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**Crispy Baked Eggplant Chips with Basil and Parmesan Cheese: A Healthy and Delicious Snack**
In the world of healthy snacks, it can often be challenging to find options that are both nutritious and satisfying. We all love indulgent treats, but we also want to enjoy guilt-free alternatives that nourish our bodies. If you’re searching for a crunchy, savory snack that’s light on calories but big on flavor, then **Crispy Baked Eggplant Chips with Basil and Parmesan Cheese** may be the perfect choice. This recipe transforms eggplant, often overlooked as a vegetable for snacks, into a delicious and nutritious option that can rival even the most popular potato chips.
Not only are these crispy baked eggplant chips packed with bold flavors like basil and parmesan, but they are also baked instead of fried, making them a healthier alternative. In this article, we’ll explore why eggplants make an ideal base for this crispy treat, provide you with a step-by-step guide to making these chips at home, discuss the health benefits, and offer helpful tips for making the perfect batch.
### **Why Choose Eggplant for Chips?**
Eggplant, often referred to as aubergine in many parts of the world, is a versatile and nutrient-rich vegetable. While it’s typically used in savory dishes like stews, stir-fries, and casseroles, eggplant is an excellent base for snacks due to its ability to absorb flavors and provide a satisfying texture.
Here are several reasons why eggplant is the perfect vegetable for making crispy chips:
#### **1. Low in Calories**
Eggplants are very low in calories, making them an ideal choice for a light, guilt-free snack. A cup of eggplant contains only about 35 calories, making it significantly lower in calories compared to many other vegetables used for chips, such as potatoes. This allows you to indulge in a flavorful snack without compromising your calorie count.
#### **2. High in Nutrients**
Eggplants are loaded with important nutrients, including dietary fiber, vitamins (especially B vitamins like B6), and minerals (like manganese and potassium). They also contain antioxidants like anthocyanins, which give eggplants their deep purple color and help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
#### **3. Naturally Absorbs Flavors**
Eggplant has a spongy texture that allows it to absorb oils and seasonings well. This makes it an ideal vegetable for marinating or coating in delicious seasonings like basil, garlic, and parmesan. When baked, eggplant slices hold their shape while becoming crispy on the outside, creating the perfect texture for chips.
#### **4. Vegan and Gluten-Free**
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, eggplant chips are naturally vegan and gluten-free. If you’re looking for a snack that fits within these lifestyles, this recipe is a great option.
#### **5. Rich in Antioxidants**
As mentioned, eggplant contains antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help to neutralize free radicals in the body and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. By turning this vegetable into chips, you can enjoy a snack that not only satisfies your craving but also contributes to your overall health.
### **How to Make Crispy Baked Eggplant Chips with Basil and Parmesan Cheese**
Now that we’ve established why eggplant is an excellent choice for this recipe, let’s get into the details of how to make **Crispy Baked Eggplant Chips with Basil and Parmesan Cheese**. This recipe is straightforward, easy to make, and requires minimal ingredients, which means you can prepare it in a flash and enjoy a healthy snack that rivals any store-bought chips.
#### **Ingredients:**
– 1 large eggplant
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs (for egg wash)
– Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing the baking sheet)
#### **Optional Garnishes:**
– Extra fresh basil for garnish
– A sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese for a more intense flavor
– Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
– A squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty finish
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