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To make cheesy zucchini tots, gather these ingredients: - 2 medium zucchinis, grated - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella for a melty texture) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for crunch or regular for softness) - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a savory depth) - 1 large egg (to bind the mixture) - 2 green onions, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder (for an extra layer of flavor) - 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor) - Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing and added crispiness) You can elevate these tots even more with: - Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh kick - A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat - Smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist - Extra cheese, like goat cheese or feta, for a richer taste These cheesy zucchini tots are not just tasty; they are also nutritious! Here’s a quick overview: - Calories: About 150 per serving - Protein: 7 grams per serving - Carbohydrates: 12 grams per serving - Fiber: 2 grams per serving - Fat: 8 grams per serving This simple recipe balances flavor and health, making it a great snack for everyone. For the full recipe, check back to create these scrumptious bites! Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for a good bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the tots not to stick. Next, take your zucchinis and grate them. You can use a box grater or a food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze it tightly to remove excess water. This step is very important. Removing moisture keeps the tots crispy. In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and egg. Add in the chopped green onions, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well with a spatula or spoon. The mixture should be smooth and even. With damp hands, form small tots about 1-2 inches long. Place them on the baking sheet with space between each. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil for a crispy top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Flip them halfway for even browning. After baking, let them cool a bit before serving. You can find the full recipe for these tasty bites in the earlier section! To keep your zucchini tots crispy, moisture control is key. After grating the zucchinis, use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much water as you can. This step prevents sogginess. For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Bake your tots at a higher temperature, around 400°F (200°C). This will help them brown nicely. Flip the tots halfway through baking for even cooking. Selecting the right cheese makes a big difference. I recommend using cheddar or mozzarella for a melty texture. Cheddar gives a sharp flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. You can mix different cheeses for extra depth. Adding Parmesan cheese enhances the savory taste of your tots. Experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite combination. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure perfect tots. First, don’t skip squeezing out the zucchini. This is crucial for crispiness. Second, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each tot space to cook evenly. Finally, avoid using too much cheese. While cheese is tasty, too much can make the mixture too wet. Follow the Full Recipe closely for the best results. {{image_4}} You can make your cheesy zucchini tots even tastier by adding fresh herbs. Chopped basil, parsley, or dill can brighten the flavor. Try mixing in a teaspoon of dried thyme or oregano for a savory twist. If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This adds warmth and depth without overpowering the dish. Mixing in herbs can elevate your snack and make it more exciting. While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can switch it up. Try using goat cheese for a tangy kick. Feta cheese works well too, giving a crumbly texture. For a richer taste, consider using Gruyère or fontina. You can even combine different cheeses for a unique mix. Experimenting with different cheeses can make this dish your own and keep your family guessing. Want to make these tots vegan? It’s easy! Replace the egg with a flaxseed mixture. Just mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens. For cheese, try vegan mozzarella or nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. With these substitutions, you can enjoy cheesy zucchini tots that everyone can love. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To store leftover cheesy zucchini tots, first let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. When it’s time to eat your leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tots on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them crispy, just like when they were fresh out of the oven. To freeze your cheesy zucchini tots, let them cool after baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer for about one hour. Once frozen, transfer the tots to a freezer bag. They can last for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect crispiness. Yes, you can use frozen zucchini. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well. Frozen zucchini has more moisture, so it's crucial to squeeze out extra water. This step keeps your tots crispy and delicious. You can serve these tasty tots with many dips. Marinara sauce is a classic choice. Ranch dressing adds a nice touch too. You could also try a spicy aioli for a kick. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite! To make gluten-free zucchini tots, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers. Both options work well and keep your dish tasty. Just check the labels to ensure they are truly gluten-free. We explored how to make tasty zucchini tots. We covered essential ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for the best results. I shared ways to add flavor and stay crisp. You can adapt the recipe for vegan needs or storage. Remember, a little care goes a long way. Enjoy your healthy bites and impress others with your skills! Cooking is fun, and now you know how to make it better.

Cheesy Zucchini Tots

Savor the flavor with these cheesy zucchini tots, a delicious and easy snack perfect for any gathering! Made with fresh zucchini, melty cheese, and savory spices, these bites are baked to crispy perfection. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, they make a great appetizer or side dish. Click through to discover the full recipe and impress your family and friends with this irresistible treat!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, grated

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella for a melty texture)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for crunch or regular for softness)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a savory depth)

1 large egg (to bind the mixture)

2 green onions, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder (for an extra layer of flavor)

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)

Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing and added crispiness)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

    Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Transfer the grated zucchini to a clean kitchen towel and twist or squeeze firmly to remove excess moisture. This step is vital to ensure your tots remain perfectly crispy.

      In a large mixing bowl, add the squeezed zucchini, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped green onions, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula or spoon to mix these ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is uniform.

        With damp hands (to prevent sticking), take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small tot forms, roughly 1-2 inches long. Arrange the shaped tots on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring adequate space between each piece for even cooking.

          Lightly spray the tops of the tots with cooking spray or brush with olive oil, which will help them achieve a gorgeous golden brown color in the oven.

            Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the zucchini tots for 20-25 minutes, or until they are crisp and golden on the outside. Be sure to flip them halfway through the baking time to encourage even browning.

              Once they are done baking, carefully remove the zucchini tots from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the cheesy zucchini tots warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Accompany them with a small bowl of marinara or ranch dipping sauce on the side to enhance the flavor experience. Enjoy your delightful and cheesy creation!