Potato chips are undeniably delicious, but plenty of exciting alternatives are there to consider if you’re looking to switch things up and explore new savory, crunchy snack options.
Whether aiming for healthier choices or to diversify your snack repertoire, these ten crunchy snacks offer a delightful change from traditional potato chips.
1. Veggie Chips
Why Try Them: Veggie chips are a tasty treat and a nutritious alternative to traditional potato chips. They are typically crafted from colorful vegetables like sweet potatoes, beets, and zucchini. These veggies are sliced thinly and baked or air-fried to achieve a satisfying crunch. What sets veggie chips apart is their natural sweetness and unique flavors.
Sweet potato chips offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory, while beet chips provide an earthy richness. Zucchini chips offer a mild flavor that pairs well with various seasonings. Plus, veggie chips are often lower in calories and a source of vitamins and fiber, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious snackers.
2. Kale Chips
Why Try Them: Kale chips have become a trendy and health-conscious snack option. Made from fresh kale leaves, these chips are seasoned with various flavorful ingredients before being baked to crispy perfection. What makes kale chips stand out is their combination of a satisfying crunch and an array of savory seasonings.
You can find them in classic flavors like sea salt for a simple and clean taste or more adventurous options like cheesy or spicy for an extra kick of flavor. Kale chips are crunchy and packed with nutrients, making them a guilt-free snack choice.
3. Popcorn
Why Try It: Popcorn is a classic, versatile snack perfect for satisfying crunch cravings. It’s a whole grain that is naturally low in calories, especially when prepared without excessive butter or oil. The beauty of popcorn lies in its adaptability.
You can customize its flavor with a wide range of seasonings, from the simplicity of sea salt to more adventurous choices like truffle or nutritional yeast for a cheesy twist. Popcorn remains a beloved crunchy favorite whether you enjoy it at the movies, as a late-night snack, or as an accompaniment to game day festivities.
4. Rice Cakes
Why Try Them: Rice cakes are a light, airy snack with a delightful crunch. They are a blank canvas for your taste preferences, allowing you to top them with your favorite spreads, toppings, or seasonings.
You can find rice cakes in various flavors, including savory options like cheddar cheese or caramelized onion, making them a versatile and customizable snack. These crispy discs are excellent for those who enjoy experimenting with different flavor combinations.
5. Pita Chips
Why Try Them: Pita chips are a Mediterranean-inspired snack crafted from toasted or baked pita bread. These chips are perfect for dipping into various delicious spreads, from classic hummus to flavorful tzatziki. What sets pita chips apart is their ideal balance of crunch and thickness.
They are sturdy enough to scoop up generous helpings of dip, yet they maintain a satisfying crispiness. Seasoned with various herbs and spices, pita chips offer a delightful and savory crunch that complements your favorite dips.
6. Seaweed Snacks
Why Try Them: Seaweed snacks introduce a unique and savory crunch to your snacking routine. These thin sheets of roasted seaweed are lightly seasoned with flavors like sesame, wasabi, or teriyaki. Seaweed snacks are popular among those seeking healthier and umami-rich snack options.
They provide an enjoyable combination of crispiness and seaweed’s distinctive oceanic taste, making them a delightful alternative to traditional chips.
7. Roasted Chickpeas
Why Try Them: Roasted chickpeas are a protein-packed, crunchy snack that combines satisfying flavors and textures. Chickpeas are seasoned and then roasted to achieve a satisfying crunch.
These tasty morsels come in various flavors, ranging from spicy for those who enjoy a kick of heat to smoky for a savory and aromatic experience. Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy delight and a source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a wholesome snack choice.
8. Plantain Chips
Why Try Them: Plantain chips offer a delicious departure from traditional potato chips. They are typically crafted from thinly sliced green or ripe plantains, which can be fried or baked to achieve the desired crispness. Mature plantain chips provide a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy both taste profiles.
On the other hand, green plantain chips offer a starchy and hearty crunch that satisfies your savory cravings. Plantain chips are a crunchy treat that showcases the versatility of this tropical fruit.
9. Pretzel Crisps
Why Try Them: Pretzel crisps are a modern twist on traditional pretzels, offering a thinner and crispier version of the beloved snack. These flattened pretzels come in various flavors, including classic sea salt, garlic parmesan, and bold options like buffalo wings. Pretzel crisps are perfect for dipping into your preferred spreads or enjoying themselves.
They provide a satisfying crunch that pairs well with a wide range of flavors, making them a versatile and flavorful choice.
10. Nut Mixes
Why Try Them: Nut mixes offer a delightful and crunchy snack experience that combines the flavors and textures of various nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. These mixes can encompass sweet and savory profiles, catering to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a mix with the natural sweetness of dried fruits or a delicious blend of seasoned nuts, these snacks provide a wholesome and energy-boosting option. Nut mixes are crunchy and nutrient-dense, making them a satisfying and nutritious choice for snacking.
Exploring these crunchy snack alternatives to bare potato chips allows you to enjoy various flavors, textures, and health benefits. Whether you’re in the mood for a wholesome and protein-packed option like roasted chickpeas or a savory delight like pita chips with hummus, these crunchy snacks offer a diverse and delicious array of choices for your snacking pleasure.