zucchini tots

spaghetti squash and first monster zucchini


spaghetti squash


first step in using a monster zucchini, peel it. i think the peeling is gross and havent liked it on any zucchini i've ever eaten.


scrape the seeds out. i think the seeds and middle part are gross and havent liked that part on any zucchini i've ever eaten. its gets too mushy in contrast to the flesh of the zucchini. the difference in texture is what grosses me out. monster zucchini have PLENTY of flesh left behind when you scrape out the seeds. thats why i grow them to monster size instead of dainty little store sized ones. more of what i like, less of what i dislike.


with that much zucchini to shred, its best to use a food processor or you'll wear your arms out


this zucchini yielded 7 cups shredded


mixing up zucchini tots


drop by spoonful onto parchment paper


flip over halfway thru baking


they were crispy on the outside, but a little soft on the inside. i think i should have made them smaller, or flatter.


finished product


but that only used up 1 cup of zucchini. still had 6 cups left!


so i bagged it up, 2 cups each bag


and flattened the bags for better stacking/storage in the fridge


ZUCCHINI TOTS

(like a tater tot but with zucchini instead of potato)

Ingredients:
cooking spray
1 packed cup grated zucchini
1 large egg
1/4 medium onion, minced
1/4 cup grated reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese (i used regular cheddar cheese)
1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
1/4 tsp kosher salt and black pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. (i used parchment paper instead)

Grate the zucchini into a clean dish towel until you have 1 packed cup. Wring all of the excess water out of the zucchini, there will be a lot of water. In a medium bowl, combine all of the ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Spoon 1 tablespoon of mixture in your hands and roll into small ovals. Place on the cookie sheet and bake for 16 to 18 minutes, turning halfway though cooking until golden.

Makes about 12 tots, depending on how big you make them. dont make them too big.

http://www.skinnytaste.com/2012/07/zucchini-tots.html
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/335447872218494157/