Can I make Zucchini Tots ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Zucchini Tots ahead of time. Shape the mixture into tots and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to one day before baking. You can also bake them in advance and reheat them in the oven or air fryer to bring back their crispy texture.

How do I keep Zucchini Tots from becoming soggy?

The most important step is removing excess moisture from the zucchini. After shredding the zucchini, squeeze it thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel until most of the liquid is removed. Too much moisture can prevent the tots from becoming crispy and may make the mixture difficult to shape.

Can I cook Zucchini Tots in an air fryer?

Yes, an air fryer works very well for making crispy Zucchini Tots. Place the prepared tots in a single layer and cook until golden and firm, turning them halfway through. Air frying creates a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Easy Crispy Zucchini Tots Recipe for a Healthy Snack

Name: Zucchini Tots
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini: grated and squeezed dry to remove excess moisture; 1 large egg: helps bind the zucchini mixture together; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: adds creamy, cheesy flavor; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: creates a crispy texture and absorbs moisture; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: adds savory herb flavor; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: enhances the overall taste; 1/2 teaspoon salt: balances the flavors; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: adds mild spice and depth; Ketchup or dipping sauce: served on the side for extra flavor

Description

These crispy Zucchini Tots are a healthy and delicious snack made with fresh zucchini, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and simple seasonings. They are baked until golden and crispy, making them a lighter alternative to traditional potato tots and a family-friendly way to enjoy more vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium zucchini: grated and squeezed dry to remove excess moisture
1 large egg: helps bind the zucchini mixture together
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: adds creamy, cheesy flavor
1 cup panko breadcrumbs: creates a crispy texture and absorbs moisture
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: adds savory herb flavor
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: enhances the overall taste
1/2 teaspoon salt: balances the flavors
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: adds mild spice and depth
Ketchup or dipping sauce: served on the side for extra flavor

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible.
Add the drained zucchini to a bowl with egg, cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small oval tots using about one tablespoon of mixture for each tot.
Arrange the zucchini tots on the prepared baking sheet with space between each piece.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the tots are golden brown and crispy.
Allow the zucchini tots to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent soggy tots.
For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tots with cooking oil before baking.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Zucchini Tots can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Reheat leftovers in an oven, toaster oven, or air fryer to restore crispiness.
The prepared tots can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 zucchini tots
Calories: 120
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg