Easy and Healthy Zucchini Tots Recipe

If you’re searching for a snack or side dish that’s both wholesome and irresistibly tasty, you’ve got to try these Easy and Healthy Zucchini Tots. Packed with fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar, and a crunch from panko breadcrumbs, these tots are a vibrant way to sneak extra veggies into your day without sacrificing flavor or fun. They come out golden and crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, making them a total crowd-pleaser whether you’re serving kids or grown-ups alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but play a crucial role in balancing moisture, flavor, and texture for perfect zucchini tots. Each one brings a little magic to the mix, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying.

• 2 cups shredded zucchini: The star veggie, providing freshness and moisture, just remember to drain it well to keep your tots crisp.
• 1/2 medium onion diced: Adds subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering the dish.
• 1/2 cup dry Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together while giving a gentle herby flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Essential for holding the mixture in shape and adding a rich texture.
• 4 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded: This gives the tots that gooey, flavorful punch you’ll love.
• 3 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs: Sprinkled on top to create an irresistible crunch.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that make all the flavors pop beautifully.

How to Make Easy and Healthy Zucchini Tots

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

After shredding your zucchini, it’s super important to remove as much moisture as possible. To do this, sprinkle the shredded zucchini with salt and let it sit on a clean kitchen towel for about 15 minutes. The salt will draw out the water, which you can then squeeze out by pressing the zucchini firmly. This step keeps your tots from becoming soggy and helps them hold their shape when baked.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a medium bowl, toss together the drained zucchini, diced onion, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, eggs, and shredded cheddar cheese. Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Stir everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to form into shapes without falling apart.

Step 3: Shape and Prepare for Baking

Lightly spray a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spoon the zucchini mixture into each cup, pressing down gently to compact the mixture slightly so it bakes evenly. Top each tot with a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs – this will add an incredible crunch that perfectly contrasts with the soft interior.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Place the muffin pan in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the tots turn a lovely golden brown on top. Once out of the oven, use a knife to loosen the edges immediately. Allow them to cool for just a minute before carefully removing them from the pan. Now you’ve got beautifully baked zucchini tots ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Easy and Healthy Zucchini Tots

Garnishes

Garnishing your Easy and Healthy Zucchini Tots with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives adds a vibrant pop of color and an extra layer of fresh flavor. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of tangy marinara sauce also complements the cheesy, savory notes beautifully, making each bite more exciting.

Side Dishes

These zucchini tots shine as a side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or even a juicy burger. For a lighter meal, pair them with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. They’re fantastic crowd-pleasers at brunch or as snack-time bites alongside a fresh fruit platter.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve your zucchini tots on a skewer with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls for a colorful appetizer. You can also turn them into “tater tot” style sliders by sandwiching them between mini buns with your favorite fillings. Their beautiful golden color and texture make them fun and inviting on any party platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover zucchini tots, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’ve cooled completely before storing to maintain their texture.

Freezing

Easy and Healthy Zucchini Tots freeze wonderfully. Arrange leftovers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month, ready to pop into the oven straight from the freezer whenever a quick snack strikes.

Reheating

For the best texture when reheating zucchini tots, skip the microwave if you can. Instead, bake them in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. This method brings back their crispness and warms the cheesy interior perfectly, just like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

While fresh zucchini is ideal for moisture control and flavor, you can use frozen zucchini if nothing else is available. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out every bit of water before mixing to avoid sogginess in your tots.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoned breadcrumbs?

No worries! You can use plain breadcrumbs and simply add some dried Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to mimic the seasoning mix. This way, you still get that herby flavor boost without any extra shopping trips.

Can I make these tots vegan?

To make these zucchini tots vegan, substitute the eggs with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use dairy-free cheddar cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

Are these zucchini tots good for meal prep?

Absolutely! These Easy and Healthy Zucchini Tots are perfect for meal prep because they keep well in the fridge and freezer. Bake a big batch at the start of the week, then enjoy them as quick snacks or sides whenever you want.

How can I make these zucchini tots crispier?

For extra crispy tots, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible and don’t skip the panko breadcrumb topping. Additionally, giving them a quick broil for the last minute or two of baking can add a lovely extra crunch.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about making and sharing Easy and Healthy Zucchini Tots. They’re simple to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and bring that perfect crunch to your plate alongside comforting cheese and seasoning. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and watch these tots become a new favorite in your home, impressing family and friends alike with their fresh, vibrant flavor and crave-worthy texture.

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