Crisp Parmesan Farfalle with Basil Dip
Serve these cute little fried bowties as an appetizer before an Italian dinner.
INGREDIENTS | SERVES 8 to 10
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup yogurt
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 3 tablespoons basil pesto
- 1 (16-ounce) package farfalle pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. On plate, combine flour, salt, pepper, seasoning, and ½ of cheese; mix well.
In bowl, combine mayonnaise, yogurt, basil, and pesto; refrigerate.
Cook pasta according to package directions until tender. Drain well, then spread on kitchen towels to dry. Dry pasta carefully.
Coat pasta in the flour mixture. Heat oil in large skillet. Fry pasta, 8 to 10 at a time, until crisp.
Place on plate and sprinkle with remaining cheese as they are cooked. Serve hot with basil dip.
Frying Pasta
Yes, you can fry pasta. Just make sure the pasta is tender and thoroughly dried before you drop it into the oil. It helps to coat the pasta in a seasoned flour or breadcrumb mixture before frying. Just take your time and your guests will love this appetizer.
