Description of this recipe: These Greek Zucchini Tots are a delightful twist on traditional fritters, offering a healthier and more flavorful alternative to potato-based versions. Packed with the goodness of zucchini, the tang of feta cheese, and aromatic herbs, these little bites are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish. Baked to golden perfection, they boast a crispy exterior and a soft, savory interior that will leave you craving more.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll adore these Greek Zucchini Tots for their simplicity and versatility. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and readily available ingredients. The combination of zucchini, feta, and oregano creates an authentic Mediterranean flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, baking them instead of frying makes them a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy any time. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a nutritious snack for your kids, or a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, these tots are the answer. Their vibrant taste and appealing texture make them a hit with both adults and children alike.
Ingredients:
| Cups | Metric |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | |
| 1 lb / 500 g zucchinis (courgettes) | |
| 1/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt | |
| Batter | |
| 1/2 cup plain flour (all-purpose flour), can sub gluten-free flour | |
| 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (Note 1), can sub gluten-free flour | |
| 2 eggs | |
| 3/4 cup green onion , finely sliced (white and pale green parts only) | |
| 1/2 cup parmesan cheese , finely grated (I use store bought sandy type), can also use shredded cheddar or tasty cheese | |
| 1 tbsp dried oregano (or 2 teaspoon other dried herbs) | |
| 2 garlic cloves , minced | |
| 1/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt | |
| 150 g / 5 oz Greek feta cheese , crumbled | |
| Cooking and serving | |
| Olive oil spray | |
| Lemon wedges and oregano leaves , optional garnishes | |
| Minted Yoghurt (optional) | |
| 3/4 cup plain Greek yoghurt , or any plain unsweetened yogurt | |
| 1 tbsp fresh mint , finely chopped | |
| 1/2 tbsp lemon juice | |
| 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or more) | |
| 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper |
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Begin by grating the zucchini using a standard box grater. Place the grated zucchini into a large colander. Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of cooking salt or kosher salt over the zucchini. Toss the zucchini with your fingers to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. This helps draw out excess moisture from the zucchini. Let it sit and sweat for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for preventing soggy tots.
Step 2: Squeeze Out Excess Liquid After 30 minutes, the zucchini will have released a significant amount of liquid. Working a handful at a time, squeeze out as much of the excess water as you can. You can use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to do this. The drier the zucchini, the better the texture of the tots. Place the squeezed zucchini in a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter In the mixing bowl with the squeezed zucchini, add ½ cup of plain flour (all-purpose flour). If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute with gluten-free flour. Add 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs provide a light and crispy texture. If needed, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Crack in 2 eggs. Add ¾ cup of green onion, finely sliced (use only the white and pale green parts). Add ½ cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese. You can use store-bought sandy-type Parmesan or substitute with shredded cheddar or tasty cheese for a different flavor. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of dried oregano. You can also use 2 teaspoons of other dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for variation. Mince 2 garlic cloves and add them to the bowl. Add ¼ teaspoon of cooking salt or kosher salt.
Step 4: Combine and Form the Tots Mix all the ingredients in the bowl thoroughly to combine. Ensure that the batter is evenly distributed throughout the zucchini. Gently fold in 150g / 5 oz of crumbled Greek feta cheese. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the feta pieces intact. Preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F (180°C fan-forced). Line two baking trays with baking paper or parchment paper. Using a spoon or your hands, dollop heaped tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking trays. You should get around 29 tots in total. Use your fingers to shape each dollop into a cylinder, resembling tater-tots or potato gems.
Step 5: Bake the Tots Generously spray the shaped tots with olive oil spray. This will help them achieve a golden and crunchy crust. Bake for 30 minutes, swapping the trays at around 20 minutes. This ensures even baking. For an extra golden color and crunch, spray the tots again with olive oil halfway through baking. Continue baking until the tots are golden brown and a crunchy crust forms on the surface. The tray on the bottom shelf might need a few extra minutes.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions: Serve the Greek Zucchini Tots warm, with a side of Minted Yogurt (recipe below). Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh oregano leaves, if desired. These tots are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes.
Tips:
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent soggy tots.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking trays. Bake in batches if necessary.
- For a crispier texture, broil the tots for the last few minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- These tots can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
- Experiment with different cheeses and herbs to customize the flavor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes) Calories: Approximately 80-100 per tot Protein: 4-6 grams per tot Sodium: 100-150mg per tot
Minted Yoghurt (optional): To make the Minted Yoghurt, mix together ¾ cup of plain Greek yoghurt (or any plain unsweetened yogurt), 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint, ½ tablespoon of lemon juice, ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil (or more, to taste), and ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine. Set aside for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This refreshing yogurt dip perfectly complements the savory zucchini tots.
Conclusion: These Greek Zucchini Tots are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean. Easy to make and customizable to your liking, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these little fritters are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness of these baked zucchini tots and elevate your snacking experience!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Question 1: Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Answer: While it’s best to use fresh zucchini for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen zucchini in a pinch. However, it’s crucial to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before using it in the recipe. Frozen zucchini tends to be much wetter than fresh, so you may need to add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs to the batter to achieve the right consistency.
Question 2: Can I make these tots ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, you can definitely make these tots ahead of time. Prepare them as directed, bake them until golden brown, and then let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in an air fryer until heated through and crispy.
Question 3: What can I substitute for feta cheese if I don’t have any?
Answer: If you don’t have feta cheese on hand, you can substitute it with other cheeses that offer a similar tangy and salty flavor. Good alternatives include goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a sharp cheddar cheese. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different, but the tots will still be delicious.
Question 4: Can I add any other vegetables to these tots?
Answer: Absolutely! These zucchini tots are very versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables to boost their nutritional value and flavor. Some great additions include grated carrots, finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even corn kernels. Just be sure to adjust the amount of flour or breadcrumbs accordingly to maintain the right consistency of the batter.
Question 5: Are these tots suitable for freezing?
Answer: Yes, these tots are freezer-friendly. After baking, let them cool completely and then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy.
