Name: Easy Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 zucchini; 1 tbsp garlic-flavored olive oil; sea salt

This easy baked zucchini chips recipe is a light, healthy, and flavorful snack or side dish. It’s a simple and quick recipe that brings out the best in zucchini. With just a handful of ingredients, these chips have a delicious taste that you will love.

Photos of Easy Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

The main ingredient for this recipe is zucchini, a summer squash that's easily found in any supermarket or farmers’ market. While the recipe calls for garlic-flavored olive oil, you can substitute it with regular olive oil and add a bit of garlic powder or fresh minced garlic for flavor. The sea salt is used to enhance the taste. Remember to pick zucchinis that are firm and without any cuts or bruises.

Ingredients for Easy Baked Zucchini Chips

Zucchini: Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. It's rich in antioxidants and water, making it a healthy and hydrating ingredient.

Garlic-flavored olive oil: This oil adds a punch of flavor to the zucchini chips. You can make your own by infusing olive oil with garlic, or substitute it with regular olive oil and a dash of garlic powder.

Sea salt: Sea salt is a natural seasoning that brings out the flavors of the zucchini and olive oil. It’s preferred for its cleaner and more potent flavor compared to table salt.

One reader, Athene Covey says:

These baked zucchini chips are a game-changer! They're so easy to make and taste amazing. The garlic-flavored olive oil adds a delicious kick, and the sea salt gives them the perfect amount of seasoning. I can't get enough of these crispy, guilt-free snacks!

Athene Covey

Techniques Required for Making Easy Baked Zucchini Chips

How to slice the zucchini: Cut the zucchini into thin, even slices, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure they bake evenly and become crispy.

How to season the zucchini: Drizzle the garlic-flavored olive oil over the zucchini slices and lightly toss to coat, ensuring each slice is evenly seasoned.

How to bake the zucchini chips: Spread the seasoned zucchini slices onto a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure they crisp up evenly in the oven. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time for even browning.

How To Make Easy Baked Zucchini Chips

This three-step baked zucchini chips recipe is easy and fast to make. Sprinkle olive oil over zucchini, season with salt, and bake until brown. Done.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1zucchini,thinly sliced
1tbspgarlic-flavored olive oil
sea salt,to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Place zucchini in a bowl. Drizzle olive oil over zucchini and lightly toss to coat; season with salt. Spread zucchini onto a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven until lightly browned for about 20 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 76.33kcal
Fat: 7.06g
Saturated Fat: 1.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.94g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.80g
Carbohydrates: 3.05g
Fiber: 0.98g
Sugar: 2.45g
Protein: 1.19g
Sodium: 243.59mg
Calcium: 15.89mg
Potassium: 255.90mg
Iron: 0.40mg
Vitamin A: 9.80µg
Vitamin C: 17.54mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Easy Baked Zucchini Chips

To ensure your zucchini chips are crispy and not soggy, it's important to slice them as thinly as possible. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform, thin slices. Also, try to remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini before baking. You can do this by laying out the slices on a paper towel and lightly salting them. The salt will help draw out the moisture. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, then pat dry before baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Zucchini Chips

Prep ahead: Chop and season the zucchini in advance to save time on the day of baking.

Use a mandoline slicer: A mandoline slicer will help you achieve uniform zucchini slices quickly and efficiently.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch and store the extra zucchini chips in an airtight container for future snacking.

Invest in a silicone baking mat: Using a silicone baking mat will make cleanup a breeze and save time scrubbing baking sheets.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for zucchini in this recipe.
garlic-flavored olive oil - Substitute with regular olive oil and minced garlic: Using regular olive oil and minced garlic will provide the same garlic flavor without the need for a specific garlic-flavored oil.

Best Way to Present Baked Zucchini Chips

Elevate the zucchini slices: Arrange the baked zucchini chips in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate, creating a visually appealing display.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground black pepper over the zucchini chips to add a subtle hint of spice and a touch of elegance.
Incorporate a dipping sauce: Present the zucchini chips with a side of creamy garlic aioli, served in a delicate ramekin, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Add a touch of green: Garnish the plate with a few sprigs of fresh parsley to introduce a pop of color and a hint of earthy freshness.
Utilize fine dining plating techniques: Employ the use of negative space on the plate to allow the zucchini chips to stand out as the focal point, creating a visually stunning presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Zucchini Chips in the Oven

Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
Olive oil: A flavorful oil used for cooking and dressing salads.
Bowl: A round, deep dish used for mixing and holding ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Zucchini Chips

Allow the zucchini chips to cool completely before storing. This will help them stay crispy and prevent moisture from building up.
Store the cooled zucchini chips in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. To maintain their crispiness, place a sheet of paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.
When stored properly in an airtight container, the zucchini chips will keep for up to 3 days at room temperature. However, they are best consumed within the first day for optimal crispiness.
If you want to keep the zucchini chips for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Place the cooled chips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the chips are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen chips to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To reheat frozen zucchini chips, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the frozen chips in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

How To Reheat Leftover Baked Zucchini Chips

The best way to reheat leftover zucchini chips is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spread the chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they're crispy and heated through. This method will help restore their crunch and prevent them from getting soggy.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the zucchini chips in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel and heat them in 30-second intervals until they're warm and slightly crispy. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can quickly become soggy in the microwave.
For a quick and easy reheat, you can use an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the zucchini chips in the basket. Heat them for 2-3 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they're crispy and heated through. This method is perfect for restoring their crunch without the need to preheat an oven.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your zucchini chips. Preheat the toaster oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chips on the wire rack. Heat them for 3-5 minutes, or until they're crispy and warmed through. This method is ideal for small batches and offers a quick and efficient way to reheat your chips.

