As someone who loves experimenting with new snacks, I am thrilled to share my take on Baked Parsnip Chips. Imagine a rainy afternoon spent in the kitchen, the smell of something crisp and delicious wafting through the air. I had a few parsnips resting in my pantry, and on a whim, I decided to turn them into something delightful. With just a few ingredients, I created a snack that’s not only healthy but incredibly satisfying. The idea of taking something so ordinary and transforming it into a crispy treat excited me. I love serving these chips at gatherings or simply enjoying them while binge-watching my favorite series. They’re a hit every time!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Oven, Peeler

The Magic of This Baked Parsnip Chips

1. Simple Ingredients

The beauty of Baked Parsnip Chips lies in its simplicity. With just parsnips, olive oil, and sea salt, you can make a delicious snack that highlights the natural sweetness of the parsnip. I love that you don’t need to add any complex seasonings or ingredients; the taste is perfect as is.

2. Healthier Alternative

These chips are a fantastic alternative to traditional potato chips. They’re lower in calories and fat, making them a guilt-free choice for snack time. I feel great knowing I’m munching on something that’s not just tasty but also good for me.

3. Versatile Snack

Baked Parsnip Chips can be paired with various dips or served solo. I often enjoy them with a homemade hummus or a tangy yogurt dip. Their subtle sweetness complements savory flavors perfectly, and you can experiment with different toppings or seasonings to suit your taste.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy night in or a big party, Baked Parsnip Chips fit right in. They’re easy to make in large batches and are sure to impress guests. I often bring them to potlucks or serve them as appetizers, and they’re always a favorite!

5. Kid-Friendly Snack

What I love most about this recipe is how kid-friendly it is. My kids adore helping me slice the parsnips and sprinkle on the salt. It’s a fun activity that encourages them to be involved in the kitchen, and they’re more likely to eat a healthy snack when they’ve had a hand in making it!

Baked Parsnip Chips Shopping List

When making Baked Parsnip Chips, the right ingredients play a crucial role in achieving the perfect crunch. Each component complements the others beautifully, resulting in a snack that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. The key players here are the humble parsnip, which provides a sweet, earthy base, olive oil for the crispiness, and sea salt to enhance the flavors.

1 large parsnip (no need to peel) – This vegetable has a sweet, nutty flavor and becomes wonderfully crunchy when baked.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and helps the chips crisp up beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt – Enhances the natural flavors and balances the sweetness of the parsnip.

Making Baked Parsnip Chips

Making Baked Parsnip Chips is a straightforward yet rewarding process. You’ll be amazed at how easily these chips come together! Follow these steps to create your own delicious, crispy snack.

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the chips from sticking and ensure they bake evenly.
Using a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife, carefully cut the parsnip into paper-thin slices. The thinner they are, the crispier they will be. If you want larger chips, you can cut them on a diagonal.
Place the sliced parsnips on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re spread out in a single layer without overlapping for even baking.
Drizzle the slices with olive oil. Toss them well to ensure each slice is coated. You can use your hands to rub the oil into the slices, making sure they’re evenly coated.
Sprinkle the tops with sea salt. This will enhance the flavor and give them that perfect savory touch.
Bake the parsnip slices in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as the timing can vary based on thickness.
Once the timer goes off, pull the pan from the oven. Remove any thinner pieces that have already turned brown and crispy. This way, you can ensure all chips are perfectly cooked.
Carefully flip the remaining slices over and return the pan to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This helps them become evenly crispy.
If you notice some slices still need more time, they can bake for another 4 to 5 minutes. Just keep checking to avoid burning.
When the chips are done, let them cool completely on the pan. This is essential for achieving that perfect crunch!
Once cooled, your Baked Parsnip Chips are ready to serve. Enjoy them fresh, or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Things Worth Knowing

Slice Thickness: The key to crispy chips is slice thickness. Aim for very thin, even slices for the best crunch.
Even Coating: Make sure each slice of parsnip is evenly coated with olive oil. This helps ensure they bake properly without burning.
Storage: Store leftover chips in an airtight container, but keep in mind they might lose some crispiness. You can re-crisp them in the oven.
Experiment: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings or spices to customize your Baked Parsnip Chips!

Tips and Tricks about Baked Parsnip Chips

Creating perfect Baked Parsnip Chips can be a fun and rewarding process, and I’ve gathered some tips to help you along the way!

