Stuffed Pasta Chips

Ingredients

• 1 cup California Walnuts (raw, lightly toasted)
• 0.5 cup Yellow Onion (finely diced (about 1/2 medium onion))
• 2 pieces Garlic Cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp Instant Italian Seasoning (store‑bought blend)
• 0.5 tsp Salt (to taste)
• 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (low‑moisture, shredded)
• 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells (large conchiglie, about 12 shells)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil Spray (for coating shells before air frying)

Instructions

1. Toast the Walnuts

   Heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the walnuts and toast, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 4‑5 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.

   Time: PT5M

2. Blend Walnut “Meat”

   In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, diced onion, minced garlic, instant Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse ground meat—still slightly chunky.

   Time: PT5M

3. Add Cheese

   Transfer the walnut mixture to a mixing bowl, add the shredded mozzarella, and stir until evenly incorporated.

   Time: PT3M

4. Cook the Pasta Shells

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 8‑9 minutes. Drain in a colander and rinse briefly with cool water to stop cooking.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 212°F

5. Stuff the Shells

   Using a spoon or small scoop, fill each cooked shell with the walnut‑cheese mixture, pressing lightly to pack the filling.

   Time: PT5M

6. Air Fry

   Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the stuffed shells with olive oil spray. Arrange them in a single layer in the basket (you may need to work in batches). Air fry for 12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the shells are golden‑brown and crisp.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: 400°F

7. Serve

   Remove the shells from the air fryer, let cool for 2 minutes, then serve warm as a snack or appetizer.

   Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

170

Protein

4 g

Carbohydrates

9 g

Fat

8 g

Fiber

0.8 g