You are about to discover an absolute game changer in the world of crunchy snacks with this Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips Recipe. Imagine crispy, tangy chips bursting with that classic salt and vinegar flavor, but made from humble zucchini—light, healthy, and incredibly addictive. Whether you’re craving a guilt-free treat or want to impress friends with something unique, these chips offer the perfect balance of sharp vinegar zing and a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more. Let me walk you through how to turn fresh zucchini into a snack sensation you won’t stop talking about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making these Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips requires just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed masterpiece. Each plays a special role—olive oil adds a touch of richness, vinegar delivers the signature tang, and sea salt brings it all to life, while the optional smoked paprika introduces a subtle smoky warmth to the mix.
- 2 medium zucchini (about 300g): Fresh and firm zucchini are key for achieving crisp, light chips.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Helps the chips crisp up beautifully while adding a mild fruity flavor.
- 1 tsp sea salt: Enhances the natural tastes and delivers that essential salty punch.
- 3 tbsp white vinegar: The star of the recipe, providing that unmistakable tangy zip.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional): Adds depth and a gentle smoky note to elevate the flavor profile.
How to Make Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to a low temperature of 225°F (110°C). This slow baking is what will turn zucchini slices into perfectly crisp chips without burning or drying them out too quickly. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Slice the Zucchini Thinly and Evenly
Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice your zucchini into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner and more uniform your slices, the crisper and more evenly cooked your chips will be, so take your time here—it’s worth it!
Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Vinegar
Place all the zucchini slices in a large bowl, then pour in the olive oil and white vinegar. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every slice is coated. This step builds that iconic salt and vinegar flavor right into the chip, while the oil helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Season with Sea Salt and Optional Smoked Paprika
Sprinkle the sea salt evenly over the coated zucchini slices. If you want to add a smoky twist, dust in the smoked paprika now for a lovely layer of complexity that balances the acidity.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake Slowly
Lay your zucchini rounds in a single layer across the prepared baking sheets, making sure none overlap so they crisp evenly. Slide them into the oven and bake for about 2 hours. This slow cooking process slowly removes moisture and turns zucchini into golden, crunchy chips that are impossible to resist.
Step 6: Cool Completely Before Serving
Once baked to perfection, transfer chips to wire racks to cool completely. This step is crucial as it allows air to circulate and ensures your chips hold onto their crispness rather than getting soggy.
How to Serve Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, sprinkle your chips with fresh herbs like chopped dill or parsley. A light zest of lemon over the top can also enhance the vinegar notes and add freshness that makes every bite pop.
Side Dishes
Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips pair wonderfully with creamy dips like garlic aioli, tzatziki, or even a simple ranch dressing. They also complement grilled or roasted meats, adding a crunchy texture and tangy contrast that livens up any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these chips in small mason jars lined with parchment paper for a charming appetizer at your next gathering. You can also use them as an unexpected taco topping or as crispy croutons in a salad to surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover zucchini chips—though it’s hard to resist eating them all at once—store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them crisp for about 2 days, but avoid storing in the fridge as moisture can make them soggy.
Freezing
While freezing zucchini chips is not generally recommended because they tend to lose their crisp texture upon thawing, you can freeze the raw zucchini slices if you want to prepare ahead. Just pat them dry after thawing before baking fresh to enjoy that unbeatable crunch.
Reheating
If your chips lose some crispness, a quick reheating in a low oven (about 225°F / 110°C) for 5-10 minutes can help revive their texture. Keep a close eye to avoid burning and enjoy them warm and crispy once again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar in this recipe?
Absolutely! While white vinegar gives that classic sharpness, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or malt vinegar for slightly different flavor profiles, but keep the quantity the same to maintain balance.
Is it necessary to use a mandoline slicer?
Not at all, though a mandoline makes slicing super thin and consistent rounds easier. A sharp knife works just fine if you take your time to slice evenly for the best results.
Can I make these zucchini chips without oil?
While skipping oil is possible, a small amount of olive oil helps achieve that golden crispness and enhances flavor. Without it, chips might be drier and less satisfying.
How thin should the zucchini slices be?
About 1/8 inch thick is ideal for even crisping. Thicker slices may stay soft, and thinner slices can burn quickly, so aim for that sweet spot.
Are these chips suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes! Zucchini is naturally low in carbs, making these chips a fantastic low-carb alternative to regular potato chips while still delivering a flavorful crunch.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a deliciously addictive Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips Recipe that transforms everyday zucchini into an extraordinary snack. Once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for plain chips. Their crispy texture, tangy kick, and homemade freshness make them perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to make them, share them, and fall in love just like I did!
