Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are a delicious and healthy snack that everyone will love! These veggie tater tots are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they can be served as a side dish or a fun appetizer. With just three simple ingredients, these tots are baked instead of fried, making them a guilt-free treat. Enjoy them at parties, family gatherings, or as a wholesome snack during the day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 45 minutes, including prep time!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Made with zucchini and sweet potatoes for a healthy twist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy on their own.
• Diet-Friendly: Suitable for paleo, vegan, and nut-free diets.
• Kid-Approved: A fun way to sneak in veggies for picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, you’ll need a few essential tools that help simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Baking paper
• Grater
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Provides even heat distribution while baking the tots.
• Baking paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Grater: Efficiently shreds zucchini to the perfect texture for the mixture.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of all ingredients before shaping.

Ingredients

To create these tasty Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables

• Grated zucchinis: 2 (about 250g)

Base

• Cooked mashed sweet potato: 1 cup/ 250g

Seasonings

• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Sea salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon

Binder

• Coconut flour: 2 tablespoons

How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 160C/350F. Line a baking tray with baking paper to prepare for baking the tots.

Step 2: Squeeze Out Moisture

Use your hands to squeeze out all the moisture from the grated zucchini. This step is crucial for achieving crispy tots.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, cooked mashed sweet potato, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and coconut flour. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 4: Shape the Tots

Form tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture into small tot shapes. Place each tot onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until they turn slightly golden brown.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy your delicious Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots!

How to Serve Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be paired with a variety of dips and sides to create a delightful meal or snack. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your veggie tater tots experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Avocado Dip: Creamy and rich, this dip adds a fresh flavor that complements the sweetness of the tots.
• Spicy Mayo: A mix of mayonnaise and sriracha offers a tangy kick, perfect for those who enjoy heat.
• Classic Ketchup: A beloved favorite, ketchup is always a hit for both kids and adults.
• Hummus: This protein-packed dip brings a nutty taste that pairs wonderfully with the veggie ingredients.

As Part of a Platter

• Veggie Platter: Serve your baked tots alongside fresh carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful presentation.
• Cheese Board: Include your tots with assorted cheeses and crackers for a fun appetizer spread.

In a Wrap

• Tortilla Wrap: Add baked sweet potato zucchini tots in a whole grain tortilla with greens and your favorite sauce for a filling meal.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, wrap them in lettuce leaves with some diced veggies.

How to Perfect Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

To achieve the best texture and flavor from your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly squeeze out moisture: Make sure to remove as much liquid from the grated zucchini as possible to prevent sogginess.
• Boldly use fresh ingredients: Fresh zucchinis and sweet potatoes enhance the overall taste of the tots.
• Boldly experiment with spices: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor depth.
• Boldly monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the tots as they bake; slightly golden brown is ideal for perfect crispiness.
• Boldly cool before serving: Let them cool for a few minutes after baking to ensure they hold their shape when you serve them.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options you might enjoy.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender enhances the meal’s nutritional value.
2. Quinoa Salad: This light salad with herbs and lemon dressing provides added freshness and protein.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances out the soft sweetness of the tots.
4. Brown Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf complements the dish while being hearty enough to satisfy hunger.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: For those who love sweet potatoes, crispy sweet potato fries make an excellent companion.
7. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar brings brightness to your plate.

With these serving ideas and side dish suggestions, you’ll enjoy every bite of your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect moisture removal – Failing to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini can lead to soggy tots. Always ensure you drain the zucchini well.
• Not measuring ingredients – Using too much or too little of key ingredients can affect the texture. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Skipping seasoning – Neglecting spices like garlic powder and salt may result in bland flavor. Don’t skip on seasoning to elevate taste.
• Overcrowding the baking tray – Placing too many tots on one tray can cause steaming instead of baking. Give them enough space for even cooking.
• Inaccurate oven temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt tots. Use an oven thermometer if necessary for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

• Place cooled tots in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

• Oven – Preheat to 180C/350F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes; check frequently so they don’t become soggy.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots that might help you.

How do I make Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots crispy?

To achieve a crispy texture, make sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini and ensure your oven is preheated properly before baking.

Can I customize my Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots?

Absolutely! You can mix in herbs, spices, or even cheese if you’re not strictly vegan. Experiment with flavors that you love!

What dipping sauces pair well with Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots?

These tots go well with various sauces like ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli. Choose your favorite!

Are Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots suitable for kids?

Yes! These veggie tots are kid-friendly and make a great healthy snack or side dish. They are perfect for baby-led weaning too!

Final Thoughts

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are not only healthy but also delicious and versatile. You can easily customize them with different spices or dips to suit your tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a nutritious snack that everyone will love!