Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are a delightful and healthy twist on traditional tater tots. These crunchy bites are not only baked instead of fried, but they also feature nutritious ingredients like zucchini and sweet potato. Perfect for parties, snacks, or side dishes, these tots are nut-free, paleo, and vegan-friendly. Whip them up in just 45 minutes and enjoy their delicious flavor at any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: These tots are baked rather than fried, making them a guilt-free snack option.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with only a few wholesome ingredients, they’re easy to prepare.
• Kid-Friendly: The fun shape and tasty flavors make them a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces or as a side dish to complement any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Grater
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Provides an even surface for cooking the tots while allowing space for air circulation to achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Grater: Ensures the zucchini is grated finely enough for proper mixing and texture in the tots.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps combine all ingredients thoroughly to achieve that perfect consistency.

Ingredients

For the 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 parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

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

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, cooked mashed sweet potato, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and coconut flour. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Form Tots

Using your hands, form tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture into tot shapes. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake

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

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious treat!

How to Serve Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are versatile and can be paired with various dips and sides for a delicious meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Avocado Dip: Creamy avocado blended with lime juice makes for a refreshing dip.
• Hummus: The nutty flavor of hummus complements the sweetness of the tots beautifully.
• Salsa: A zesty salsa adds a burst of flavor and freshness to each bite.
• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice, ranch dressing offers a creamy contrast to the crispy texture.

As a Snack

• On-the-Go: Pack them in a lunchbox for a healthy snack that’s easy to eat anywhere.
• Game Day Treats: Serve them during game day gatherings as a healthier alternative to traditional snacks.

In a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss these tots into a fresh salad for added texture and flavor.
• Quinoa Salad: Combine with quinoa, black beans, and corn for a protein-packed meal.

How to Perfect Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

To achieve the best results with your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, follow these simple tips that will enhance their flavor and texture.

• Boldly squeeze out moisture: Ensure you remove excess water from the zucchini; this helps the tots hold their shape and become crispy.
• Boldly use fresh ingredients: Fresh zucchinis and sweet potatoes will yield better flavor than canned or frozen options.
• Boldly season generously: Don’t hesitate to adjust the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
• Boldly bake until golden: Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be slightly golden brown for that perfect crispiness.
• Boldly chill before baking: If you have time, refrigerating the formed tots for 30 minutes can help them firm up before baking.

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 great options that complement their flavors well.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil provide a hearty companion full of flavor.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: For sweet potato lovers, baked sweet potato fries offer a delightful contrast in texture.
4. Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich salad made with chickpeas, cucumber, and lemon dressing pairs wonderfully.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances out the sweetness of the tots while adding crunch.
6. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad brings natural sweetness and brightness to your plate.
7. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A cool dip made from yogurt and cucumbers is refreshing alongside warm tots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can help you make the best Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring moisture: Failing to squeeze out excess moisture from zucchini can lead to soggy tots. Always remove as much liquid as possible before mixing.

• Using too much flour: Adding more coconut flour than the recipe calls for can make the tots dense and heavy. Stick to the specified amount for the best texture.

• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect cooking time and the final product’s texture. Always preheat your oven before baking.

• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to add seasonings like salt and garlic powder results in bland tots. Season well for enhanced flavor.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many tots on a single tray can cause uneven cooking. Space them out for even browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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. For best results, freeze them in a single layer before transferring them into a container.

Reheating Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C/350F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a non-stick pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots:

How do I make Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots crispy?

To achieve crispiness, ensure you properly squeeze out moisture from the zucchini and avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with carrots or cauliflower alongside sweet potatoes and zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Are these tots suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are perfect for meal prep. Just store them properly and reheat when needed.

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

These tots go wonderfully with hummus, salsa, or your favorite vegan ranch dressing.

Can I bake these without coconut flour?

Coconut flour helps bind the mixture; however, you can substitute with almond flour or oat flour if preferred.

Final Thoughts

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different spices or vegetables based on your taste preferences. Encourage your family and friends to try this healthy snack alternative that everyone will love!