Caprese Pasta Chips Salad by Feelgoodfoodie

Ingredients

• 8 oz orecchiette pasta or other short-cut pasta
• 3 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 3/4 tsp salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, divided
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls or 8 oz diced mozzarella
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes; drain well.
2. Toss the drained pasta with Parmesan, 1 tablespoon olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper until evenly coated.
3. Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, tossing 2-3 times, until the pasta is golden and crisp at the edges.
4. Whisk the remaining 1/4 cup olive oil, balsamic vinegar, remaining salt, and remaining pepper in a large bowl until emulsified.
5. Add the crispy pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve right away while the pasta chips are still crunchy and the tomatoes are juicy.