Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

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Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

Crispy zucchini chips are a fantastic healthy keto snack that you can enjoy any time. This Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe is easy to follow and perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a movie night, a party, or just a simple snack at home. Not only are they deliciously crunchy, but they also provide a guilt-free way to satisfy your cravings. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, these chips will quickly become one of your favorite go-to snacks!

Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthy Alternative: These baked zucchini chips are low in calories and carbs, making them an excellent option for those on a keto diet.
  • Easy to Make: The preparation takes minimal time and effort, allowing you to whip up a batch quickly.
  • Versatile Flavoring: You can customize the seasoning to your liking, from spicy to savory, depending on your mood.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these chips are sure to impress.
  • Great Shelf Life: Store them for up to three days without losing their crispiness (just re-crisp if needed).

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your zucchini chips, you’ll need some essential tools. These will make slicing and baking easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mandolin slicer or food processor
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Colander or sieve
  • Spice shaker

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mandolin slicer or food processor: Ensures uniform thickness for even cooking and crispiness.
  • Baking sheets: Provides ample space for laying out zucchini slices without overcrowding.
  • Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for this delicious Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe:

For the Chips

  • 1 large zucchini
  • 1/2 tsp salt (divided)
  • Avocado oil spray (or 1 to 2 tsp liquid oil)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp ground pepper
  • Additional salt to taste

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Baked

How to Make Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

Step 1: Slice the Zucchini

Slice the zucchini crosswise into 1/8 inch thick slices using either a mandolin slicer or food processor. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Drain the Zucchini Slices

Place the sliced zucchini in layers into a colander or sieve. Sprinkle each layer with a little salt (you’ll use about 1/4 tsp total). Allow them to drain for one hour.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 225°F (about 107°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 4: Prepare the Slices for Baking

Lay the drained zucchini slices out on a tea towel. Pat them dry with another tea towel. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheets close together but not touching. Lightly spray with avocado oil spray or brush with liquid oil.

Step 5: Season the Chips

In a spice shaker, combine smoked paprika, ground pepper, and the remaining salt. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the tops of your zucchini slices.

Step 6: Bake the Chips

Bake in the preheated oven for 70 to 90 minutes until they are dry, browned, and crisp. Rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time. If some chips become crisp early, remove them from the pans while letting the rest continue baking.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once baked, sprinkle additional salt over the chips according to your taste preferences. Serve immediately for maximum crunchiness.

Step 8: Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chips in a covered container at room temperature for up to three days. If they soften as they sit, simply re-crisp them in a warm oven before serving again.

How to Serve Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

Crispy baked zucchini chips are not just a snack; they can enhance your meals in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your experience with this tasty treat.

As a Standalone Snack

  • Enjoy the zucchini chips plain for a healthy, crunchy snack that satisfies your cravings without guilt.

With Dips

  • Pair them with your favorite dips like hummus or guacamole for a flavorful twist.

On Salads

  • Crumble the chips over salads to add an enjoyable crunch and flavor boost.

With Sandwiches

  • Use them as a side instead of traditional chips with sandwiches for a healthier option.

As Toppings

  • Sprinkle zucchini chips on soups or stews as a unique topping for added texture.

For Movie Nights

  • Serve them alongside popcorn for a fun and healthy movie night snack alternative.

How to Perfect Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

Perfecting your baked zucchini chips can make all the difference. Here are some handy tips to ensure your chips turn out crispy and delicious every time.

  • Slice Evenly: Use a mandolin slicer for uniform thickness, which helps them cook evenly.
  • Drain Thoroughly: Allowing the zucchini to drain helps remove excess moisture, leading to crispier chips.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Lay the slices close but not touching on the baking sheet. This ensures they cook properly and become crispy.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different spices like garlic powder or chili powder for varied flavors.
  • Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.
  • Re-crisp if Needed: If the chips lose their crunch, simply pop them back in the oven for a few minutes.
Baked

Best Side Dishes for Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

Baked zucchini chips complement various dishes beautifully. Here are some great side dish options to pair with them.

