Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are a delightful and healthy snack option that everyone will enjoy. These veggie tater tots are not only baked, making them a lighter choice, but they also feature a simple blend of sweet potatoes and zucchini. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just as a tasty side dish, these tots are nut-free, paleo-friendly, and vegan. Their crunchy exterior and soft interior create an irresistible texture that pairs well with your favorite dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these delicious tots in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies like zucchini and sweet potatoes, these tots offer plenty of vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Snack: Serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or snack—great for both kids and adults!
• Diet-Friendly: Suitable for a variety of dietary preferences including vegan and paleo diets.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The crispy texture and savory flavors make these tots a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To create Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, you will need some essential kitchen tools that simplify the process. Having the right equipment makes cooking enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Baking paper
• Grater
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Provides a sturdy base for placing your tots while they bake evenly in the oven.
• Baking paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
• Grater: Allows you to quickly prepare the zucchini for mixing without hassle.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly to create the perfect mixture.

Ingredients

Healthy veggie tater tots that are BAKED instead of fried, and are made with just 3 key ingredients including zucchini and sweet potato! They are nut free, paleo, and vegan friendly.

Vegetables

• 2 (about 250g) grated zucchinis
• 1 cup/ 250g cooked mashed sweet potato

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Binding Agent

• 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 to prevent sticking.

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 with the mashed sweet potato, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and coconut flour. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Form the Tots

Take tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and form them into small tot shapes. Place each tot onto the lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake

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

Step 6: Serve

Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious 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 many ways. Whether you want a light snack or a side dish, these tasty tots can complement various meals. Here are some serving suggestions that elevate their flavor and presentation.

With Dipping Sauces

• Avocado Dip: Creamy and rich, this dip pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors of the tots.
• Zesty Salsa: A tangy salsa adds a fresh kick that balances the sweetness of the sweet potato.
• Garlic Aioli: This garlicky sauce enhances the savory notes of the tots for an irresistible combination.

As a Side Dish

• Paired with Grilled Chicken: Serve these tots alongside grilled chicken for a healthy meal packed with protein.
• With a Salad: A fresh garden salad complements the baked tots, adding crunch and vibrant flavors.
• Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies enhance the overall nutritional value and make for a colorful plate.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

• Veggie Wrap: Add baked sweet potato zucchini tots to your favorite wrap for added texture and flavor.
• In a Pita Pocket: Stuff them into pita pockets with greens for a quick and satisfying meal that’s easy to eat on the go.

How to Perfect Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

To ensure your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly squeeze moisture from zucchini: Removing excess moisture ensures your tots will be crispy instead of soggy.
• Boldly use parchment paper: Lining your baking tray prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Boldly preheat your oven: Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature promotes even cooking and browning of the tots.
• Boldly shape uniformly: Forming all tots to the same size helps them cook evenly, leading to consistent texture throughout.
• Boldly experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust seasonings or add new spices for unique flavor profiles tailored to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots can pair well with many side dishes. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs provides a nutritious balance.
2. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower adds crunch and richness, making it an ideal sidekick to the tots.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings vibrant color and essential nutrients to your meal without overpowering flavors.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime creates a zesty backdrop that complements the sweetness of the tots.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: For sweet potato lovers, adding crispy baked fries will enhance the theme while maintaining a health-conscious approach.
6. Cucumber Raita: This yogurt-based dip offers coolness and creaminess, perfect for balancing out the baked flavors in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots can be simple, but a few common mistakes might affect the final product. Here are some tips to ensure your tots turn out perfect every time.

• Not squeezing out moisture: Failing to remove excess moisture from the zucchini can lead to soggy tots. Always squeeze the grated zucchini well before mixing.
• Using too much coconut flour: Adding more than the recommended amount can result in dry tots. Stick to 2 tablespoons for the best texture.
• Inadequate baking time: Underbaking your tots may leave them soft and unappealing. Bake them until they are golden brown for a crispy exterior.
• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting spices like garlic powder, salt, and pepper can make your tots bland. Don’t skip these essential flavors!
• Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on a tray can cause sticking. Always line your baking tray with parchment paper for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

• Place cooled tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C/ 350F and bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat for about 1-2 minutes, but be aware that they might lose their crispiness.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, here are some common questions answered.

Can I make Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and form the tots. Just store them in the fridge before baking.

How do I know when my Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are done?

They should be slightly golden brown and firm to touch when baked properly.

Can I customize my Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs or spices of your choice for extra flavor, such as paprika or Italian seasoning.

Are Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots suitable for kids?

Yes! These healthy veggie tater tots are great for kids and perfect as a fun snack or side dish.

Final Thoughts

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are an excellent healthy alternative to traditional tater tots. With just three main ingredients, they are not only tasty but also versatile. Customize them with different spices or herbs according to your taste preferences. Try them today—your family will love this nutritious twist on a classic favorite!