Looking for a delicious and guilt-free snack that will satisfy your crunchy cravings? Meet Roasted Balsamic Kale Chips – the ultimate way to enjoy your greens! With a perfect balance of tangy balsamic vinegar and the rich flavor of olive oil, these crispy treats will leave you wondering why you ever reached for potato chips. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these addictive, nutrient-packed snacks that are not only easy to make but also incredibly good for you. Get ready to elevate your snacking game and impress your friends with this simple yet delightful recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale, washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Optional: garlic powder or nutritional yeast for flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving crispy kale chips without burning them.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the kale. Remove the tough stems from the kale leaves and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn kale pieces with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Use your hands to massage the oil into the kale, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving crispy chips.
- Add 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the kale and continue to massage the leaves. The vinegar will add a tangy flavor and help to crisp the kale as it roasts.
- Season the kale with salt to taste. If you’d like to add extra flavor, sprinkle in some garlic powder or nutritional yeast at this stage and mix well.
- Spread the seasoned kale evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the pieces are not overlapping to allow for even roasting.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the kale chips for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly. The chips are done when they are crispy and slightly browned.
- Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the kale chips cool for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Serve the roasted balsamic kale chips immediately as a healthy snack or appetizer. Enjoy!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Kale: For the best results, select a bunch of fresh, vibrant kale. Look for leaves that are deep green and free from any yellow or brown spots.
- Dry the Kale Thoroughly: After washing the kale, make sure it's completely dry before tossing it with oil. Excess moisture can lead to soggy chips instead of crispy ones.
- Uniform Size Matters: Tear the kale into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. This way, every chip will be perfectly crispy!
- Don’t Skip the Massage: Massaging the oil and vinegar into the kale is essential for flavor and texture. Take your time to ensure every leaf is coated.
- Watch Closely While Roasting: Kale chips can go from perfectly crispy to burnt in a matter of minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking for the best results.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings! Try adding different spices or even a sprinkle of cheese for a unique twist.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store your kale chips in an airtight container. They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them for a day or two.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
