Crispy Zucchini Tots: A Healthy Family Snack Sensation

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These homemade zucchini tots are the perfect way to sneak vegetables into a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack that both kids and adults will love!

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini
  • 1/3 cup small diced onion
  • 1/4 cup fine breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Zucchini:
    • Wash zucchini thoroughly
    • Grate zucchini using a box grater
    • Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel
    • Squeeze out excess moisture completely
  2. Mix Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine:
      • Grated zucchini
      • Diced onion
      • Breadcrumbs
      • Eggs
      • Shredded cheddar cheese
      • Salt
      • Black pepper
    • Mix until well combined
  3. Prepare for Baking:
    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
    • Lightly spray with cooking spray
  4. Form Tots:
    • Using clean hands, form mixture into small tot-shaped pieces
    • Place tots on prepared baking sheet
    • Leave space between each tot
  5. Bake:
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes
    • Flip halfway through cooking
    • Tots should be golden brown and crispy

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (4-5 tots):

  • Calories: 120-150
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Servings: 3-4

Health Benefits

  • Zucchini: Low in calories, high in nutrients
  • Eggs: Excellent protein source
  • Cheese: Provides calcium and protein
  • Baked, not fried for healthier option

Cooking Tips

  • Removing moisture from zucchini is crucial for crispy tots
  • Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out liquid
  • Don’t overwork the mixture to keep tots light
  • Serve immediately for maximum crispiness

Variations and Substitutions

  • Cheese Options: Parmesan, mozzarella, or dairy-free cheese
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • Add-Ins: Fresh herbs, garlic powder, or paprika
  • Dipping Sauces: Ranch, marinara, or yogurt-based dips

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I air fry these? Yes, air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes

Q2: How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in airtight container for 2-3 days

Q3: Can I freeze zucchini tots? Freeze on baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bag

Q4: Are these kid-friendly? Perfect for picky eaters who don’t like vegetables

Q5: Can I make these vegan? Use flax eggs and nutritional yeast

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
  • Reheat in oven to maintain crispiness
  • Best consumed fresh
  • Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking

A delightful way to enjoy vegetables that tastes more like a treat than a healthy snack!