The swap: Best alternatives to chips

The snacking can get a little out of control sometimes. During the 3:00 p.m. slump towards the end of a work day or while kicking back to watch a movie, it can be hard to make the healthiest of choices. It’s easy to reach for that bad-for-you food even when fully aware that it’s an unhealthy option. Chips are a major culprit for many. The good news is that they are also one of the easiest things to replace. Many substitutes are just as tasty without being loaded with fats and oil. If you find yourself having a chip craving, try one of these options instead:

Popcorn (not buttered) 

It’s great to snack on and can easily satisfy a chip craving. Popcorn gets a bad name because it’s often drenched in butter. When swapping it in instead of chips, ditch the butter and try flavouring it with spices, pepper or garlic powder.

Kale chips

Kale chips are a classic chip swap and they work so well. Kale is a runner’s favourite super food, high in iron and loaded with vitamins, potassium and calcium. Making kale chips is also an excellent way to use up extra leaves of kale that are sitting in the fridge. For a fun recipe on Parmesan kale chips, see here.

Roasted chickpeas 

Chickpeas are full of flavour and healthy for you. These crunchy roasted chickpeas are extra easy to make too! They are more substantial than your regular potato chip. Try these and you’ll never go back.

Zucchini chips 

Curry, chipotle, salt and vinegar and Parmesan! These zucchini chip recipes mimic your favourite chip flavours so you can still feel like you’re enjoying your favourite snack but zucchini is a snack you can feel better about indulging in. Have as many as you want!

Butternut squash chips

It’s coming into fall now and with that comes butternut squash season! Have fun this fall by playing around with fun seasonal recipes. Try out these cheesy butternut squash chips for your next movie night.