Every item on this page was chosen by a Shondaland editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
9 Crunchy Snacks to Replace Basic Potato Chips
For your next summertime nosh, try these tasty, health-conscious choices inspired by traditional crisps.
The way we think about food is important. While some snacks may be considered less healthy if they are consumed regularly or in large servings, they don’t have to be deemed guilty if they are indeed a pleasure. Some snacks, however, could be considered double the pleasure because they are not only tasty, but they are also good for your well-being.
In recent years, conscientious snack makers have released a wide array of intentionally made bites that are better for you than those basic bags of potato chips and pretzels. Whether taking these alternatives poolside, parading to the park for a picnic, or simply munching away at home, enjoy these veggie-centric provisions for a uniquely satisfying — and nutritious — treat.
Why decide between popcorn and chips when you can have both from one bag? Popcorners' never-fried corn snacks are light as a feather yet feature a satisfying snap with every bite. Made with sunflower oil, these air-popped chips offer that fluffy popcorn sensation without the annoying kernels.
Harvest Snaps' gluten-free green pea bites are packed with protein. They’re also easy on the salt. With 50 percent less sodium than potato chips and full of fiber, they are made from handpicked, low-calorie peas baked to perfection. They come in a handful of fun flavors, including wasabi ranch, tomato basil, parmesan roasted garlic, and more.
Chickpeas have become a creative and prominent pizza crust alternative. Now, it’s time for them to shine in chip form. The popular protein-packed legume takes a new form as Orchard Valley Harvest's delectably clever sour cream and chive chips. Made with real garbanzo beans, these crisps are ready for that summertime party or beach outing.
Beets, the purple-blue superfood, are still teeming with vitamins and minerals in snack form. Vegan Rob's nostalgically puffy snacks are kosher, cholesterol-free, and have less than one gram of sugar. Whether you dip them in guacamole or go bare beet, these vegan puffs are simply unbeatable.
Got a sweet tooth? Made with avocado oil, coconut sugar, and cassava flour, Siete's churro-style cinnamon chips are a healthier option when it comes to sugar cravings. Eat the gluten-free and paleo dessert crisps straight from the bag, or dip them in a warm cup of hot chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous.
For fans of anything kettle cooked, look no further than Thrive Market’s sweet potato chips, which boast an addictive taste thanks to a striking blend of seasonings. Ethically sourced with a dash of coconut oil for flavor and optimal crunch, these health-friendly chips are high in fiber and antioxidants.
Peeled, sliced, crisped, and salted, cassava chips deliver a yummy crunch. Made from cassava, a root vegetable native to South America known to boost immunity and regulate digestion, Artisan Tropic's paleo-friendly morsels are simultaneously thin, crispy, and airy.
Craving crunchiness? Terra chips featuring the root vegetable taro are a surprisingly delicious delight. Designed by nature with striking purple and brown lines, they’re an unexpected take on the typical potato chip with the digestive benefits of real veggies — sans the preservatives and artificial flavors. Fair warning: You might have trouble putting the bag down.
With no added sugar, Nadi's fiber-filled rounds have one ingredient only: apples. The thin, incredibly crispy chips were crafted using a method inspired by an old-school Georgian technique, which preserved fresh fruit to ensure the nutrients and flavors remained intact. The uber-crunchy chips come in Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, and Ida Red varieties.
—
Mia Brabham is a staff writer at Shondaland. You can find her on Twitter @hotmessmia.
Watch Next
How to Cook with Intention This Cancer Season
Meet ‘The Flaky Biscuit’ Podcast Host Bryan Ford
An African Safari Changed My View of the World
Cool New Ways to Camp
