Crispy Pasta and Cheese Fritters

Steps

1. Bring a salted pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta, rinse under cold water, and shake off excess water.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Make a well in the center, crack in the egg, and whisk it in, then whisk in the club soda until a creamy batter forms.
5. Add the shredded cheese, Dijon mustard, chopped chives, and salt & pepper to the batter and mix well.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the batter and mix until well combined.
7. Heat olive oil in a large fry pan over medium heat.
8. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pan in a single layer, spaced apart, and fry in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
9. Transfer fritters to a paper towel-lined dish; keep warm in a low oven if needed.
10. To make the aioli, mash the garlic, saffron, and a pinch of salt together in a mortar with a pestle.
11. Whisk in the mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt & pepper until smooth and creamy.
12. Transfer the aioli to a serving dish, arrange the fritters around it, and garnish with chopped chives.
13. Serve immediately.