  1. Grilled Chicken Salad: A fresh salad with grilled chicken offers protein and greens that balance well with crispy zucchini.
  2. Quinoa Bowl: A nutrient-rich quinoa bowl brings together flavors and textures that go hand-in-hand with these chips.
  3. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A vibrant vegetable stir-fry adds color and nutrition, making it a perfect companion for your zucchini chips.
  4. Turkey Wraps: Wraps filled with lean turkey and fresh veggies create a satisfying meal when served alongside crunchy chips.
  5. Homemade Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole pairs delightfully with the crispiness of baked zucchini chips.
  6. Tomato Soup: The warmth of tomato soup contrasts beautifully with cold, crunchy zucchini snacks, creating an enjoyable eating experience.
  7. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish loaded with seasonal vegetables complements the flavors of baked zucchini nicely.
  8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides sweetness that balances the savory taste of the zucchini chips perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making baked zucchini chips can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can lead to soggy or unevenly cooked chips. Here are a few to avoid:

  • Skipping the Salting Step: Failing to salt the zucchini slices properly can result in watery chips. Always sprinkle salt between layers and let them drain to remove excess moisture.

  • Not Preheating the Oven: If you don’t preheat your oven, the zucchini chips may cook unevenly. Make sure the oven is at 225°F before placing your baking sheets inside.

  • Overcrowding the Baking Sheets: Placing too many slices close together can lead to steaming instead of baking, making them soggy. Arrange the slices so they are close but not touching.

  • Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking for too little time will leave you with chewy chips. Keep an eye on them as they bake, checking for crispness after about 70 minutes.

  • Using High Heat: Baking at temperatures higher than recommended can cause burnt edges while leaving the centers soft. Stick to the low temperature for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Duration: Store baked zucchini chips in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Container: Use a covered container to keep them fresh and crispy longer.

Freezing Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

  • Duration: For long-term storage, freeze baked zucchini chips for up to 2 months.
  • Container: Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.

Reheating Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place chips on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy again.

  • Microwave: Heat on high for 30-60 seconds; however, this may make them less crispy.

  • Stovetop: Warm in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until crisp again.

Baked

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ensure my Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe turns out crispy?

To achieve crispy zucchini chips, it’s essential to remove excess moisture by salting and allowing them to drain before baking.

Can I use different seasonings in my Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even cheese powder for added flavor.

How long do homemade Baked Zucchini Chips last?

Homemade baked zucchini chips can last up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.

What are some dipping sauces that go well with Baked Zucchini Chips?

Zucchini chips pair wonderfully with dips like hummus, guacamole, or a spicy ranch dressing for added zest.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various seasonings based on your taste preferences. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these crispy delights are sure to impress. Try making them today and enjoy a healthy alternative!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

Baked Zucchini Chips


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

Description

Crispy baked zucchini chips are the perfect guilt-free snack for anyone looking for a healthy, keto-friendly option. This simple recipe transforms fresh zucchini into delicious, crunchy chips that can be enjoyed on movie nights, at parties, or as an everyday treat. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a satisfying snack ready in no time. Customize the seasoning to match your cravings, and impress your friends and family with this versatile snack that pairs well with various dips or salads.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large zucchini
  • 1/2 tsp salt (divided)
  • Avocado oil spray (or 1 to 2 tsp liquid oil)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp ground pepper
  • Additional salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 225°F (107°C).
  2. Slice the zucchini crosswise into 1/8-inch thick rounds using a mandolin or food processor.
  3. Layer zucchini slices in a colander, sprinkling each layer with salt. Allow them to drain for one hour.
  4. Pat slices dry with a towel and arrange on parchment-lined baking sheets without overlapping.
  5. Lightly spray with avocado oil and season with smoked paprika, ground pepper, and remaining salt.
  6. Bake for 70-90 minutes until crisp and golden brown, rotating sheets halfway through.
  7. Cool slightly before serving; store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 90 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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