These red pepper “cheesy” kale chips have become a staple in our house. They’re crunchy, savory, slightly sweet, and somehow disappear almost as quickly as I can make them. The creamy sauce made from nuts, nutritional yeast, and red bell pepper creates a rich, cheesy flavor without any dairy, making them a favorite for vegans and non-vegans alike.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how flexible it is. I often make a double or triple batch because they store well and make an easy snack for busy days. I’ve even used the same sauce on bok choy and other leafy greens with great results. It’s a fun way to enjoy nutrient-dense vegetables that both adults and kids can get excited about.
Even people who think they don’t like kale have been surprised by these chips. They’re crispy, flavorful, and one of my favorite ways to turn simple ingredients into a snack that disappears almost as quickly as I can make them!
-Brooke Ridgeway, Veggie Fairy in Maryland
Ingredients

- 1 bunch of kale from Seasonal Roots (curly or straight, any variety!)
- 1 red bell pepper from Seasonal Roots (or more)
- 1 cup of soaked raw nuts (I use macadamia nut & cashew or just cashews)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or less) from Seasonal Roots
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- Optional – 1/2 teaspoon cayenne (or to taste)
Instructions

About the Chef

Brooke Ridgeway is a licensed hot air balloon pilot, worldschooling mom, and healthy food enthusiast who believes that some of life’s best moments happen around good food and meaningful connections. As a Seasonal Roots delivery driver, she has the opportunity to connect directly with families who care about where their food comes from and sees firsthand the impact that supporting local farms has on communities throughout the region.
Fresh, locally grown produce inspires much of Brooke’s cooking. She enjoys finding creative ways to make vegetables exciting, approachable, and delicious.
What Brooke loves most about Seasonal Roots, beyond the delicious food, is the connection it creates between local growers and local families. Knowing the story behind the food on her table makes every meal feel more meaningful, while providing confidence that her family is enjoying nutrient-dense, high-quality ingredients. She is grateful to be part of a community that supports local agriculture while making fresh, local food more accessible.
Interested in Joining Seasonal Roots?
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About Seasonal Roots
Since 2011, Seasonal Roots’ online farmers market has connected families in Virginia, Maryland and Washington D.C. with local family farmers who use sustainable, humane practices. Our neighborhood market managers – who believe in living better through scrumptious, healthy eating, being kind to animals, protecting the environment, and spreading joy – home-deliver freshly harvested produce, pastured eggs, grass-fed dairy and meat, plus artisan fare. We empower our members to eat better and live better with more nutritious, flavorful food that’s good for us and good for the planet. More info at seasonalroots.com.