These Crunchy Ranch Cucumber Chips are super refreshing and packed with flavor! They’re made with thinly sliced cucumbers coated in zesty ranch seasoning, making every bite crisp and tasty.
Perfect for snacking, you could munch on them while binge-watching your favorite show. Just beware of the crunch noise! 🙃 I love to serve them with dip on the side for a fun twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use firm, fresh cucumbers for the best crunch. If you can’t find large ones, Persian cucumbers are a great choice too! They have a thinner skin and are often sweeter.
Buttermilk: If you’re short on buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to sour, and you’re good to go!
Ranch seasoning: A packet of store-bought ranch seasoning is super convenient. But you can easily mix your own using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and chives with garlic and onion powder for a homemade version.
Olive Oil: If you want a lighter option, you can skip the oil or use a cooking spray. This is helpful if you’re trying to keep the recipe low-calorie!
What’s the Best Way to Slice Cucumbers Thinly?
Slicing cucumbers properly is key for achieving that perfect crunch in your chips. Using a mandoline slicer makes this super easy, but if you don’t have one, a sharp knife will work just fine.
- Cut off the ends of the cucumber first.
- Hold the cucumber vertically and slice it into rounds approximately 1/8 inch thick. Thin slices help them crisp up nicely when cooking.
Try to keep the slices even in thickness for more consistent cooking. This can make all the difference in ensuring some aren’t too soggy while others are overbaked!
Crunchy Ranch Cucumber Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Cucumber and Marinade:
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or homemade ranch blend)
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Baking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray (if baking)
Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh chopped dill or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1.5 to 2 hours for baking (or drying, if you choose that method). You’ll enjoy a delicious, crunchy snack with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 225°F (110°C) if you’re planning to bake the cucumber chips. If you have a dehydrator or an air fryer, you can use those instead for a different method!
2. Slice the Cucumbers:
Wash and dry your cucumbers really well. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the cucumbers very thinly into rounds—about 1/8 inch thick. This will help them crisp up perfectly!
3. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the buttermilk, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is going to kick up the flavor!
4. Coat the Cucumber Slices:
Toss the sliced cucumbers gently in the ranch buttermilk mixture until they’re well-coated. For extra flavor, let them marinate for about 5-10 minutes.
5. Arrange for Baking:
If you’re baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cucumber slices in a single layer. Make sure they don’t overlap. Lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil for some added crispiness.
6. Bake Until Crispy:
Bake the cucumber slices for 1.5 to 2 hours. Make sure to flip them halfway through baking so they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden and crisp!
7. Cool Down:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the cucumber chips cool completely. They’ll get even crunchier as they cool down!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, you can garnish your ranch cucumber chips with fresh chopped dill or chives for an extra touch. Then, serve them up right away or store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them crispy.
Enjoy these crunchy, tangy ranch cucumber chips as a refreshing snack or a crunchy addition to salads! Happy snacking!
Can I Use Different Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavor by using other seasoning blends like taco seasoning, lemon pepper, or Italian seasoning instead of ranch. Just ensure the seasoning is balanced with your buttermilk for the best flavor.
Can I Store Leftover Cucumber Chips?
Yes! Store any leftover cucumber chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best eaten fresh, but you can try reheating them in the oven for a few minutes to restore some crunch if needed.
Can I Make these Cucumber Chips Dairy-Free?
Definitely! Substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk mixed with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tanginess. Just make sure to still use a ranch seasoning that suits your dietary needs.
Can I Cut the Cucumber Chips in Advance?
Yes, you can slice the cucumbers in advance! Just store them in a sealed container with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. However, it’s best to coat and cook them right before eating to maintain their crunch.
