Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Recipe: A Healthy, Crunchy Snack 🥒🍽️
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional tots, this Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots recipe is a must-try! These tots are crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with nutritious yellow squash. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, they’re a great way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and delicious form. Let’s jump right into this simple and tasty recipe that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients 🛒
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create these crispy yellow squash tots. Simple, healthy, and full of flavor!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Yellow squash (grated) | 2 medium |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Olive oil (for drizzling) | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
Time & Servings ⏱️
| Time | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 (as an appetizer) |
Step-by-Step Guide 🍽️
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the tots from sticking.
2. Grate the Yellow Squash
Wash the yellow squash and cut off the ends. Using a grater or food processor, grate the squash finely. You can also lightly squeeze the grated squash in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps make the tots crispy.
3. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated squash, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed, but not be too wet.
4. Form the Tots
Using your hands or a spoon, scoop small portions of the squash mixture and shape them into little oval-shaped tots. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each tot.
5. Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops of the tots for extra crispiness. You can use a brush or just drizzle it directly from the bottle.
6. Bake the Tots
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You may want to flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness.
7. Serve
Once the tots are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, sriracha mayo, or a tangy yogurt dip.
Recipe Notes 📋
- Make them ahead: You can form the tots and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Vegetarian Option: These tots are vegetarian-friendly and can be easily adapted for a vegan diet by using a flax egg or other egg substitutes.
- For Extra Crispiness: If you want an extra crunchy exterior, consider using seasoned breadcrumbs or adding more Parmesan cheese to the mixture.
Time and Servings ⏱️
| Time | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 (as an appetizer) |
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving) 🍴
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
These Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with other dishes. Here are some great serving ideas:
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh, crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- As a Side Dish: Pair these tots with grilled chicken, burgers, or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.
- With Dips: Enjoy these tots with a variety of dips, such as ranch, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
- In a Snack Platter: Add them to a platter of appetizers for parties or game day gatherings.
“If you’re looking for more fun and easy appetizer recipes, try these Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls – they’re a hit at any party!
Storage & Reheating 🏠
- Storage: Store leftover tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked tots. Let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat frozen or refrigerated tots in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until crispy. You can also microwave them, but they won’t be as crispy.
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect 🔥
- Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Grate the squash and then squeeze out any excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel. This helps prevent the tots from becoming soggy.
- Use Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will give you a richer flavor compared to the pre-shredded version.
- Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy twist.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Tots: Make sure there is space between each tot on the baking sheet to allow air circulation and ensure they bake evenly.
Health Benefits of Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots 🌱
- Low in Calories: These tots are a lighter snack option compared to traditional fried tots, making them a good choice for those watching their calorie intake.
- High in Fiber: Yellow squash is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.
- Rich in Nutrients: Squash is a great source of vitamins like Vitamin A, C, and several B vitamins, helping to support your immune system and eye health.
Common Mistakes to Avoid 🚫
- Not Draining the Squash: Failing to drain excess moisture from the squash can result in soggy tots.
- Overcrowding the Tots on the Baking Sheet: If the tots are too close together, they won’t crisp up properly.
- Skipping the Egg: The egg helps bind the ingredients together, so don’t skip this step for the best texture.
FAQs ❓
1. Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Yes! Zucchini works just as well as yellow squash in this recipe. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly after grating.
2. Can I bake these without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative if needed. The texture might change slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.
3. Can I make these tots in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fryers are perfect for making crispy tots. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. How can I make these tots spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even some hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy twist.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the tots ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts 🌟
These Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots are a fun and healthy way to enjoy more vegetables. With a crunchy exterior and soft interior, they make the perfect snack, side dish, or appetizer. Easy to make, customizable, and great for meal prep, these tots are sure to be a hit in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy this flavorful, veggie-packed treat!
