reduce moisture.
1 cup Cherry tomatoes (diced) Provides sweetness; grape tomatoes work as a substitute.
1/2 cup Kalamata olives (sliced) Contributes a salty, briny flavor.
1/2 cup Pepperoncini (diced) Introduces tangy heat; swap for banana peppers for milder touch.

Equipment

Air Fryer
Large pot
Mixing bowl
Whisk

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, add pasta shells, cook till al dente (8-10 mins), drain, and rinse with cold water.
Prepare the Pasta for Crisping: Toss drained pasta with olive oil and parmesan in a bowl, ensuring even coating.
Air-Fry the Pasta: Preheat air fryer to 390°F, transfer pasta in a single layer, air fry for 10-12 mins, shaking halfway.
Make the Creamy Dressing: Whisk together yogurt, honey Dijon mustard, white balsamic vinegar, and salt until smooth.
Combine Veggies and Dressing: In a bowl, mix diced romaine, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and pepperoncini, pour dressing, and toss.
Fold in the Crispy Pasta: Add crispy pasta to bowl with veggies, gently fold to mix without breaking the pasta.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 9gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Best served immediately after combining for maximum crunch. Adjust dressing as needed to suit your taste.

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