As summer’s bounty rolls in, there’s nothing quite like biting into a crispy, flavorful snack that satisfies while keeping you on the healthier side of indulgence. That’s where my Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips come in. Imagine plucking fresh zucchini from your garden or the local farmer’s market, transforming them into crunchy chips that boast a zesty kick of salt and vinegar. These baked delights are not only gluten-free and low-calorie; they’re perfect for keeping those snack cravings at bay without the guilt of traditional chips.

During an afternoon of meal prepping, I realized that I wanted something different—a snack that feels sinful but is really good for me. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, I discovered a game-changer. Say goodbye to store-bought snacks loaded with preservatives, and hello to these irresistible zucchini chips that you can whip up in your own kitchen. Ready to experience that addictive crunch? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips Amazing?

Crunchy Satisfaction: Each bite offers a delightful crunch that mirrors your favorite traditional chips without the guilt.
Flavor Explosion: The tangy salt and vinegar elevate these healthy chips to a crave-worthy snack.
Easy Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip these up in no time!
Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect as a solo snack or paired with your favorite dips like tzatziki or ranch.
Healthy Indulgence: Gluten-free and low-calorie, making them a smart alternative to processed snacks.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Great for batch cooking to keep on hand for a quick, satisfying munch.

Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips Ingredients

For the Chips
• Zucchini – Aim for medium-sized, firm zucchinis for the best texture; yellow zucchini works as a delicious alternative.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect crisp; opt for Bertolli Extra Light for a neutral taste.
• White Balsamic Vinegar – This sweeter, milder vinegar brings a unique tang that complements the chips; you can use apple cider vinegar as a substitute if needed.
• Salt – A vital ingredient for enhancing flavor and helping to draw out moisture for an ultra-crispy texture; add right before baking for best results.

How to Make Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips

Preheat your oven to 200°F (if you’re baking). This low temperature allows for a gentle drying process, ensuring crisp chips without burnt edges.
Slice the zucchini into thin, uniform rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife helps achieve consistent thickness for optimal cooking.
Whisk together the olive oil and white balsamic vinegar in a bowl until thoroughly combined. This mixture will coat the zucchini and add that delicious tangy flavor.
Toss the zucchini slices in the oil-vinegar blend until they’re well-coated. This step infuses each chip with flavor, ensuring every bite is as tangy as the last.
Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture. This is crucial—removing moisture helps achieve that satisfying crunch.
Sprinkle salt over the zucchini slices and toss gently to distribute it evenly. Add the salt just before baking to maximize flavor while maintaining crispiness.
Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on a baking sheet or dehydrator rack. Make sure they’re not overlapping to ensure even cooking.
Choose your cooking method:

For a dehydrator, set it to 135°F and let it cook for 8-14 hours.
For the oven, bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway for even crisping.
For an air fryer, cook at 250°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Check for doneness when the chips are completely dry and snap easily when bent. This snap signifies that they’re perfectly crispy!
Cool on a rack for 10-15 minutes, allowing them to get even crisper as they finish cooling.

Optional: Serve these chips with dips like ranch or tzatziki for an extra flavor kick.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips

Airtight Container: Store your zucchini chips in an airtight container to preserve their crispiness for up to 2 days.

Cool Completely: Ensure the chips have cooled completely before storing; this prevents moisture buildup, keeping your snacks crunchy.

Room Temperature: Keep the container at room temperature away from direct sunlight for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating: If you want to revive some crispiness after storage, consider placing them back in a warm oven for a few minutes.

What to Serve with Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips?

These zesty, tasty zucchini chips are perfect for pairing and elevating your snack game!

