Zucchini Tots Recipe

Ingredients

For Zucchini Tots:

The ingredients for making zucchini tots are relatively simple to obtain and prepare, allowing you to create a delicious side dish or snack that is both healthy and flavorful.

To start, you will need 2 medium-sized zucchinis as the base ingredient for your tots. It’s essential to choose zucchinis that are free from any visible signs of spoilage or damage, ensuring they are fresh and suitable for use in this recipe.

You’ll also require some cheese, either cheddar or mozzarella, grated to add flavor and help hold the tots together. The amount needed will depend on your personal preference and how much you want the cheese flavor to dominate.

Some breadcrumbs are necessary for adding a crunchy texture to the outside of the tots while keeping them tender within. Choose plain breadcrumbs or whole wheat, whichever suits your dietary requirements best.

An egg is also needed as a binder in this recipe. The egg will help tie all the ingredients together and contribute to the overall structure of the tots. Make sure it’s room temperature before using for better results.

Olive oil serves multiple purposes, acting as both a binding agent and a flavor enhancer. You can use other oils like vegetable or canola if you don’t have olive oil available but note that they may affect the taste slightly.

Garlic powder is optional in this recipe, adding an extra layer of flavor to the tots, especially for those who enjoy a savory taste. However, feel free to omit it if you’re not a fan or if you want a simpler taste.

Salt and pepper are the seasonings that bring out all the flavors in your zucchini tots. Add them according to your personal preference for a balanced taste experience.

• 1 large zucchini, grated

The **Ingredients** for this delicious recipe are quite simple and straightforward, making it easy to prepare even for a novice cook.

We will need:

1.

One large _Zucchini_, which is the star of our dish. It’s essential to choose a fresh and firm zucchini for the best results.

2.

About ¼ cup of grated _Parmesan Cheese_ – you can also use other types of cheese like cheddar or mozzarella if you prefer.

3.

One egg, lightly beaten in a bowl – make sure to remove any lumps from the beaten egg before using it.

4.

About ½ cup of _All-purpose Flour_ – you can use whole wheat flour as well for a slightly nuttier flavor.

5.

Some finely chopped fresh _Parsley_ for garnish – this adds an extra touch of freshness and color to your dish.

6.

Seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder as needed to taste.

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

The success of Zucchini Tots recipe heavily relies on the quality and freshness of its key ingredients. One crucial component is breadcrumbs, which serve as a binding agent to hold the tots together while providing a crunchy texture.

In this context, **1/4 cup of breadcrumbs** is an essential ingredient that adds flavor and helps in shaping the tots. It’s advisable to use plain white bread for making breadcrumbs to ensure they don’t add any overpowering flavors to the dish.

When selecting breadcrumbs for your Zucchini Tots recipe, it’s crucial to note the importance of using fresh **dry** ingredients. Using stale or damp breadcrumbs can lead to a unpleasant texture and affect the overall taste of the tots.

The type of breadcrumb used also plays a significant role in determining the flavor profile of the dish. Some popular options include Panko, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread crumbs. However, for Zucchini Tots recipe, plain white breadcrumbs work best to provide an authentic taste.

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Parmesan cheese is a staple ingredient in many Italian dishes, including this Zucchini Tots Recipe. The 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese called for in the recipe serves several purposes. Firstly, it adds a salty, umami flavor to the tots that complements the sweetness of the zucchini. Secondly, the cheese helps to enhance the texture of the tots, making them crisper on the outside and fluffier on the inside.

When shopping for Parmesan cheese, it’s essential to look for a high-quality, aged cheese with a granular texture. Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred over pre-shredded or powdered cheese, as it has a more vibrant flavor and better texture. The grated form of Parmesan also allows it to distribute evenly throughout the tots, ensuring that each bite is packed with cheesy goodness.

The Parmesan cheese should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness. Before using it in the recipe, give the cheese a good stir and sprinkle it over the zucchini mixture. Be sure to evenly distribute the cheese to avoid any clumps or uneven flavor distribution.

• 1 egg

An egg serves as a crucial ingredient in various recipes, including the Zucchini Tots recipe.

In its simplest form, an egg consists primarily of about 70% water and approximately 30% solids.

The solid portion includes proteins such as ovotransferrin, ovalbumin, ovomucoid, and ovoglobulin, which contribute to the nutritional value and functional properties of eggs in cooking.

Eggs are also rich in essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, iron, and calcium, although their exact mineral content can vary depending on factors such as the hen’s diet and geographical location.

