Description
Crispy Zucchini Chips are a healthy and delicious snack made by thinly slicing zucchinis, seasoning them with a flavorful blend of olive oil, sea salt, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and optional Parmesan cheese, then slowly baking them at a low temperature until perfectly crisp. This recipe yields a guilt-free, crunchy treat that pairs well with dips or can be enjoyed on their own.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2-3 medium zucchinis (Choose medium-sized zucchinis for best results.)
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (helps achieve a crispy texture)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (enhances flavor and helps draw out moisture)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (adds smokiness and color)
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder (infuses a savory note)
- 1 pinch black pepper (adjust according to preference)
Optional
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) to prepare for slow baking the zucchini slices.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Wash and Dry Zucchini: Thoroughly wash the zucchinis and dry them completely to remove excess moisture, ensuring crispiness.
- Slice Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into thin, even rounds about 1/8 inch thick to ensure uniform baking.
- Mix Seasoning: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, sea salt, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese if using, creating a flavorful coating.
- Coat Zucchini: Toss the zucchini slices in the seasoned olive oil mixture until they are evenly coated with the spices and oil.
- Arrange on Baking Sheets: Lay the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, making sure they do not overlap for even crisping.
- Bake: Bake the zucchini slices for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through to ensure even baking and crispiness.
- Cool: Once baked to a crispy texture, allow the chips to cool for a few minutes; they will become even crispier as they cool.
- Store: Store leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container to maintain their crispness for later enjoyment.
Notes
- For best results, slice the zucchini as evenly as possible to ensure uniform cooking.
- Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- If you want a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Store chips in an airtight container at room temperature; they are best eaten within 2-3 days.
- You can experiment with other seasonings such as chili powder or Italian herbs for different flavor profiles.
