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Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots
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Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are golden, crispy bites that combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the fresh earthiness of zucchini. These healthy, hearty, and easy-to-make tots are perfect as a nourishing snack, appetizer, or side dish, offering a delightful balance of flavor and texture without deep frying. Customizable and suitable for various diets, they are an ideal treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 cups mashed)
  • 1 medium zucchini (grated and squeezed dry)
  • 1 cup fine breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
  • 1 large egg (or flax/chia seed egg for vegan)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Variations

  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for cheesy upgrade)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (for spicy kick)
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil (1-2 tablespoons, finely chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons cooked bacon bits or finely chopped chicken (for protein boost)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and boil the sweet potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them well. Meanwhile, grate the zucchini and squeeze out all excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to prevent sogginess.
  2. Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes and squeezed zucchini. Add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Add any optional ingredients if desired.
  3. Shape the Tots: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized cylinders or balls, roughly the size of a walnut. Arrange them with some space on a parchment-lined baking sheet for even cooking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the tots for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even crispiness. They are ready once they turn light golden and have a firm, crispy texture.

Notes

  • Remove moisture well: Thoroughly squeezing zucchini prevents watery tots.
  • Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Leave space between tots for crispiness.
  • Use cold mashed sweet potatoes: Warm potatoes may make shaping difficult.
  • Opt for fine breadcrumbs: They bind the mixture better and create a crisp crust.
  • Add seasoning gradually: Adjust salt and spices after mixing to perfect flavor balance.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato tots, zucchini tots, baked tots, healthy snack, gluten free appetizer, vegetable snacks, party appetizers

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/baked-sweet-potato-zucchini-tots/