Enjoy the health benefits of kale with a flavorful twist. This recipe of Crispy Lemon and Parmesan Kale Chips brings you a healthy snack that is quick and easy to prepare. It combines the earthy taste of kale with the tang of lemon and the rich flavor of Parmesan, resulting in an addictively crunchy and savory treat. It's perfect for those looking for a nutritious, low-carb alternative to standard snack foods.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common, you might not always have curly kale or parmigiano-reggiano on hand. Curly kale is a type of kale with ruffled leaves and a slightly bitter and peppery flavor. It's often available in the produce section of most grocery stores. Parmigiano-reggiano, also known as Parmesan, is a hard, granular cheese with a sharp, complex fruity/nutty taste. It's typically found in the cheese section.
Ingredients for Crispy Lemon and Parmesan Kale Chips
Curly kale: This is the star of the show. Curly kale is a type of kale that has ruffled leaves and a slightly bitter and peppery flavor. It's high in nutrients and makes for a great chip base.
Extra virgin olive oil: This will help to crisp up the kale and add a richness to the flavor.
Salt: Just a little bit of this will bring out all the flavors.
Lemon: This will add a nice tangy touch to balance out the earthy taste of the kale.
Parmigiano-Reggiano: This cheese adds a sharp, complex flavor that elevates the dish.
One reader, Jed Hawes says:
I recently tried the crispy lemon and parmesan kale chips recipe, and it was a game-changer! The combination of zesty lemon and savory parmesan took the kale chips to a whole new level. The crispy texture and burst of flavors made it an instant hit with my family. Highly recommend!
Essential Techniques for Making Crispy Kale Chips
How to prepare kale leaves: Remove the tough stems from the kale leaves and tear them into bite-sized pieces. Wash and thoroughly dry the leaves before using them in the recipe.
How to bake kale chips: Spread the kale leaves in a single layer on the baking sheets to ensure even crisping. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
How to season kale chips: Sprinkle the freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano and salt over the warm kale chips to ensure the cheese adheres to the leaves. Squeeze a small amount of lemon juice over the chips for a hint of citrus flavor.
How To Make Crispy Kale Chips with Lemon and Parmesan
Low fat crispy kale chips are tossed in tangy lemon and nutty parmesan to yield a delicious and flavorfully guilty-free snack to munch on!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbcurly kale,leaves removed from tough stems and torn into large pieces
- 2tbspextra virgin olive oil
- ¼tspsalt
- lemon
- 3tbspparmigiano-reggiano,freshly grated
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with aluminum foil.
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In a large bowl, using your hands, toss the kale leaves with the olive oil until evenly coated. Arrange the kale in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets.
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Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the leaves are completely crisp but not browned.
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While the leaves are still warm, sprinkle with Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt and a squeeze of lemon. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
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Transfer to a platter, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 142.56kcal
- Fat: 9.61g
- Saturated Fat: 2.18g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.51g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.13g
- Carbohydrates: 10.15g
- Fiber: 4.08g
- Sugar: 2.62g
- Protein: 7.35g
- Cholesterol: 4.74mg
- Sodium: 284.48mg
- Calcium: 252.79mg
- Potassium: 563.30mg
- Iron: 1.76mg
- Vitamin A: 581.42µg
- Vitamin C: 136.08mg
Key Technique for Achieving Perfect Crispiness in Kale Chips
When preparing your kale chips, ensure to remove the thick stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. This not only makes the chips easier to eat but also helps them to cook more evenly. Additionally, when tossing the kale with olive oil, make sure every leaf is lightly coated. This will give your chips that perfect crispy texture without making them overly greasy. Lastly, remember to spread the kale in a single layer on your baking sheet. Overlapping can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which may result in soggy chips.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Kale Chips
Prep ahead: Wash and dry the kale in advance and store it in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. This will save time when you're ready to make the chips.
Use pre-grated cheese: Opt for pre-grated parmigiano-reggiano to skip the grating step and save time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of kale chips and store them in an airtight container for a quick and healthy snack throughout the week.
Convection setting: If your oven has a convection setting, use it to speed up the cooking process and achieve crispier kale chips in less time.
Invest in a salad spinner: A salad spinner can help dry the kale leaves quickly, saving time and ensuring the chips crisp up nicely in the oven.
Substitute Ingredients For Crispy Kale Chips with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe
- curly kale – Substitute with Swiss chard: Swiss chard has a similar texture and can be used as a substitute for kale in recipes.
- extra virgin olive oil – Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
- salt – Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a slightly different flavor profile.
- lemon – Substitute with lime: Lime can be used as a substitute for lemon to provide a similar citrusy flavor to the kale chips.
- freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano – Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano cheese has a similar sharp and salty flavor to Parmigiano-Reggiano and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
Best Way to Serve Crispy Lemon and Parmesan Kale Chips
- Elevate the kale chips: Arrange the crispy lemon and parmesan kale chips in a delicate kale leaf bowl for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with lemon zest: Sprinkle a touch of freshly grated lemon zest over the kale chips to add a burst of citrus aroma and a pop of color.
