If you’re tired of the same old plain oyster crackers, give them a makeover with this ranch-flavored variation!
Oyster crackers get passed up in the snack world. These tiny crackers typically get thrown into all kinds of thick soups. But my pantry stash of oyster crackers usually gets eaten by the handful, straight out of the box, by yours truly. Truth be told, they’re as satisfying as potato chips to me. Potato chips come in all kinds of flavors, so why shouldn’t oyster crackers?
With that thought in mind, I came across the idea of ranch-flavored oyster crackers. Since they’re very tiny, you can’t easily dip them into anything (like ranch), so the flavor must be on the cracker itself. This recipe uses a homemade ranch flavoring mixture to coat the crackers, and the mixture sticks due to the addition of avocado oil. After that, they’re baked to seal in the ranch goodness and to give the crackers a final crisp. Genius!
The resulting crackers are crunchy, full of homemade ranch flavor, and seriously addictive. While you can still put a handful of these ranch oyster crackers into your bowl of oyster stew or clam chowder, you may not have any crackers left by the time the soup is ready.
Are Ranch Oyster Crackers Healthy?
Due to its high calorie count and high sodium level, this snack is best enjoyed in moderation. That being said, this recipe’s homemade ranch seasoning is far healthier (and has far less sodium) than commercially-available ranch seasoning packets. It also uses healthy avocado oil, which is rich in vitamins A, D, and E, with oleic acids that support heart health. Nutritional yeast is a source of vitamin B12 (if enriched), protein, and even some fiber. So, if you’re going to pick a cracker to snack on, this one is on the healthier side! Note that if you’re following a vegan diet, simply make sure the oyster crackers you choose are vegan, as some are not. The rest of this recipe is vegan-friendly!
Do Oyster Crackers Contain Oysters?
Despite the misleading name, oyster crackers do not contain oysters. Oyster crackers are named for what they were served alongside back in 19th-century New England: oyster stew. They add an amazing crunch to that dish and are now commonly served with chili, clam chowder, and other thick soups and stews. So, no worries if you don’t eat seafood; these crackers are safe for your consumption!
How To Make Ahead And Store
Let the crackers cool completely. Put them in an airtight container or a resealable bag. Store them in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve these oyster crackers like I serve them: alone, by the handful! If you’d rather have a more classic presentation, these go well in pretty much any hearty soup, as long as you like a bit of ranch flavoring! I’m talking Cowboy Chili, New England Clam Chowder, Crab Soup, and any other soup that needs a bit of a crunch.
For something a little healthier, I’ve used these ranch oyster crackers as crouton-like crunchies on many salads. Try them on top of a Healthy Chicken Cobb Salad, a Corn Salad, or a Spinach Salad.
Ingredients
- 5 cups oyster crackers
- 1/3 cup avocado oil
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F.
- Place oyster crackers in a bowl or resealable bag.
- Add avocado oil, herbs and spices, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast. Gently toss to coat.
- Place crackers on a baking tray in a single layer and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Leave a Comment