Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Healthy and delicious, Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are the perfect snack or side dish for any occasion. These veggie tater tots combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the freshness of zucchini, resulting in a tasty treat that’s baked instead of fried. They’re nut-free, paleo, and vegan-friendly, making them suitable for everyone from toddlers to adults. Enjoy these nutritious bites at parties, picnics, or as a quick weeknight side!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up these tots in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of sweet potato and zucchini creates a delightful taste that will please your palate.
• Versatile: Serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a healthy snack throughout the day.
• Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, these tots offer a wholesome alternative to traditional potato products.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the fun shape and delicious flavor, making it easier to sneak in those veggies!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, gather some essential tools that will make the process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Baking paper
• Grater
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Provides a solid surface for baking and helps achieve an even cook on your tots.
• Grating tool: Ensures even-sized zucchini pieces which are crucial for consistent texture in your tots.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots:

• 2 (about 250g) grated zucchinis
• 1 cup/ 250g cooked mashed sweet potato
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons coconut flour

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. This will help prevent sticking and ensure an even bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Use your hands to squeeze out all the moisture from the grated zucchini. This step is crucial to avoid soggy tots.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the prepared zucchini with the mashed sweet potato. Add garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and coconut flour. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 4: Form Tots

With clean hands, take tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and shape them into small tot forms. Place each tot on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake

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

Step 6: Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your healthy Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots!

How to Serve Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a side dish, these veggie tots pair well with many flavors and sauces.

With Dipping Sauces

• Hummus – Creamy hummus adds a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the tots.
• Avocado Dip – A smooth avocado dip brings a fresh twist to your serving.
• Ketchup – The classic choice, ketchup provides a tangy contrast to the sweet potato and zucchini.

As a Side Dish

• Salad – Serve alongside a crisp salad for a refreshing meal that balances flavors and textures.
• Wraps – Add baked tots to your favorite wraps for an extra crunch and nutrition boost.

In a Bowl

• Grain Bowl – Create a hearty grain bowl by adding cooked quinoa or brown rice, topped with baked tots and your favorite veggies.
• Soup – Pair with a warm bowl of soup for a cozy meal; they make a great addition to tomato or vegetable soup.

How to Perfect Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Perfecting your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots takes just a few simple tips. These suggestions will help enhance their flavor and texture.

• Boldly Squeeze Moisture – Removing excess moisture from zucchini ensures crispy tots instead of soggy ones.
• Boldly Measure Ingredients – Accurate measurements lead to the perfect consistency in your mixture, helping them hold shape while baking.
• Boldly Preheat the Oven – Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature for even cooking and browning.
• Boldly Use Parchment Paper – Lining your baking tray with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with several sides. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – A nutritious green side that adds color and health benefits.
2. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots complement the flavors of the tots perfectly.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds protein and enhances the meal’s overall nutrition.
4. Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm tots.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – For sweet potato lovers, fries are a great way to stick with the theme!
6. Cucumber Salad – A cool cucumber salad is refreshing and balances out the warmth of baked tots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure perfect Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, be mindful of these common mistakes.

• Not squeezing excess moisture: Failing to remove moisture from the zucchini can lead to soggy tots. Always squeeze out as much water as possible before mixing.
• Ignoring ingredient proportions: Using the wrong amounts of key ingredients may affect the texture and flavor. Stick to the recipe for best results!
• Overcrowding the baking tray: Placing too many tots on a single tray can cause uneven cooking. Space them out to allow proper airflow.
• Skipping preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in undercooked tots. Always preheat your oven to the specified temperature.
• Not letting them cool slightly before serving: Serving immediately may burn your mouth. Allow them to cool for a few minutes for a better tasting experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C/350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat for 30-60 seconds, but they may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots?

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are healthy veggie snacks made with grated zucchini and mashed sweet potato, baked instead of fried.

How do I serve Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots?

They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ketchup, avocado dip, or hummus. Get creative with your favorite flavors!

Can I customize my Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots?

Absolutely! You can add herbs, spices, or even cheese for extra flavor. Try different combinations based on your preferences.

Are Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots suitable for kids?

Yes! These tots are nutritious and kid-friendly. They make a great addition to lunchboxes or snack time.

How do I know when my tots are ready?

Look for a slight golden brown color and a firm texture. They should be crispy on the outside and tender inside when done.

Final Thoughts

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding different spices or veggies based on what you have at home. They make a perfect healthy snack or side dish that everyone will enjoy!