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Air frying has surged in popularity as a healthier cooking method, allowing us to enjoy our favorite crispy snacks with significantly less oil. Among the myriad of options available, Zesty Air Fryer Zucchini and Cheese Tots stand out as a delightful choice that marries nutrition and flavor. These tasty morsels are not only easy to prepare but also serve as a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Zesty Air Fryer Zucchini and Cheese Tots

Crispy and cheesy zucchini tots made in an air fryer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 2.0 medium zucchini, grated
  • 1.0 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1.0 large egg, beaten
  • 2.0 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1.0 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1.0 spray cooking spray or olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Zucchini: Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, twist, and squeeze to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to ensure your tots are crispy.
  • Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, salt, flour, breadcrumbs, mozzarella, Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  • Shape the Tots: Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the zucchini mixture (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and shape them into small, round or oval tater-tot shapes. Place the shaped tots on a plate or a baking sheet.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Cook the Tots: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Arrange the zucchini tots in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
  • Air Fry: Cook the tots for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  • Serve: Once cooked, remove the tots from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.

Notes

Ensure to remove excess moisture from zucchini for better texture.
Keyword air fryer, appetizer, cheese, healthy, zucchini