Creamy Dip: Whip up a homemade ranch or tzatziki; the coolness complements the tangy crunch beautifully.
Fresh Veggie Platter: Serve alongside a vibrant array of fresh vegetables—like carrot sticks and bell pepper strips—for a colorful, healthy snack spread.
Savory Sandwiches: Pair these chips with turkey or veggie sandwiches; the crunch adds a delightful texture to your meal.
Light Salad: Toss this snack beside a crunchy cucumber and cherry tomato salad for a burst of freshness that enhances flavors.
Cheese Board: Include them on a cheese platter to offer a salty contrast to creamy cheeses and sweet fruits.
Craft Beer: A light, crisp lager or a zesty IPA enhances the tangy flavor of the chips, making for a fun adult snack experience.
Movie Night Treats: Enjoy them during movie nights, either alone or with your favorite dip, creating a satisfying, guilt-free treat.
Nut Mix: A handful of seasoned nuts alongside your chips creates a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Fruit Salsa: Serve with a fruity salsa for a surprising twist—a sweet layer to the salty crunch that’s sure to please!

Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these crispy delights to your taste!

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the oil-vinegar mixture for a fiery zing that enhances every bite. Perfect for heat lovers!
Garlic Infusion: Mix in garlic powder with the oil to enjoy a savory, aromatic touch that perfectly complements the tang.
Cheesy Flair: Sprinkle nutritional yeast or grated Parmesan after baking for a cheesy flavor without the calories of traditional cheese.
Vinegar Variety: Experiment with apple cider or white wine vinegar for unique tangy twists that keep the flavor fresh and exciting.
Herb Blend: Toss in dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the zucchini for an aromatic experience that elevates the taste.
Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest to the oil-vinegar mix for a refreshing zing that brightens each crunchy chip.
Sweet Touch: Drizzle a hint of honey or maple syrup in the oil mixture for a delightful, sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Smoky Flavor: Include smoked paprika for a smoky, barbecue-inspired twist that adds depth and complexity to every bite.

Expert Tips for Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips

• Choose Smaller Zucchinis: Using smaller, firm zucchinis will yield the crispiest chips; large, seedy zucchinis can produce a soggy result.

• Consistent Thickness: Aim for even slices, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure all chips bake evenly and reach that perfect crunch without burning.

• Dry Thoroughly: Pat the zucchini slices dry to remove moisture; skipping this step can lead to chewy chips instead of the desired crunch you’re after.

• Avoid High Heat: Resist the temptation to increase the oven temperature to speed up cooking. This can lead to burnt edges while the insides remain chewy.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize your Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips by adding garlic powder, paprika, or nutritional yeast for extra flavor!

Make Ahead Options

These Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips are a fantastic choice for meal prep, ensuring you always have a healthy snack ready to go! You can slice and season the zucchini up to 24 hours in advance—just toss the rounds in olive oil and white balsamic vinegar, pat them dry, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This not only simplifies your cooking but also enhances the flavor as they soak up the tanginess. When it’s time to enjoy, simply sprinkle on the salt and bake as directed. Your chips will come out just as delicious and crispy, making snacking a breeze on busy days!

Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best zucchini for my chips?
Absolutely! When selecting zucchini for your chips, look for medium-sized, firm specimens with smooth skin. Avoid large, seedy zucchinis, as they tend to be watery and won’t crisp up well. If you find yourself with only yellow zucchini, don’t worry! It makes a delicious alternative with a slightly different flavor profile.

How can I store leftover zucchini chips?
Very good question! To keep your Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips fresh and crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll maintain their crunchiness for up to 2 days, but be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Can I freeze zucchini chips for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze your chips, ensure they are completely cool, then lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just bake them straight from frozen at a low temperature until crisp.

What if my zucchini chips turn out chewy?
No worries! If your chips aren’t as crispy as you’d hoped, it’s likely due to excess moisture. Always ensure you pat the slices dry before cooking. Additionally, slicing the zucchini uniformly (about 1/8 inch thick) is crucial. If they’re still chewy after baking, they may not have cooked long enough. Be sure to check for that satisfying snap before cooling!

Are zucchini chips safe for my pets?
Absolutely! While zucchini can be a healthy treat for dogs, it’s best to avoid adding salt or any seasonings. Offer them plain, uncooked zucchini in moderation as a refreshing snack. However, always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.

What are some alternative seasonings I can use?
I love this part! You can get creative with your seasonings by adding garlic powder, paprika, or nutritional yeast to give your Best Salt and Vinegar Zucchini Chips an extra flavor kick. Just sprinkle these on after tossing the zucchini in the oil-vinegar mixture, before baking for a delightful, customized chip experience!