Fried Pasta Crisps

Fried Pasta Crisps

1/2 pound Any small filled pasta
Oil for frying
1/3 cup Parmesan
1 teaspoon Dried basil
1/8 teaspoon Cayenne
Garlic salt

If pasta doesn't feel moist and supple, cover with boiling water and
let stand until softened, 5 minutes.

Drain. Spread soaked pasta on a 10x15" baking pan lined with paper
towels. Blot pasta gently and let dry 5 minutes. If pasta feels moist,
omit soaking and drying step. Meanwhile, place 1/3 of the pasta in a
skillet with heated oil. Cook, turning occasionally, until golden and
crisp, 2-3 minutes. Remove with slotted spoon and drain. Serve or keep
warm in a 200~ oven up to 30 minutes while frying remaining pasta. In a
bag, mix cheese, basil, cayenne, and garlic salt to taste. Add warm
pasta and shake to coat. Pour into bowl. Offer pasta with cocktail
sauce for dipping.

Makes 60-80 appetizers, 10-12 servings.