Additionally, eggs contain various vitamins including vitamin A, B12, E, K, and D, with the specific distribution of these vitamins varying across egg types due to factors like feed composition and laying conditions.

The moisture content in an egg is significant for its texture and consistency when used in recipes. The moisture level affects how easily it mixes with other ingredients and its final appearance after cooking.

When used as a binder, the gelatinous properties of eggs help hold various components together, giving them structure and form. In baked goods and many sauces, this ability is exploited to achieve the desired texture.

In recipes like Zucchini Tots, an egg contributes to both taste and texture, adding richness without overpowering other flavors. It plays a pivotal role in enhancing the dish’s overall palatability while maintaining its balance.

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

The recipe for making delicious Zucchini Tots requires a specific set of ingredients, which are essential to achieving the perfect taste and texture.

Here’s a breakdown of one of the key ingredients in this recipe:

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Salt is used in cooking for several reasons. It enhances flavors, balances sweetness and acidity, and adds depth to dishes.

In the context of Zucchini Tots, a small amount of salt helps to bring out the natural flavors of the zucchinis while also adding a touch of savory taste to each tot.

It’s worth noting that the amount of salt used in this recipe is minimal, and you can always adjust it according to your personal preference or dietary needs.

Incorporating salt into the Zucchini Tots is crucial because it contributes to the overall flavor profile, making them more enjoyable and appetizing.

• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

The use of black pepper as an ingredient in cooking is a common practice due to its ability to add depth and a subtle kick to various dishes.

In the context of the Zucchini Tots Recipe, the addition of 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper serves a specific purpose. It helps to balance out the natural sweetness of the zucchinis while enhancing their flavor profile.

The reason why black pepper is often used in small quantities, such as 1/8 teaspoon, is that its potency can quickly overpower other flavors if added excessively.

Black pepper contains a compound called piperine, which has been found to have several potential health benefits when consumed in moderate amounts. These benefits include improved digestion and enhanced nutrient absorption.

However, it’s worth noting that black pepper is not essential for the preparation of Zucchini Tots, as its primary function is to add flavor rather than texture or structure to the dish.

The choice of using a small quantity of black pepper in this recipe likely stems from the desire to maintain the natural flavor and nutritional profile of the zucchinis while still introducing an element of depth and complexity to the finished product.

Chef Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Mixture

To begin with, the preparation of the zucchini mixture is a crucial step in creating these delicious **Zucchini Tots**.

Start by carefully selecting 2 large _zucchinis_ and washing them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.

Cut both _zucchinis_ in half lengthwise, making sure they are evenly sized for even cooking.

Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds from each _zucchini_ half, taking care not to tear the surrounding flesh.

Place the zucchini halves on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and let them sit for about 5-7 minutes to allow excess moisture to be drawn out. This step is important to prevent the tots from becoming soggy during cooking.

After the allotted time, carefully pat the zucchinis dry with additional paper towels to remove any remaining excess moisture.

Cut each _zucchini_ half into 1-inch cubes, taking care to maintain uniform size for even cooking. You should end up with around 8-10 _zucchini_ cubes from one large _zucchini_.

• In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini and egg. Mix well.

To prepare the Zucchini Tots, follow these step-by-step instructions:

First, **grate** 2 large zucchinis using a food grater. Make sure to remove excess moisture from the grated zucchini by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeezing out as much liquid as possible.

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 large egg until well beaten. Add the squeezed-out grated zucchini to the bowl and mix well with the egg until you get a smooth, consistent mixture.

Add the following ingredients to the bowl:

1. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2. 1/2 teaspoon salt
3. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4. 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
5. 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese (optional)

Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but not too wet.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the mixture to firm up.

When you’re ready to cook the Zucchini Tots, heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C).

Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop small balls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each tot.

Fry the Zucchini Tots for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Drain them on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

• Add breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Mix until combined.

Add a delightful crunch and rich flavor to your Zucchini Tots by incorporating breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese into the mix.

To begin, add 1/2 cup of fresh breadcrumbs to the bowl containing the grated zucchini, egg, salt, and pepper mixture.

Mix the breadcrumbs evenly with the other ingredients using a fork or whisk until they are well combined. The crumbs should be evenly distributed throughout the zucchini mixture.

Next, add 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl.

Mix the Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb-zucchini mixture until it is fully incorporated and there are no lumps or uneven areas.

The combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese will enhance the texture and flavor of your Zucchini Tots, making them a satisfying side dish or snack.

• Season with salt and pepper.