- Serve on a marble platter: Present the kale chips on a sleek marble platter to create a sophisticated and luxurious presentation.
- Add edible flowers: Garnish the kale chips with delicate edible flowers to add a touch of beauty and elegance to the dish.
- Use a fine cheese shaver: Shave the parmigiano-reggiano using a fine cheese shaver to create delicate, paper-thin cheese curls for an exquisite finishing touch.
- Serve with a lemon wedge: Accompany the kale chips with a small lemon wedge on the side for a fresh and zesty flavor enhancement.
- Sprinkle with edible gold dust: For a truly luxurious touch, lightly dust the kale chips with edible gold dust to add a shimmering, opulent finish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Kale Chips
- Cutting board: A flat surface for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife for various cutting tasks.
- Baking sheets: Used for baking and roasting, essential for making crispy kale chips.
- Mixing bowl: For tossing the kale leaves with olive oil and seasoning.
- Aluminum foil: Lining the baking sheets to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Grater: For grating the parmigiano-reggiano cheese.
- Citrus juicer: For squeezing fresh lemon juice over the kale chips.
- Platter: For serving the crispy lemon and parmesan kale chips.
Tips for Storing and Freezing Homemade Kale Chips
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Once the kale chips have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, place a sheet of paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.
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If you want to keep the kale chips fresh for a longer period, you can freeze them. Arrange the cooled chips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the chips are frozen solid.
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After freezing, transfer the kale chips to a freezer-safe, resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the bag with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
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To reheat frozen kale chips, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the frozen chips in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are crispy and heated through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
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Note that the lemon and parmesan flavors may diminish slightly after freezing and reheating. If desired, you can sprinkle a little extra parmesan cheese and squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the reheated chips to refresh the flavors.
How to Reheat Leftover Kale Chips
Here are the best methods for reheating leftover crispy lemon and parmesan kale chips:
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Oven method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the leftover kale chips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the chips are crisp and warm. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. This method helps restore the crispiness of the chips while maintaining their flavor.
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Air fryer method: If you have an air fryer, this is an excellent way to reheat your kale chips. Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and place the chips in the basket in a single layer. Air fry for 1-2 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The hot air circulation will quickly crisp up the chips without the need for additional oil.
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Microwave method (not recommended): While it's possible to reheat kale chips in the microwave, it's not the best method as it can make the chips soggy and unevenly heated. If you must use the microwave, place the chips on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave on high for 10-15 seconds, then check for crispiness. Repeat in 5-second intervals if needed, but be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chips to burn.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to let the reheated kale chips cool for a minute or two before serving, as they will be very hot. If desired, you can sprinkle a little extra grated parmesan or a light squeeze of lemon juice to refresh the flavors before serving.
Interesting Fact About Kale Chips
Kale chips are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and fiber.
Is Making Kale Chips at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this crispy lemon and parmesan kale chips recipe is quite high. Kale is an affordable and nutrient-dense vegetable, and the other ingredients are also relatively inexpensive. The recipe yields a large batch of kale chips, making it a cost-effective snack or side dish for a household. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $5-$7. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Kale Chips Healthy or Unhealthy?
This kale chips recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips. Here's why:
- Kale is a nutrient-dense superfood packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber.
- Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
- Parmesan cheese adds a savory flavor and a boost of protein and calcium.
- The recipe uses minimal ingredients and avoids deep-frying, making it a lower-calorie snack option.
However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used to lower the overall calorie and fat content. Try using a cooking spray or lightly brushing the kale leaves with oil instead.
- Experiment with different seasonings to reduce the need for added salt. Try using a salt-free seasoning blend, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for added flavor without the sodium.
- Incorporate other nutrient-dense ingredients, such as:
- Nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor along with B vitamins and protein.
- Finely chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch, healthy fats, and protein.
- Consider using a variety of kale, such as lacinato or red kale, to mix up the texture and flavor profile while still reaping the nutritional benefits.
Editor's Opinion on This Kale Chip Recipe
The recipe for crispy lemon and parmesan kale chips is a delightful and healthy snack option. The combination of the tangy lemon, savory parmesan, and crispy kale creates a burst of flavors and textures. The use of olive oil adds a rich and luxurious touch. The addition of a squeeze of lemon at the end brightens up the dish, balancing the flavors perfectly. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a guilt-free and delicious snack.
Enhance Your Crispy Kale Chips with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Crispy Kale Chips with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe:
The crispy texture of the kale chips ensures a satisfying crunch, while the addition of lemon imparts a refreshing citrusy zing. The use of parmesan adds a rich and savory depth of flavor. This recipe's careful instructions and precise measurements guarantee consistent results, earning the trust of users. The combination of kale, lemon, and parmesan creates a harmonious blend of tastes and textures, making it a reliable and delicious choice for a healthy snack.
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