Craving a healthy snack that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Look no further than air fryer kale chips.
This quick, nutritious, and crispy treat satisfies your craving for something crunchy without the guilt.
Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up that extra kale in your fridge.
Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will quickly become a household favorite.
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Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of fresh kale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kale
Start by washing the kale thoroughly under cold running water. Dry it completely using a salad spinner or by patting it with a clean kitchen towel. Ensuring the kale is dry is crucial to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Once dried, remove the thick stems and tear the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season the Kale
Place the kale pieces in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. If you’re using additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or nutritional yeast, add them at this stage.
Toss the kale gently to ensure every piece is evenly coated with oil and seasonings. This step helps the kale crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures that the kale chips will cook evenly and achieve maximum crispiness.
4. Air Fry the Kale
Place the seasoned kale in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket — you may need to cook the kale in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Spread the kale out in a single layer to allow for even cooking.
Air fry the kale for 5–7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on the kale during the last few minutes to prevent burning. The chips are ready when they are crispy and slightly browned around the edges.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the kale chips are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. This cooling time allows them to crisp up even more. Serve them immediately as a healthy snack or a side dish. They pair perfectly with your favorite dip or can be enjoyed on their own.
Notes and Tips:
- Choosing Kale: Curly kale works best for this recipe due to its texture and ability to hold onto seasonings. However, you can experiment with other varieties like Tuscan kale for a different taste and texture
- Oil Alternatives: If you prefer a lower-fat option, use a cooking spray instead of drizzling olive oil. Just make sure to spray evenly.
- Storage: Store leftover kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If they lose their crispiness, you can reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes.
- Customization: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Try adding chili flakes for a spicy kick or lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy: Kale is a nutrient-dense superfood packed with vitamins A, C, and K. Making chips out of it is a fun way to incorporate more greens into your diet.
- Quick: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of kale chips in under 15 minutes.
- Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
- Versatile: Kale chips are a great snack on their own, but they also make a crunchy topping for salads, soups, and grain bowls.
Conclusion:
Air fryer kale chips are a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional chips. With their satisfying crunch and endless seasoning possibilities, they make the perfect snack for any time of day. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them sooner!