To season with salt and pepper, you’ll want to follow these steps:

1. Have the salt and pepper shakers ready on your workspace.

2. Hold the zucchini tots in one hand, making sure they are evenly spaced and not overcrowded.

3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over each zucchini tot, using a gentle tossing motion to distribute it evenly.

4. Next, sprinkle a small amount of pepper over each tot, again using the same gentle tossing motion.

5. Check that each tot has an even coating of seasoning by gently picking one up and looking at its underside.

6. If needed, adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt or pepper as required.

It’s also worth noting that you can use a variety of seasonings in place of salt and pepper, such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano.

In terms of amounts, a general rule of thumb is to start with a small amount (about 1/4 teaspoon per tot) and adjust to taste.

Shaping & Baking Zucchini Tots

Step 2: Shape into tots:

Carefully select a zucchini from the bowl of grated zucchini and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a cheesecloth or a clean dish towel.

Place the squeezed zucchini onto a flat surface, such as a wooden cutting board or a silicone mat.

Using your hands or a spoon, start breaking down the zucchini into small pieces, about 1-2 inches in size. Be gentle but firm to avoid compacting the mixture too much.

Mound each piece of zucchini into a small tot shape, using the heel of your hand to gently press and shape it. The key is to create a rough, irregular shape that will hold its form when baked.

Continue this process with the remaining grated zucchini, working in batches if necessary to prevent the mixture from becoming too compacted.

To get the tots just right, aim for a rough estimate of about 1-inch wide and 2-inch long. Keep in mind that some will be slightly larger or smaller than others, but this is normal.

• Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to form zucchini mixture into small balls, about 1inch in diameter.

To shape and bake zucchini tots, start by preparing the zucchini mixture according to your recipe. Typically, this involves grating or shredding zucchinis and mixing them with other ingredients such as cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.

Next, use a spoon or small cookie scoop to form the zucchini mixture into small balls. Aim for a size of about 1 inch in diameter, which will yield bite-sized tots that are easy to cook and fun to eat.

To achieve uniform shapes, make sure to fill your spoon or cookie scoop with an equal amount of mixture each time you shape a tot. This will help ensure that all of your tots bake evenly and at the same rate.

Once you have shaped all of your zucchini tots, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your baking sheet and the number of tots you are making.

Make sure to leave some space between each tot so that they have room to cook evenly and don’t steam instead of bake. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 1 inch of space between each tot.

After your zucchini tots are arranged on the baking sheet, drizzle them with a little bit of oil or cooking spray to help prevent them from sticking together during cooking.

Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe, which is usually around 400°F (200°C). Place the baking sheet with the zucchini tots in the oven and bake for the recommended amount of time, which is typically around 15-20 minutes.

While the tots are baking, you can prepare any additional toppings or sauces that you want to serve with them. Some popular options include marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Once the zucchini tots have finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a delicious flavor that’s sure to please both kids and adults!

• Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.

To achieve the desired shape for your zucchini tots, you’ll want to start by flattening each ball slightly into a disk shape.

This process involves taking each ball and gently pressing it down with your fingers or the back of a spatula to create a flat surface.

The goal is to create a relatively even thickness for each tot, which will help them cook evenly in the oven.

As you press down on the dough, try to maintain an even pressure across the entire surface to avoid creating uneven edges or indentations.

If you find that your zucchini tots are still too round and not flattening enough, you can also use a gentle rolling motion with the heel of your hand or the back of a spatula to help shape them into disks.

It’s essential to be gentle when shaping your zucchini tots, as you don’t want to apply too much pressure and end up compacting the mixture too much.

This can cause the tots to become dense and heavy, rather than light and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Step 3: Bake until golden brown:

To ensure that your zucchini tots are cooked through and have a crispy exterior, it’s essential to bake them until they’re golden brown. This step may take around 15-20 minutes in total, depending on the size of your tots and the temperature of your oven.

Preheat your oven to its standard baking temperature, usually around 400°F (200°C). Make sure that your oven rack is positioned in the middle or upper third of the oven, as this will help your zucchini tots cook evenly without burning on the bottom.

Place the zucchini tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a silicone mat. You can leave some space between each tot to ensure even cooking and prevent them from steaming instead of browning.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, then carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and flip the tots over. This step is crucial in achieving an even golden brown color on both sides of the zucchini tots.

Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5-8 minutes, or until your zucchini tots are golden brown and firm to the touch. You can check if they’re done by inserting a toothpick into one of the tots – if it slides in easily, they’re cooked through.

