If you’ve ever craved a guilt-free snack, Giada De Laurentiis’s baked kale chips recipe HAS to be top-5 on your list!
These crispy bites are perfect if you want something healthy yet incredibly tasty.
Simple to make, I always make sure the kale leaves are washed and thoroughly dried for the best crunch.
Toss the leaves in a bit of olive oil, and arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet without overlapping.
I love this recipe because it’s quick and easy, and the kale chips come out so pleasantly crisp every time!
How to Make Giada Baked Kale Chips
Ingredients
- 1 bunch Kale
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2:
Wash the kale thoroughly and dry it well. Remove the leaves from the stems and tear them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3:
Place the kale pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss to ensure the leaves are evenly coated.
Step 4:
Arrange the kale pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overlapping to allow for even baking.
Step 5:
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are browned but not burnt. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choose Fresh Kale
Always use fresh kale for the best results. It should be firm and green, not wilted or yellowing.
Keep the Leaves Dry
Make sure the kale leaves are completely dry before baking. This helps them crisp up nicely.
Use Parchment Paper
Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper can help prevent the kale from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
Adjust Seasonings
Feel free to experiment with seasonings. Garlic powder, paprika, or nutritional yeast can add a great flavor twist.
Watch the Oven
Kale chips can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly. Keep a close eye on them during the final baking minutes.
What to Serve with Giada Baked Kale Chips Recipe
Pairing the right dishes can enhance your baked kale chips experience!
Healthy Hummus
Serve with a side of hummus for a creamy and tangy dip.
The rich flavors of the hummus complement the crispy texture of the kale chips perfectly.
Garlic-Yogurt Dip
Try a garlic-yogurt dip for a refreshing twist.
The cool, garlicky notes in the yogurt dip balance the slightly bitter taste of the kale.
Roasted Beet Salad
A roasted beet salad with a citrus vinaigrette adds a sweet and tangy contrast.
The earthy beets pair well with the mild bitterness of the kale chips.
Avocado Toast
Try avocado toast topped with cherry tomatoes alongside your chips.
The creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes provide a delicious contrast in texture and flavor.
Spicy Guacamole
Spicy guacamole adds a zingy kick to your side.
The heat from the spices perfectly balances the light and crispy kale chips.
Variations and Substitutions
You can easily switch up the flavors when making Giada’s baked kale chips!
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try sprinkling the kale with red pepper flakes before baking.
For a cheesy twist, add a bit of nutritional yeast.
Different Oils
Instead of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or coconut oil.
Each oil will give the chips a slightly different taste.
Spices
You can experiment with different spices!
Use garlic powder for a nice kick, or paprika for a smoky flavor.
Cumin and curry powder can add an exotic touch.
Vinegar Flavor
Add a bit of balsamic vinegar for a tangy finish.
This works well if you want that slightly sweet and sour note.
Texture Variations
If you like a creamier texture, toss the kale with tahini before baking.
For extra crunchiness, sprinkle the kale with sesame seeds or chia seeds.
These small seeds add a delightful texture.
Feel free to get creative!
You can mix and match these variations to find your favorite combination.
Happy baking!
How to Store Leftover Giada Baked Kale Chips
Storing leftover baked kale chips is key to keeping them crispy and delicious for as long as possible.
You’ll want to store them in a way that avoids moisture.
Use a Paper Bag or Airtight Container
Place the kale chips in a paper bag and fold down the top.
This helps keep them crisp by allowing air circulation.
Another option is to use an airtight container with a thin layer of dry white rice at the bottom.
The rice will absorb any residual moisture.
Keep in a Dark, Cool Place
Store your container or bag in a dark, cool place to avoid exposure to light and heat.
These factors can make the kale chips lose their crunch.
On the counter away from direct sunlight is usually a good spot.
Let Them Cool Before Storing
Before storing, let your kale chips cool completely to room temperature.
Storing them warm can cause steam, making the chips soggy.
It’s worth waiting a few minutes to make sure they stay crispy.
By following these simple steps, you’ll retain the delightful crunch of your Giada baked kale chips!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet
When you spread the kale on the sheet, avoid placing the pieces too closely together.
Crowding the kale leads to steaming rather than baking, which results in soggy chips.
Be sure to give each piece plenty of room to crispen up nicely.
Not Drying the Kale Properly
It’s crucial to dry the kale thoroughly after washing it.
Any remaining moisture can cause the chips to become chewy and not crispy.
I usually use a salad spinner or pat the leaves dry with a towel.
Using Too Much Oil
You don’t need a lot of oil to make crispy kale chips.
Using too much can make them greasy and weigh them down.
A light drizzle is enough to coat the leaves evenly.
Giada Baked Kale Chips Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 bunch Kale
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash the kale thoroughly and dry it well. Remove the leaves from the stems and tear them into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the kale pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss to ensure the leaves are evenly coated.
- Arrange the kale pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they aren't overlapping to allow for even baking.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are browned but not burnt. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.