Description
These crispy and flavorful Yellow Squash Tots are a healthy, delicious snack or side dish perfect for any meal. Made with fresh grated yellow squash, Parmesan cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs, they bake up golden and crisp without the need for frying. Easy to prepare and kid-friendly, these tots make a great way to enjoy vegetables with a tasty twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Squash Tot Ingredients
- 2 cups yellow squash, grated
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray or grease the paper to prevent sticking.
- Drain Squash: Place the grated yellow squash in a clean towel or cheesecloth, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt, and let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, squeeze out as much liquid as possible to avoid soggy tots.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained squash, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped parsley (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated, forming a sticky mixture.
- Form Tots: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into small tot-shaped logs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the tots with cooking spray or brush with a small amount of oil to promote crisping during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping the tots halfway through the baking time. Bake until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated squash to ensure crisp tots.
- Using panko breadcrumbs helps achieve a crispier texture, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
- Parsley is optional but adds a fresh flavor and color boost.
- These tots can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
- Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, especially for kids who might not typically enjoy vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
