Zucchini Tots Recipe

Zucchini: A versatile vegetable that adds moisture and a mild flavor to the tots.

Breadcrumbs: Helps to bind the mixture and adds a crispy texture.

Parmesan cheese: Provides a rich, savory taste that complements the zucchini.

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the tots together.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor without the moisture of fresh garlic.

Onion powder: Adds a mild onion flavor to the tots.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the tots.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the flavor.

When preparing the zucchini, ensure you squeeze out as much moisture as possible after grating. Excess water can make the tots soggy and prevent them from achieving that desirable golden brown crispiness. Use a clean towel or cheesecloth to wring out the grated zucchini thoroughly.

• zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar texture and moisture content, making it a great alternative.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture.

• parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor profile.

• large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoon water) works as a binder for a vegan option.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic offers a more intense and aromatic flavor.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onion: Finely chopped onion provides a fresh and slightly sweet taste.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor along with the saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile.

• Allow the zucchini tots to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled tots in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

• For freezing, arrange the cooled zucchini tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Transfer the frozen tots to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for reference.

• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover zucchini tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy on the outside. This method helps retain their original texture and flavor.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the zucchini tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method will give you a crispy exterior similar to when they were freshly baked.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the zucchini tots in the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have a nice crispy crust. This method is quick and adds a bit of extra flavor from the oil.

• Microwave Method: Place the zucchini tots on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Note that this method may result in a softer texture compared to the other methods.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the zucchini tots on the toaster oven tray and heat for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy. This method is convenient for small batches and retains a good texture.

• Oven: Used to bake the zucchini tots at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Grater: Essential for grating the zucchini into fine shreds.

• Clean towel: Utilized to squeeze out the excess moisture from the grated zucchini.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine all the ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the zucchini, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

• Baking sheet: A flat sheet to place the formed tots on for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet to prevent the tots from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the tots halfway through the baking process.

• Mixing spoon: Used to mix all the ingredients thoroughly in the mixing bowl.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Grate the zucchini and measure out the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and spices the night before.

Use a food processor: Speed up the grating process by using a food processor instead of a manual grater.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the zucchini mixture to save time.

Batch forming: Form the tots all at once and place them on the baking sheet to streamline the process.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and make cleanup faster.