Interesting Trivia About Baked Zucchini Chips

Zucchini chips are a healthy alternative to traditional potato chips. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great snack option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Zucchinis are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. By baking the zucchini chips instead of frying them, you can enjoy a delicious and guilt-free snack that is both tasty and nutritious. Plus, they are easy to make and can be seasoned with various herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Is Making Zucchini Chips at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this baked zucchini chips recipe is quite high. Zucchinis are generally affordable, and the minimal ingredient list keeps the cost low. The use of olive oil and sea salt is economical, and the recipe yields a satisfying snack. Considering the affordability of zucchinis and the minimal additional ingredients required, this recipe is cost-effective for a household. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its simplicity, flavor, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $5, making it a budget-friendly option.

Are Baked Zucchini Chips Healthy or Unhealthy?

The easy baked zucchini chips recipe is a relatively healthy snack option. Here's why:

Zucchini is a nutrient-dense vegetable, low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals like potassium and manganese. It's also rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage.
Using garlic-flavored olive oil adds a burst of flavor while providing healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and may help reduce inflammation.
Baking the chips instead of frying them significantly reduces the calorie and fat content, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried chips.
Sea salt is used sparingly, which helps control sodium intake. Excessive sodium consumption can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues.

While this recipe is a step in the right direction, there's always room for improvement:

Try using a variety of herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt. Experiment with paprika, cumin, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Slice the zucchini as thinly as possible to ensure even cooking and crispiness. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for achieving consistent thickness.
For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding other vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips to create a colorful and diverse array of chips.
To make the chips even lighter, use a cooking spray instead of drizzling olive oil. This will help distribute the oil more evenly while using less overall.

Editor's Opinion on This Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe

This easy baked zucchini chips recipe is a simple and healthy snack option. The use of garlic-flavored olive oil adds a delicious savory flavor to the zucchini, while the sea salt enhances the taste. The baking process creates a crispy texture, making it a satisfying alternative to traditional potato chips. However, for added variety, consider incorporating additional seasonings such as paprika or Parmesan cheese. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy zucchini and is perfect for those looking for a guilt-free snack.

Enhance Your Easy Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a honey-lime dressing

Tomato Basil Soup: Rich and velvety tomato basil soup topped with a dollop of pesto cream

Chocolate Fondue: Decadent dark chocolate fondue served with a variety of dippable treats like strawberries and marshmallows

Similar Recipes to Easy Baked Zucchini Chips

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a flavorful filling using ground turkey, quinoa, and a variety of spices. Stuff the bell peppers and bake until tender for a delicious and healthy meal.

Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken: Coat chicken breasts in a mixture of parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and crispy. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a satisfying dinner.

Refreshing Watermelon Salad: Combine juicy watermelon, feta cheese, and fresh mint for a light and refreshing salad. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Zucchini Chips

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty lemon and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a filling of ground turkey, quinoa, and a variety of spices to stuff inside colorful bell peppers. Top with melted cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious strawberry topping for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Easy Baked Zucchini Chips Recipe:

This recipe for baked zucchini chips is a delicious and healthy snack option. The simplicity of the ingredients, including fresh zucchini and flavorful garlic-flavored olive oil, ensures a natural and wholesome taste. The use of sea salt enhances the flavors and provides a satisfying crunch. With just a few simple steps, these zucchini chips are easy to prepare and perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious and tasty snack. Trust in the natural goodness of these baked zucchini chips for a satisfying and guilt-free treat.

Want to share your experience making these Easy Baked Zucchini Chips or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use regular olive oil instead of garlic-flavored olive oil?

Yes, you can use regular olive oil if you don't have garlic-flavored olive oil. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder to the regular olive oil for a similar flavor.

Can I use other seasonings besides sea salt?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as black pepper, paprika, or even grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

How can I ensure the zucchini chips turn out crispy?

To ensure crispy zucchini chips, make sure to slice the zucchini thinly and evenly. Also, be sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the chips to steam instead of crisp up.

Can I store the leftover zucchini chips?

Yes, you can store the leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, for the best crispiness, it's recommended to enjoy them fresh.

Can I use this recipe for other vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other vegetables such as yellow squash, eggplant, or even thinly sliced sweet potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetable's thickness.