Pasta chips are a modern, plant‑based twist on traditional snack foods. In Ireland, vegan creators like The Happy Pear have popularised them as a crunchy, protein‑rich alternative to potato chips, reflecting the country’s growing interest in sustainable, plant‑forward eating.

While pasta chips themselves are a contemporary invention, Irish snack culture often features potato‑based crisps. Variations may include using different pasta shapes, adding local herbs like parsley or chives, or swapping the dip for a classic Irish soda‑bread spread.

In Irish vegan cafés and gatherings, pasta chips are typically served in a communal bowl with a dip—often a herb‑y avocado or, as in this recipe, a roasted red pepper cashew dip—making them a popular party finger food.

Pasta chips have become a go‑to snack for informal gatherings, after‑work socials, and weekend brunches in Ireland, especially among health‑conscious crowds looking for a crunchy, guilt‑free treat.

They combine the comfort of pasta with the satisfying crunch of chips, delivering protein and fiber while staying completely plant‑based—an innovation that aligns with Ireland’s rising vegan movement.

Common errors include overcrowding the air‑fryer basket, which prevents crisping, and using wet or under‑coated pasta, which leads to soggy chips. Always spread the pasta in a single layer and ensure it’s well‑coated with the breadcrumb‑pesto mixture.

The air fryer achieves a crisp texture with far less oil, making the snack lower in fat and healthier while still delivering the same crunch you’d get from traditional deep‑fried chips.

Yes, the dip can be prepared up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; give it a quick stir before serving to recombine any settled ingredients.

The dip should be smooth, thick, and glossy—resembling mayonnaise. There should be no visible nut pieces, and the colour should be a bright orange‑red from the peppers.

The chips are ready when they turn golden‑brown, are firm to the touch, and make a distinct crunch when bitten. If any pieces are still soft, give them an extra 2‑3 minutes in the air fryer.

The Happy Pear is an Irish YouTube channel run by twin brothers who focus on vibrant, plant‑based recipes, nutrition tips, and lifestyle content that makes vegan cooking accessible and enjoyable for home cooks.

The Happy Pear blends Irish culinary traditions with global vegan flavors, emphasizing whole‑food ingredients, simple techniques, and a friendly, community‑focused presentation that feels more like a conversation than a formal cooking class.

The Happy Pear is famous for recipes such as their vegan Irish stew, cauliflower cheese bake, plant‑based breakfast bowls, and their signature smoothie bowls that showcase seasonal Irish produce.