Description
These Healthy Zucchini Tots offer a delicious, low-carb twist on traditional tater tots. Made with shredded zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs, they are baked to golden perfection for a crispy exterior and tender interior. Perfect as a nutritious snack or side dish, these tots are easy to prepare and packed with veggie goodness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded zucchini
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup dry Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Drain the zucchini: After shredding the zucchini, spread it out on a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle salt over it. Let it sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then squeeze out as much water as possible to prevent soggy tots.
- Mix ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, diced onion, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until fully incorporated.
- Prepare muffin tin: Spray a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spoon the zucchini mixture evenly into each muffin cup, pressing down gently to compress the mixture.
- Add crunch topping: Lightly sprinkle a few panko breadcrumbs on top of each filled muffin cup to add extra crunch after baking.
- Bake the tots: Place the muffin tin in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove and cool: Once out of the oven, run a knife around the edges of each tot to loosen them from the pan. Let them cool for a minute before carefully removing them from the muffin tin.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to ensure crispy tots.
- Using a mini muffin tin helps give the tots a uniform size and shape.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and panko with gluten-free varieties.
- These tots can be served warm as a snack or side dish alongside your favorite dips.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