Once your zucchini tots are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve immediately while warm, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

Remember that timing may vary depending on your specific zucchini tots size and thickness. Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they don’t overcook or burn.

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

To begin shaping and baking zucchini tots, it’s essential to start with a batch of grated zucchini. Choose firm, medium-sized zucchinis for this recipe.

Next, take about 3 cups of grated zucchini and transfer them to a large bowl or container lined with paper towels. This step is crucial in removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing some of the moisture to evaporate.

After letting the zucchini sit, use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to wring out as much water as possible from the grated zucchini. This step is important in preventing the tots from becoming soggy during baking.

In another bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. The addition of flour will help bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the tots.

Combine the grated zucchini with the flour mixture and stir until they’re just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense and heavy tots.

Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, shape the zucchini mixture into oval shapes, similar to tater tots. You should end up with around 20-25 tots, depending on their size.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shaped tots in a single layer, leaving about 1 inch of space between each tot. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from sticking together during baking.

Now, let’s move on to the preheating of the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for cooking the tots evenly and at the right temperature. Preheating the oven ahead of time ensures that it reaches the desired temperature quickly.

Place the baking sheet with the zucchini tots in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. Keep an eye on them after 15 minutes to ensure they don’t overcook.

Once cooked, remove the tots from the oven and let them cool slightly on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess moisture. Serve the zucchini tots hot with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is!

• Place tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

To shape and bake zucchini tots, follow these detailed steps:

The first step in creating zucchini tots is to choose a suitable zucchini. Opt for small to medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and have a glossy appearance. This will ensure they yield the right amount of moisture and flavor.

Next, wash the zucchinis thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently scrub them with your hands to clean off any stubborn impurities.

Now it’s time to dry the zucchinis. Pat them dry using a paper towel or clean cloth to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial in preventing the tots from becoming soggy during baking.

Mound a small amount of grated cheese, chopped herbs, and spices onto a clean surface. You can use a combination of mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to give your tots a flavorful kick.

Grate the zucchinis into a large bowl using a box grater or food processor. Be sure to grate them evenly to achieve the right consistency.

Incorporate the grated cheese, herbs, and spices into the grated zucchini, mixing well until everything is fully incorporated.

Use your hands to shape the mixture into small tots. You can either use a cookie scoop or form them by hand to create uniform shapes.

Place the tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about an inch of space between each one to allow for even cooking and browning.

Bake the zucchini tots in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes. You can also broil them for an extra crispy exterior by increasing the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) during the last few minutes of cooking.

Remove the tots from the oven and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish to complement any meal. Enjoy!

• Drizzle with olive oil and gently toss to coat evenly.

The process of shaping zucchini tots begins with preparing the grated zucchini. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid from the grated zucchini as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step is crucial in preventing a soggy final product.

Transfer the drained zucchini to a bowl and add your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or any other herbs and spices you like. Mix well until the zucchini is evenly coated with the seasonings.

Now it’s time to shape the zucchini mixture into tots. You can either use a cookie scoop or your hands to portion out the mixture. If using a scoop, make sure to pack the mixture firmly so that the tots hold their shape. If using your hands, simply take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a round or oval tot.

Place the shaped zucchini tots onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your baking sheet.

Drizzle the tops of the zucchini tots with olive oil and gently toss them to coat evenly. This will help prevent sticking during the baking process and add flavor to the final product.

Bake the zucchini tots in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside.

• Bake for 2025 minutes or until zucchini tots are golden brown and crispy.

To shape and bake zucchini tots, start by grating or finely chopping 2-3 medium-sized zucchinis using a box grater or food processor with a shredding attachment.

Transfer the grated zucchini to a clean dish towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial in removing excess moisture from the zucchini, which can make it difficult for the tots to hold their shape.

Once you have removed most of the liquid, add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella), 1 egg, and a pinch of salt to the grated zucchini. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Add any desired seasonings or herbs to the mixture at this point, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried parsley.

Using your hands, shape the zucchini mixture into small tots, about 1 inch in length and 1/2 inch in width. You can make them all uniform shapes or mix it up for a more rustic look.

Place the zucchini tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your baking sheet.

Drizzle the tops with a little bit of olive oil and sprinkle with additional shredded cheese if desired. This will help add extra flavor and crispiness to the tots.

Bake for 2025 minutes or until zucchini tots are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through cooking time.

Keep an eye on the tots while they’re baking as the exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your tots and your oven’s temperature. They should be firm to the touch and lightly browned when done.

If you prefer a crisper exterior, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes or until golden brown.