Healthy Snack: Brussels Sprouts Chips

Growing up there were very few vegetables I would willingly eat. Any green vegetables were pretty much off the table and brussels sprouts were never served growing up. In retrospect, I think I would only willing eat corn. But alas, time has moved on and my horizons and eating habits have grown and changed.

In fact, one of the green vegetables I’ve grown to really enjoying are brussels sprouts. The caveat, of course, is that they must be correctly prepared which includes being seasoned and a bit crisp. Bland and soggy brussels sprouts are just plain sad. But more than roasting brussels sprouts, I’ve got another delicious and snack worthy way to get your greens and enjoy them too. They are so good you’ll crave them!

Brussels sprouts chips. They are a bit of a labor of love, but with a cutting board, a sharp knife and a few minutes you’ll have yourself that much closer to a really good, guilt-free snack or appetizer. TIP: using prewashed, ready to eat sprouts will save you some prep time, too.

The most labor intensive part of the process is cutting down the sprouts so you’re working with individual leaves and getting as many as possible from each sprout. I start by cutting the sprouts at the base, usually cutting the base a few times per sprout as I go, to get as many leaves as possible. I just toss the leaves into a bowl or onto a sheet pan as I work through the sprouts.

When I’ve got the amount that I want I add just a bit of olive oil and some sea salt, to taste, and toss everything together to ensure the oil and salt are evenly distributed. You don’t want the chips soaked in olive oil, so use less than you think you’ll need. You can always add more. I got an olive oil spray from Trader Joe’s and find it much easier to evenly distribute the oil from the start.

I’ve found that the best way to ensure that the chips crisp up evenly is to bake them at 325 degrees for about 10-11 minutes (closer to 18-20 minutes if you’re filling up a sheet pan), but note that every oven is different so keep an eye on them. Give them a toss mid-way through baking. When most of the chips start browning, they’re done. After removing the chips from the oven, leave them on the baking sheet and give them a minute or two to crisp up a bit more before serving. Add extra salt to taste if desired.

Voila! Perfectly golden brown and crisp brussels sprouts chips!

These chips are crispy and salty and perfect when you’re craving something salty yet healthy. Bonus? You don’t have to feel guilty for eating the entire bowl because #brusselssprouts!

Are you a fan of brussels sprouts? Will you try these brussels sprouts chips? Let me know if you do!

 

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