Storage: Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They last for about 5 days, but be aware that they may lose some crispiness.
Freezing: Freezing isn’t recommended for these chips, as they won’t retain their texture once thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh!
Pairing: Serve Baked Parsnip Chips with your favorite dips like hummus or salsa for an explosion of flavor.
Batch Cooking: Feel free to double the recipe! These chips are so good, you might want to make a larger batch for gatherings.
Flavor Variations: Consider adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper to the olive oil before tossing with the parsnip for an extra kick.

Side Dish Ideas for Baked Parsnip Chips

Pairing your Baked Parsnip Chips with the right dishes can elevate your snack game. Here are some ideas:

Fresh Salads: Serve alongside a crisp garden salad for a perfect contrast in textures.
Soups: These chips make a fantastic accompaniment to hearty soups, adding a delightful crunch.
Picnics: Ideal for outdoor gatherings, bring along Baked Parsnip Chips for a healthy snack option.
Game Day: Perfect for game day, serve them with a variety of dips to please a crowd.
Lunchboxes: They make great additions to lunchboxes for both kids and adults, adding a fun twist to the usual snacks.
Seasonal Pairings: In fall, add them to your holiday spread as a unique alternative to traditional chips.

FAQ

To store your Baked Parsnip Chips, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about five days. However, do keep in mind that they may lose some of their crispiness over time. If you want to regain that crunch, you can reheat them in the oven at 350ºF for about five minutes. This method can help bring back that freshly baked texture and flavor, making them enjoyable even after a few days.

Yes, you can make Baked Parsnip Chips in advance! They are great for meal prepping or for having a healthy snack ready for guests. Just prepare the chips according to the recipe and let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness. This makes them an ideal snack for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Absolutely! One of the best things about Baked Parsnip Chips is their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste by adding various seasonings. Try mixing garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper into the olive oil before tossing with the parsnip slices. This will give your chips a unique flavor profile and allow you to enjoy them in different ways. Get creative and have fun experimenting!

For the best results, slice the parsnips as thinly as possible. Aim for paper-thin slices to achieve that perfect crunch when baked. Using a mandolin slicer can help ensure even and consistent thickness, which is crucial for even cooking. If your slices are too thick, they may not crisp up properly, resulting in a chewier texture rather than the desired crunch. So, take your time with the slicing for the best outcome!

Conclusion

The charm of Baked Parsnip Chips lies in their simplicity and deliciousness. They offer a perfect blend of natural sweetness and savory crunch that makes them truly special. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Whether you serve them as a snack or alongside your favorite dishes, these chips are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Baked Parsnip Chips

The ultimate snack for any occasion, Baked Parsnip Chips are crispy, delicious, and incredibly easy to make! These healthy chips highlight the sweet, nutty flavors of parsnips, offering a satisfying crunch that will keep you coming back for more. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, whip these up tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Chef's Knife
Frying Pan
Oven
Peeler

Ingredients

1 large parsnip no need to peel
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the chips from sticking and ensure they bake evenly.
Using a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife, carefully cut the parsnip into paper-thin slices. The thinner they are, the crispier they will be. If you want larger chips, you can cut them on a diagonal.
Place the sliced parsnips on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re spread out in a single layer without overlapping for even baking.
Drizzle the slices with olive oil. Toss them well to ensure each slice is coated. You can use your hands to rub the oil into the slices, making sure they’re evenly coated.
Sprinkle the tops with sea salt. This will enhance the flavor and give them that perfect savory touch.
Bake the parsnip slices in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as the timing can vary based on thickness.
Once the timer goes off, pull the pan from the oven. Remove any thinner pieces that have already turned brown and crispy. This way, you can ensure all chips are perfectly cooked.
Carefully flip the remaining slices over and return the pan to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This helps them become evenly crispy.
If you notice some slices still need more time, they can bake for another 4 to 5 minutes. Just keep checking to avoid burning.
When the chips are done, let them cool completely on the pan. This is essential for achieving that perfect crunch!
Once cooled, your Baked Parsnip Chips are ready to serve. Enjoy them fresh, or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Notes

Tip 1: Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They last for about 5 days, but be aware that they may lose some crispiness.
Tip 2: Freezing isn’t recommended for these chips, as they won’t retain their texture once thawed. It's best to enjoy them fresh!
Tip 3: Serve Baked Parsnip Chips with your favorite dips like hummus or salsa for an explosion of flavor.
Tip 4: Feel free to double the recipe! These chips are so good, you might want to make a larger batch for gatherings.
Tip 5: Consider adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper to the olive oil before tossing with the parsnip for an extra kick.