These Zucchini Tots are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional tater tots. Packed with shredded zucchini, cheddar cheese, and a touch of onion, they make a perfect snack or side dish. Quick to prepare and baked to golden perfection, they’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings:
- Makes 24 tots
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1/3 cup (45g) small diced onion
- 1/4 cup (30g) finely ground breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup (40g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Shred the zucchini using the large hole on the side of a box grater.
- Transfer the shredded zucchini to a clean kitchen towel or strainer and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to prevent the tots from becoming too wet.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the strained zucchini, diced onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Fill the Muffin Pan:
- Divide the mixture evenly into the 24 mini muffin cups.
- Bake the Tots:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the tots cool for 10 minutes in the pan before removing.
- Serve:
- Serve the zucchini tots with ketchup or ranch for dipping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these zucchini tots as a snack or side dish with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Pair with ketchup, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli.
- Great as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Enjoy as a light meal with a side salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the shredded zucchini to prevent soggy tots.
- Adjust the size of the tots to your preference; baking time may vary slightly.
- Use a mini ice cream scoop to portion the mixture evenly.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini: High in vitamins A and C, and provides dietary fiber.
- Cheddar Cheese: Source of calcium and protein.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese option.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 35
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the tots in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare.
- A healthy alternative to traditional tater tots.
- Perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Versatile and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Conclusion: These Zucchini Tots are a tasty and nutritious addition to any meal. With their crispy exterior and flavorful interior, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious tots with your family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or Parmesan.
- Can I make these tots without a muffin pan?
- Yes, you can shape the tots by hand and place them on a greased baking sheet.
- How do I store leftover tots?
- Store leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze the zucchini tots?
- Yes, freeze the tots in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- How do I reheat frozen tots?
- Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
- Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
- Yes, you can add finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to the mixture.
- Are these tots gluten-free?
- To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
- You can use crushed cornflakes, oats, or almond flour as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
- Can I make these tots vegan?
- Yes, replace the eggs with a flax or chia egg and use a vegan cheese substitute.